This weekend, congressional members from a major advocacy organization began their cross-country campaign tour in Phoenix, emphasizing the importance of voter participation in upcoming elections.
The rally in Arizona's third district on Sunday was the first stop on what organizers called their "Won't Back Down Tour," which seeks to engage voters in multiple states. Phoenix's selection as the starting point reflects strategic focus on competitive areas where voter outreach efforts may prove influential.
Representative Yassamin Ansari shared her story with attendees. At 32, she described her election as unexpected, given her background as a child of refugees from an oppressive government overseas.
Yassamin Ansari recalled her early aspirations, which she joked ranged between running for president and studying fashion design. She also mentioned that she had coordinated other children during break periods in primary school. However, her perspective on political engagement was influenced by her family's experience as immigrants and the discrimination they encountered.
"Identifying with an ethnicity and a background that has been discriminated against for decades in this country. I did not grow up seeing people who looked like me or with my family story in Congress," she expressed.
Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas joined Ansari emphasizing the value of preserving political hope in difficult situations. She made analogies to past instances of political revolution in the United States, specifically bringing up former Texas Congresswoman Barbara Jordan.
During the presidential impeachment process, Jasmine Crockett cited Jordan's legal knowledge and moral position, pointing out that there used to be bipartisan cooperation on issues of governmental accountability.
"I am here to tell you that there are real people. Real people that care and love this country. Real people that you have never met and they will never meet you, but they will fight for you.” Crockett was speaking to the crowd.
Despite acknowledging that she has received threats because of her political ideas, Representative Crockett reaffirmed her dedication to advocating for individuals she may never meet in person.
One section of the advocacy group is devoted to candidate support and electoral activity, while the other is focused on policy advancement and cultural change. Rahna Epting, Executive Director, is in charge of both divisions.
Epting has prior experience working with labor union political programs and groups dedicated to promoting democracy. She has managed voter engagement campaigns and lobbied federal officials on topics related to childcare funding and employment development.
Adam Mockler of the digital media firm MeidasTouch, who hosted the rally, noted the wide age range of participants who came together in support of common political goals.
The organization has been building infrastructure for sustained political activity and aligning itself with broader coalition movements since the previous presidential election. Past campaigns have addressed social justice issues, healthcare policy, and military conflicts.
The Arizona event indicates the organization's plan to continue its advocacy work while building prolonged networks for long-term political engagement.
