Taking Power Back at the Local Level – A Message from Our Executive Director

At Local Democracy Project, we're launching a down-ballot revolution by supporting municipal races and community organizations—reclaiming local power through genuine, face-to-face engagement. We're honored to partner with: This work is deeply personal – For four years, I ran for Congress in a district the establishment labeled "unwinnable." I didn't choose an easier, safe race—I ran because I saw a community left behind. Over two election cycles, I witnessed a bigger truth: the Democratic Party is no longer the party of the working class. While everyday people struggled, Democrats poured millions into consultants who never stepped into our neighborhoods. Meanwhile, Republicans knocked on doors, registered voters, and built local power by winning school boards, city councils, and county seats. I remember a union worker in Barstow telling me, "I don't trust Democrats. They talk a big game, but my paycheck hasn't grown, and my bills keep piling up." He was right. That moment shifted my perspective. Instead of focusing solely on winning a congressional seat, I began talking about building something lasting—empowering communities at the grassroots level. At Local Democracy Project, we invest in down-ballot races to elect real working-class leaders—people who live the struggle and deliver change. A presidential candidate can't shake hands with millions, but thousands of local candidates can. They meet their neighbors, listen to their struggles, and fight for them—not for corporate donors. That's how we win. We're not waiting for change from the top— We're organizing. We're taking power back at the local level. Thank you for standing with us. - Derek Marshall, Executive Director, Local Democracy Project     Donate Now Local Democracy Project supports down-ballot races and empowering communities across the country. We're rebuilding democracy from the ground up. Donate To donate by check, please mail to: Local Democracy Project PO Box 720800 Pinion Hills, CA 92372 Paid for by Local Democracy Project. Contributions or gifts to Local Democracy Project are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Sent via ActionNetwork.org. To update your email address, change your name or address, or to stop receiving emails from Local Democracy Project, please click here.