Partnership to provide rising Democratic stars with political backing, leadership development, and governing support to advance center-left vision for the country

For Immediate Release:

DATE:  March 31, 2025

CONTACT: Jonathan Dworkin, The NewDEAL, [email protected]

Washington, D.C. – NewDEAL Leaders – a selective network of center-left state and local Democrats – and The Next 50 — an organization that identifies and invests in 50 next-generation candidates every cycle — today announced a landmark partnership that will cultivate the next generation of exceptional Democratic talent. The investment in rising Democratic leaders will ensure the Party develops and supports strong candidates and elected officials, pursues effective policies in ways that lead to political success, and connects with voters in every zip code as these leaders prepare for the 2026 election cycle and beyond.

By leveraging their combined expertise and expansive leadership networks, NewDEAL and The Next 50 will build a robust Democratic talent pipeline by combining The Next 50’s electoral backing and campaign tools with the network, policy, and skills support that NewDEAL provides, ensuring candidates are equipped to win elections and deliver meaningful progress at the local, state, and national levels. The strategic partnership will also create a pathway for rising Democratic stars to share transformative policy ideas, access leadership development opportunities in communications and other areas, and receive the support they need to excel in their public service careers.

The Next 50 and NewDEAL have a strong history of identifying early and supporting Democrats who have risen to national prominence. For example, both organizations have worked with U.S. Senator Ruben Gallego (AZ), U.S. Representative Sarah McBride (DE), U.S. Representative Janelle Bynum (OR), and Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow. One in four NewDEAL Leaders goes on to not only run for but to win higher office.

Key outcomes of the strategic partnership include: 

• Leader Identification and Support: Vet, endorse, and provide political and policy support to emerging leaders who have a shared vision and values.
• Integrated Leadership Development Programming: Leaders will gain access to both organizations’ networks, policy resources, skill building, and national convenings.
• Resource Sharing and Mentorship: Leaders will benefit from shared access to best practice handbooks, policy briefings, training materials, and mentorship opportunities that will enhance their ability to govern effectively.
• Commitment to Long-Term Development: Participants in The Next 50’s Candidate Leadership Development Program (CLDP) who meet NewDEAL’s criteria will be integrated into the NewDEAL network, ensuring a continuous pipeline of talent ready to take on the most pressing challenges of our time – including the cost of living, affordability, and accessible healthcare.

“The time for building our bench with talented, next-generation leaders who can win tough races is now—not tomorrow, not next year. As both a state senator and a long-time NewDEAL Leader myself, and leader of The Next 50, I’ve seen how our organizations support elected officials who deliver practical solutions,” said Zach Wahls, Executive Director of The Next 50. “This partnership is an urgent and necessary response to our country’s need for pragmatic, reform-minded leaders who can win tough races and effectively govern once in office. In this critical moment, we need leaders focused on fixing broken systems and who champion policies that expand economic opportunity for all Americans. This is precisely what our partnership will deliver.”

“At a time when the future of our democracy depends on strong, capable leadership, we must do everything we can to build Democratic talent in communities across the country,” said Debbie Cox Bultan, CEO of NewDEAL. “Our partnership with The Next 50 is about ensuring these rising stars have the tools, mentorship, and policy expertise they need to deliver real solutions for their communities on the issues that unite us – like affordability, accessible healthcare, and quality education. By investing in this next generation of center-left leaders, we can strengthen the Democratic Party’s ability to compete, govern, and drive meaningful change in 2026 and beyond.”

“As both a NewDEAL Leader and a member of The Next 50’s Leadership Council, I’ve experienced firsthand the tremendous value each organization brings to developing effective public servants,” said Congresswoman Sarah McBride (D-DE). “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter that combines NewDEAL’s policy expertise with TN50’s talent pipeline. What makes this collaboration special is its focus on pragmatic problem-solvers who prioritize practical solutions—state and local leaders committed to addressing the everyday issues that impact Americans’ everyday lives. Together, we’re building a bench of leaders who can rebuild trust in government, connect with voters across the political spectrum, and deliver meaningful results for their communities.”  

“This partnership between NewDEAL and The Next 50 is a game changer for building the next generation of Democratic leaders who can advance innovative solutions and tackle the nation’s most pressing challenges,” said U.S. Representative Janelle Bynum (OR-05). “Now more than ever, Americans need leaders who can make real progress on costs and jobs, on healthcare and housing, and on making sure all of our kids receive a quality education. Together, the NewDEAL and The Next 50 are playing a key role in supporting Democratic lawmakers who share a bold vision to deliver that progress.”

