Endorsement Process

ELLA Adelante's endorsement process is designed to identify candidates who
understand the responsibilities of public office and are prepared to govern in the public
interest.

Many of the candidates we endorse begin in our Emerging Leaders program, where
they learn about the role and responsibilities of elected office, public budgets,
policymaking, governance, and civic engagement. Participation in Emerging Leaders
does not guarantee an endorsement.

Our endorsement process includes:

• Candidate Interest - A prospective candidate expresses interest in seeking ELLA Adelante's endorsement.
• Values Assessment - We evaluate whether the candidate's approach to public service aligns with our principles of participatory democracy and community-centered decision-making.
• Candidate Questionnaire - Candidates complete a detailed questionnaire about their priorities, experience, understanding of the office they are seeking, and approach to governing. 
• Individual Conversations - We meet with candidates to discuss their goals, leadership philosophy, and how they would make decisions while in office.
• Leadership Review - Our team reviews the information gathered and determines whether to issue an official endorsement.

Our endorsements are based on more than policy positions. We look for candidates who understand that elected office is a public responsibility, not a vehicle for advancing business interests, industry interests, personal gain, or future political ambitions.

When ELLA Adelante endorses a candidate, we conduct our own independent endorsement campaign to educate voters about why we made that decision. Our outreach focuses on the candidate's qualifications, priorities, and approach to governing so residents can make informed decisions at the ballot box.

We do not endorse candidates because politics is their career. We endorse people who have demonstrated integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to serving the public. We expect elected officials to govern with the understanding that residents, not donors, political parties, industries, or special interests, are the primary stakeholders in every public decision.

Our Work

• Community-Based Voter Power
• Endorsements
• Endorsement Process
• Campaigns
• Candidate Development
• Emerging Leaders 2
• Our Policy Work