FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 17, 2018

CONTACT: Elliot Levy, [email protected], 202-800-7409

Washington, D.C.— With three weeks until arguably the most important midterm election in a generation, Bend the Arc: Jewish Action PAC — the nation’s only Jewish PAC with a sole and central mission of supporting a progressive domestic agenda — has endorsed three candidates for governor: Stacey Abrams of Georgia, Andrew Gillum of Florida, and Ben Jealous of Maryland.

These endorsements mark a new chapter in Bend the Arc’s electoral strategy, and a recognition of the magnitude of this moment to elect leaders who embody the true diversity of our democracy. This is the first time in its history that Bend the Arc: Jewish Action PAC has endorsed candidates in gubernatorial races.

“Abrams, Gillum, and Jealous are not only solid progressives ready to lead their states in achieving a vision of equity, opportunity and inclusion, but their wins on Election Day will change the face of power of an entire region,” said Ginna Green, Chief Strategy Officer of Bend the Arc: Jewish Action. “This is a monumental moment where the Jewish community — acting on the values of our tradition — can lend our voice to building a democracy that reflects the diversity of America and fulfills the true promise of our nation.”

If elected, Abrams would become the first black woman governor in United States history, and Gillum and Jealous would become the first black governors of Florida and Maryland, remarkable achievements in three states where black people could be bought and sold just one hundred and fifty years ago.

Each candidate was chosen based on their policy stances reflecting Bend the Arc: Jewish Action PAC’s core values. Abrams, Gillum and Jealous have all demonstrated a commitment to protecting equal rights for all, including voting rights; racial equity; LGBTQ rights; and reproductive rights; equal opportunity, including support for fair treatment of workers and fundamental economic justice; and building an America that welcomes, embraces, and protects immigrants and refugees.

Bend the Arc: Jewish Action PAC has also endorsed 36 candidates for U.S. House and four candidates for U.S. Senate.