“Our party is in need of a new generation of leadership, and the partnership between The Next 50 and NewDEAL will build the deep bench of Democratic talent needed to deliver meaningful progress and win competitive races,” said Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow. “I’ve been a member of both of these organizations for years now, and to see the two of them team up is nothing but a recipe for success. They’re at the forefront of identifying, preparing, and supporting common sense Democratic leaders who will deliver a better future for Americans everywhere, and I’m excited to see the impact of them formally coming together.”

About NewDEAL

The NewDEAL is a selective center-left network of state and local elected leaders from across the nation. Our mission is to scour the country to lift up the best and brightest elected officials who are pragmatic and get results – including council members, county executives, mayors, state legislators, and state-wide leaders below the level of governor. Many go on to higher office at the federal, state, and local levels. The network promotes their ideas for expanding opportunity, spurring economic growth, and creating broadly shared, sustainable progress.

About The Next 50

The Next 50 was founded in 2019 to build a stronger and more representative democracy. They do so by investing in 50 next-generation candidates every cycle, 50 years and under, up and down the ballot in swing districts and states. To support this work, they are building a next-generation donor network that centers civic and political philanthropy in their giving strategy. Since their launch, they have raised over $12 million and those who they have introduced to political giving have invested millions more in the movement. Through the leaders they invest in and the donor community they grow, they plan to build strong and sustainable leadership representative of communities for decades to come.

For Immediate Release:

DATE:  March 5, 2025

CONTACT: Jonathan Dworkin, The NewDEAL, [email protected]

Washington, D.C. – NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan issued the following statement on President Trump’s joint address to Congress:

“Last November, voters sent a clear message that they want elected leaders focused squarely on building an economy that works for them and making the cost of living more affordable.

“Yet President Trump continues to make clear that he has ignored those pleas, opting instead for a reckless approach to governing – slashing government to the bone, launching a trade war, and seeking to pay for deficit-busting tax cuts for the wealthy by taking away people’s health care.

“NewDEAL state and local elected leaders across the country have described Trump’s first few weeks in office as ‘absolute chaos.’ They have witnessed the real impacts of the assault on federal workers, 80 percent of whom live outside the DC area, and have shared stories of constituents like veterans losing jobs and access to hard-earned benefits and Head Start centers that have not received promised federal funds to keep their doors open for child care.

“Sadly, President Trump’s address to Congress doubled down on the chaos of his first month in office, promising Americans more hardship than hope.

“In light of this irresponsible leadership, Democrats have a critical task ahead: demonstrating to the American people that we are the party that will deliver meaningful progress on the issues that matter the most, starting with the economy.

“To set a national agenda, Democrats should look to the example of state and local leaders who prioritize building communities where everyday families can thrive. They are investing in affordable housing and child care, supporting well-paid jobs in areas like clean energy, and creating pathways for students to successful careers.

“Americans shouldn’t have to choose between big government and no government—they want effective government. Democrats must show how smart, competent governance helps build prosperous, safe, and stable communities for all Americans.

“Despite the divisive rhetoric of President Trump, NewDEAL will continue to press forward with a forward-looking agenda, showing the American people what real leadership looks like and what real government effectiveness and efficiency can accomplish.”

NewDEAL Leaders is a selective national network of rising state and local Democrats.

For Immediate Release:

DATE:  January 29, 2025

CONTACT: Jonathan Dworkin, The NewDEAL, [email protected]

Washington, D.C. – The NewDEAL strongly opposes the Trump Administration’s order to freeze federal grants and loans, thereby withholding key resources from American families, communities, and non-profits. 

President Trump’s intended freeze stymies the work of state and local elected officials who work tirelessly and directly with community members to deliver services to people in need, expand access to childcare, create good-paying jobs, develop affordable housing units, and take on more big challenges to make life better for everyday Americans. 

Such a move runs counter to Donald Trump’s campaign promises to build a strong economy and “end the weaponization of government against the American people.” Instead, this action stokes fear and division while threatening to cut funding for local police and fire departments, Head Start preschool programs, and initiatives that support homeless veterans, among other things. 

With President Trump’s overreach of power temporarily blocked by federal court, we urge him to reverse course, and we remain committed to uplifting and advocating for state and local leaders in spite of attempts from the Trump Administration to weaken their good work.

Response from NewDEAL Leaders

• Josh Becker, California State Senator, told press: “This freeze on federal grants is illegal, immoral, and dangerous. These funds support critical programs and jobs that people depend on every day. Halting them would put lives at risk, jeopardize major infrastructure projects, and hurt the economy by driving up unemployment.”

