Supporting a New Wave of Young Women Leaders: Tulsi Gabbard & Kelda Helen Roys

What do Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard and Wisconsin State Assemblywoman Kelda Roys have in common?

A lot, actually.

These two extraordinary women represent the new wave of women seeking elected office and the up-and-coming fresh face of American politics. Among the youngest female lawmakers ever elected in their states, they know the kind of fresh perspective Washington needs. They’re both accomplished advocates ready to make a difference for women and families. The torch has been passed in these 2nd Districts of Hawai’i and Wisconsin, and Gabbard and Roys have already hit the ground running.

And now they have even more in common, because EMILY’s List is proud to offer our full endorsement of these spectacular women by moving them up to EMILY’s List Recommended candidates!

As Honolulu City Councilwoman and a member of Hawai’i’s National Guard, Tulsi Gabbard has long been a courageous leader standing up for the Aloha state. At 19, she cofounded an environmental group that changed how students in Hawai’i learn about their land. At 21, she became Hawai’i’s youngest-ever elected legislator and the country’s youngest-ever elected woman legislator. After serving two tours in the Middle East, Tulsi came back to her home state and fought for veteran’s rights and comprehensive health education. She’s a staunch advocate for women’s rights and has often been described as a role model for her generation. As Rep. Mazie Hirono vacates her seat in Hawai’i’s 2nd District to run for Senate, Tulsi has big shoes to fill. But with Tulsi’s compelling story and unique brand of courage and commitment, we know there’s no better candidate for the task!

Over the river and through the woods, there’s another 2nd District up for grabs: Wisconsin’s. We’re excited to help Rep. Tammy Baldwin (now running for Senate) pass the torch to Wisconsin State Assemblywoman Kelda Roys. This self-described bold progressive got her start as the executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Wisconsin. In 2008, after graduating from EMILY’s List Political Opportunity Program, Roys defeated five fierce opponents to become Wisconsin’s youngest serving female lawmaker. In office, Kelda sponsored legislation to protect consumers from financial predators, worked to enhance labor protections, and supported expanded healthcare coverage for children. She’s a passionate progressive leader and a fearless fighter for women’s rights and the middle class. Kelda is exactly the kind of woman we need to hold the seat and continue the fight against Right-wing radicals in Wisconsin and Washington.

As they both gear up for ultra-competitive primaries in the upcoming months, they’ll need your support! Say ‘aloha’ and join us in welcoming this new wave of young women into American politics by supporting Tulsi Gabbard and Kelda Roys today!