Elise Lester

Elise's Statement

I’m Elise Lester, a renter in Mountain View, passionate about building a Democratic Party that truly serves the people. Last election cycle, I led a successful school bond campaign in my hometown, ensuring students have access to the resources they deserve. I helped unionize my workplace, standing up for better working conditions. This past year, I spent every weekend walking precincts, walking for candidates who champion equity.

Today, I am a Field Representative for the California State Assembly in AD 23, connecting constituents to resources and ensuring their voices are heard. I serve on the Executive Board of the Silicon Valley Young Democrats and the Human Relations Commission for the City of Mountain View. Through these roles, I’ve witnessed the power of collective action and the urgency of addressing the challenges facing our communities.

My top priorities reflect the crises we’re facing:

Economic Inequality: No one should have to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table. I’ll fight for fair wages, worker protections, and policies that allow everyone to thrive.

Housing Affordability: As a renter, I know firsthand the anxiety of rising rents. We need bold action to make housing accessible and affordable for all.

Campaign Finance Reform: The Democratic Party must be accountable to people, not corporations. Reducing corporate influence is essential to creating policies that reflect real needs.

These issues don’t exist in isolation. We are funding the ongoing atrocities in Gaza, and we are watching as a national hate campaign targets trans people in our communities. These injustices demand leadership that is unafraid to call them out and fight for a just, compassionate future.

I ran for this position because I believe the Democratic Party must do better. Too many people feel unheard and unrepresented, while families struggle and marginalized communities advocate for their very survival. The Party must reflect the voices and needs of all people, not just the most privileged.

This work is personal to me. I know what it’s like to stand up against powerful forces, to push for change that feels impossible. I believe in the power of listening, amplifying the voices of the unheard, and fighting for meaningful solutions.

I would be honored to earn your vote. Together, we can build a Democratic Party that stands for justice, equity, and hope for all.