• Adrian Boafo, Maryland State Delegate, posted on X: “To all the Marylanders in our state, I want you to know that if Donald Trump freezes federal assistance, @MDDems in the legislature will work around the clock to ensure that you are protected. We will not stay silent and do nothing while Trump takes away your benefits.”
  
• Royce Duplessis, Louisiana State Senator, posted on X: “Federal aid is crucial for Louisiana families, particularly as New Orleans gears up to host the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras—both SEAR 1 events requiring significant resources for safety and security.”

• Kate Farrar, Connecticut State Representative, posted on Instagram: “A judge has temporarily halted some of Trump’s illegal efforts to freeze federal funds to the states but this is not over. I stand strong as a part of the Connecticut firewall to protect our residents. #stayengaged #statelegislaturesmatter”

• Bill Ferguson, Maryland Senate President, posted on X: “As new information becomes available from the Trump Administration’s EOs, including a pause in federal grants here in Maryland, I remain engaged with my team and MD officials to share the latest information with Marylanders and our State House press corps.”

• Aaron Ford, Nevada Attorney General, posted on Blusky: “Our Office is aware of the Trump Administration’s intent to halt federal assistance programs. Any pause to critical funding will harm Nevadans, weaken public safety and negatively affect programs like Medicaid and SNAP. We’re prepared to fight against this ill-conceived idea.”

• Kate Gallego, Mayor of Phoenix, AZ, posted on X: “The @WhiteHouse attempt to block federal grants blatantly violates the law—and puts Phoenix’s Police and Fire departments, our ability to combat homelessness, water conservation efforts, and much more at risk. I strongly urge the President to reverse course immediately.”

• Sandra Jauregui, Nevada State Assemblymember, posted on X: “No WIC, no SNAP, no Universal School Lunch. Programs that Nevada families depend on to feed their children.”

• Will Jawando, County Councilmember in Montgomery County, MD, posted on X: “Grateful for federal courts blocking the reckless grant/loan freeze that threatens vital programs. Working with @MontCoExec, @GovWesMoore & partners at all levels to protect Montgomery County residents & maintain stability.”

• Cavalier Johnson, Mayor of Milwaukee, WI, told press: “”What’s clear is that there’s tens of millions of dollars — literally tens of millions of dollars — that are at stake here in Milwaukee.”

• Tishaura Jones, Mayor of St. Louis, MO, posted on X: “Late last night, a memo went out from the Trump Administration ordering federal agencies to pause the disbursement of federal grants, loans, and other financial assistance to state, local, and tribal governments.”

• Jazz Lewis, Maryland State Delegate, posted on X: “Trump’s actions put at risk so many programs and organizations that everyday Americans depend on. Make no mistake, this pause will damage efforts to improve people’s lives and tackle some of the most defining issues we face.”

• Brooks Lierman, Maryland State Comptroller, said in a statement: “The decision by the Trump administration to attempt to freeze the disbursement of federal grants and loans is deeply concerning because of its potential impact on Maryland residents, communities, businesses, and non-profits, and because of the chaotic nature of the announcement.”

• Bob Morgan, Illinois State Representative, posted on X: “Nearly 1/3 of Illinois residents – 3.3 million adults and children – get their healthcare through Medicaid.  This move is as catastrophic as it is heartless.”

• Tram Nguyen, Massachusetts State Representative, posted on X: “The Trump administration has made an outrageous decision: halting all federal grants & loans, including vital student loans and programs like WIC, which provides essential nutrition support to low-income families.”

• Ron Nirenberg, Mayor of San Antonio, TX, posted on X: “If chaos and confusion were the goal – mission accomplished.”
  
• Rebecca Perkins Kwoka, Democratic Leader of the New Hampshire Senate, posted on X: “Today, I was proud to stand with @AlexisSimpsonNH and call on @KellyAyotte to speak out against POTUS halting federal funding. This move put Granite Staters’ lives & livelihoods on the line and they deserve leaders who will stand up for them. #nhpolitics”

• Dylan Roberts, Colorado State Senator, told press: “A lot of the grants that counties and towns receive to build housing or to provide rental assistance or to stabilize existing housing comes from the federal government, and it’s my understanding that this order has shut those dollars off. So you think we have an affordable housing crisis now? It could get a lot worse.”

• Aaron Rouse, Virginia State Senator, posted on X: “Federal workers shouldn’t struggle to make ends meet because of a government shutdown. That’s why I’ve introduced legislation to create a 30-day delay of evictions and foreclosures for federal workers and contractors who don’t receive a paycheck during a shutdown. We need to protect those who keep our nation running.”

