Conference: Opportunities!

Next week, I will join more than 200 other young, progressive elected officials in Washington, DC next week at the fifth annual convening of the national Young Elected Officials Network.
This photo is from a few years ago... on this trip, we will also be attending a White House briefing! I'm not sure that I'll be able to visit the West Wing, though, as I did with Mayor Marine a few years ago.

The participants at the conference next week, progressive elected officials from across the country, are all under the age of 35. The young leaders will meet with a number of national leaders in Washington and share with each other their policy ideas, leadership strategies, and best practices.

I’m excited about learning from other young elected officials. Some of the sessions I’m attending include economic sustainability (economic development and job creation), sustainable green policies and e-Democracy (outreach and involvement). I hope to bring back some good ideas to work on in Mukilteo.

The Young Elected Officials (YEO) Network, organized by the People For the American Way foundation, consists of over 550 young, progressive city, county, state and federal officials from all 50 states. Most are at the start of their political careers; 89 percent are interested in running for higher office in the future.

“These young elected officials play a critical role in our local, state, and national governments,” said Andrew Gillum, Tallahassee City Commissioner and executive director of the YEO Network. “They are leaders in policy debates around the country, and manage billions of dollars in public funds. They are passionate, innovative, and committed to helping their communities be places of freedom, fairness, and opportunity. The YEO Network National Convening is a great way for them to work together to share ideas and empower each other as they continue their careers in public service.”

One great thing about this conference is that the costs are pretty minimal—my council travel budget will pay just for the airfare. The conference covers lodging, workshop costs and most meals. Another great thing-- our State Representative, Marko Liias, is attending as well!