• Sean Scanlon, Connecticut State Comptroller, posted on X: “As Comptroller it’s my job to track what we get from DC and how it’s spent. We spent 14.3 billion in federal funds in FY24. That money helps our kids, seniors, veterans, police and so many more. Make no mistake: any pause will hurt people and have disastrous consequences for CT.”

• Zeb Smathers, Mayor of Canton, NC, posted on X: “Most days, I hate politics—and I’m in it. What I hate most is when children and good people, regardless of race, creed, or party, who are just trying to raise their families, get caught in the crosshairs of political games. This freeze is one of those moments. We can do better.”

• Juliana Stratton, Lieutenant Governor of Illinois, posted on X: “The decision to halt federal funding, poorly disguised as an act of protecting your dollars, is cruel. Millions are scrambling because the White House decided to leave states, their supposed partners, in the dark. The chaos, fear and confusion that’s ensued—that’s intentional.”

• Randall Woodfin, Mayor of Birmingham, AL, posted on Bluesky: “POTUS’s funding pause risks stalling progress in cities like Birmingham, impacting public safety, neighborhood revitalization, workforce development, & healthcare. We urge the Administration to provide clear guidance and a timeline for restoring access to the funds our residents’ taxes pay for.”

• Jeff Yarbro, Tennessee State Senator, posted on X: “The President, by incompetence, malice, or a combination of the two, undermined services millions of people rely on every day-Medicaid, meals on wheels, funding for cops, farmers, & lots more. The presidency isn’t a reality show. There are real-life consequences to the job.”

For Immediate Release 

Contact: Jared DeWese, [email protected]

WASHINGTON – Over one-third of NewDEAL leaders in state legislatures will hold leadership positions in 2025, with 34 members across 19 states elected by their peers to guide their caucuses in key legislative roles. These Leaders represent the future of the party, and will help navigate the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming year to advance innovative, results-driven policies that make a real difference in their communities. Several NewDEALers were recently elected to leadership positions.

Including: 

Alabama: Anthony Daniels, House Minority Leader

Alabama: Jeremy Gray, House Party Whip

Connecticut: Bob Duff, Senate Majority Leader

Connecticut: Kate Farrar, House Deputy Majority Leader

Florida: Fentrice Driskell, House Democratic Caucus Leader

Georgia: Jason Esteves, Senate Minority Caucus Vice Chair of Finance

Georgia: Elena Parent, Senate Minority Caucus Chair

Georgia: Tanya Miller, House Minority Caucus Chair

Idaho: Ilana Rubel, House Minority Leader

Maine: Ryan Fecteau, Speaker of the House

Maryland: Bill Ferguson, President of the Senate

Maryland: Jazz Lewis, House Majority Whip

Michigan: Winnie Brinks, Senate Majority Leader

Michigan: Sam Singh, Majority Floor Leader

Michigan: Darrin Camilleri, Senate Assistant Majority Leader

Michigan: Mallory McMorrow, Senate Majority Whip

Michigan: Ranjeev Puri, House Minority Leader

New Jersey: Troy Singleton, Senate Majority Whip

New Jersey: Vin Gopal, Democratic Conference Chair

New Jersey: Lou Greenwald, Assembly Majority Leader

Nevada: Daniele Monroe-Moreno, Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore

Nevada: Sandra Jauregui, Assembly Majority Floor Leader

North Carolina: Sydney Batch, Senate Minority Leader

North Carolina: Jay Chaudhuri, Senate Minority Whip

North Dakota: Jayme Davis, House Minority Caucus Leader

Ohio: Dontavius Jarrells, House Assistant Minority Leader,

Oklahoma: Michael Brooks, Senate Caucus Chair

Oregon: Ben Bowman, House Majority Leader

Pennsylvania: Joanna McClinton, Speaker of the House

Pennsylvania: Jordan Harris, House Appropriations Committee Chairperson

South Dakota: Erin Healy, House  Minority Leader

Utah: Stephanie Pitcher, Minority Caucus Manager

Virginia: Elizabeth Bennett-Parker, House of Delegates, Deputy Majority Whip

Virginia: Kathy Tran, House of Delegates Majority Caucus Chair

About NewDEAL  

The NewDEAL (Developing Exceptional American Leaders) is a national center-left network of 215 Democratic state and local elected officials who are expanding opportunity and improving government work. More than one in four NewDEAL Leaders have gone on to higher office, and alums include Josh Shapiro, Pete Buttigieg, Stacey Abrams, and many members of Congress.