Julián for the Future
For Immediate Release: Saturday, November 23, 2019
Contact: Sawyer Hackett, National Press Secretary

Key Iowa Local Democratic Leaders Endorse Julián Castro

SAN ANTONIO, TX (November 23, 2019) – Key Iowa local Democratic leaders endorsed presidential candidate Julián Castro on Saturday during his return to the state. 

The chair and vice chair of the Lee County Democrats, Mary Jo Riesberg and Vernon Windsor, respectively, and Des Moines community leader Nicholas Schnerre endorsed Castro, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary under President Obama and San Antonio Mayor.

The three endorsements are the latest this month for Castro who already announced 12 in Iowa, six in Nevada, nine in Texas including top legislative leaders, and 14 national endorsements this week including a third Democratic National Committee member and six current or former lawmakers from Texas, Arizona, New Mexico and Missouri.

Here’s what some of Secretary Castro’s new endorsers had to say:

Mary Jo Riesberg, Lee County Democrats Chair:
“Secretary Julián Castro is inviting us to all join in working to create a stronger America in which all of us may prosper. He is offering Democrats the opportunity to take back our purpose as the champions for the poor. To be the party of what is right and just. To be proud again that the American dream will be available for everyone to grasp, regardless of our origins, our parents, our language, our race, our ability, or who we love. We’ve always claimed that’s the American dream, but we need a leader who can help us make it reality. We have that candidate in Julián Castro. I urge everyone to join me in supporting Secretary Castro to elevate these important and overlooked voices.”

Vernon Windsor, Lee County Democrats Vice Chair:
“We need a president worthy of my Promised Land. I want a president who knows about hard times and what it means to struggle in life. Such a person will fight hard in a general election and won't take anything for granted. A sincere, authentic candidate will resonate with most voters. A president with a similar background to many regular citizens will push for policies grounded in reality that will improve the lives of most Americans, from the bottom on up.”

Nicholas Schnerre, Des Moines Community Leader:
“Julián has always shown me that to him people will always come first. He has centered his campaign on uplifting marginalized voices, striving to end police brutality, decriminalizing migration/pushing for comprehensive immigration reform, fighting for LGBTQ+ equality/liberation and has always stood up for survivors of sexual abuse. As someone who has marched in the streets of Ferguson beside Black Lives Matter, protested Kavanaugh with survivors like myself, and witnessed the outcome of marginalized people being silenced; I’m ready to live in Julián Castro’s America.”

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Julián for the Future
For Immediate Release: Thursday, November 14, 2019
Contact: Sawyer Hackett, National Press Secretary

Julián Castro Secures High-Profile Iowa Endorsements Following His Historic Call To Reorder Primaries

SAN ANTONIO, TX (November 14, 2019) – Following his historic call to reorder the Democratic primary states this week, former U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary under President Obama and San Antonio Mayor, Julián Castro secured the endorsement of three critical leaders in Iowa. 

Kyla Patterson, the Chair of the Stonewall Caucus of the Iowa Democratic Party, Monica Vallejo, the President of LULAC's Cedar Rapids chapter, and Emily Shields, a prominent community leader, announced their endorsement Wednesday, following Secretary Castro's historic call to reorder the Democratic primary schedule to be inclusive of more diverse states. 

On Wednesday, Iowa's The Gazette published an editorial 'Abolish the undemocratic Iowa caucuses' in which they say Secretary Castro is right in calling for a change to the primary schedule. The article notes, "Taking away Iowa’s first-in-the-nation status and giving it to a state that is more representative of who America is a necessary bold step, one that no one in Iowa will ever take. But it will be taken from us, if we don’t change."

Kyla Patterson, the first transgender Chair of the Stonewall Caucus of the Iowa Democratic Party:
"I've gotten to know Secretary Castro over the past year. Whether it was when we had lunch together or celebrating Trans Visibility Day by honoring Selena and playing Loteria, I always felt a sense of belong with him. I never had to chalk up or sugar coat my human self. I could be my authentic self. By him allowing me to be authentic, I have given encouragement of being bolder for the trans community and sex workers rights. He listens and we need the next president to make sure marginalized people are to be counted, not left behind. This is why I am glad to endorse Secretary Castro. He has more than earned my support. I want to make sure his message stays on the debate stage and well after the Iowa Caucus."

Monica Vallejo, President of the Cedar Rapids LULAC:
"Julián has been a champion for the most vulnerable and marginalized communities since day one of his campaign. He las led boldly on immigration, housing, education, police violence, and speaking out against Donald Trump's bigotry--issues that matter immensely to the Latino community in Iowa and elsewhere. I'm proud to endorse Secretary Castro because he is fighting for everyone, has a message that will unify Americans of all backgrounds, and will take the fight to Donald Trump's feet next November."
 
Emily Shields, community leader
"In 2020 our party needs a nominee who represents the growing diversity of our nation, who's leading without fear on big ideas and bold stances, and who's not afraid to fight for the least among us. Secretary Julián Castro would be that nominee, and I'm proud to endorse and caucus for him this February."

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Julián for the Future
For Immediate Release: Saturday, November 9, 2019
Contact: Sawyer Hackett, National Press Secretary

More Iowa Leaders Endorse Secretary Castro Citing His Executive Experience, Dedication to Fighting for All People

 
SAN ANTONIO, TX (November 9, 2019) – As Julián Castro returns to Iowa this weekend following the release of a new ad in the state, nine leaders from throughout Iowa endorsed the former U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary under President Obama and San Antonio Mayor, for president on Saturday highlighting his executive experience and dedication to fighting for all people.

The endorsements follow nine new Texas endorsements on Tuesday from high-profile elected Democrats, including from the top legislative leaders, who were previously committed to former Texas Congressman Beto O’Rourke.

The latest supporters include leaders from Des Moines, Marshalltown, the Quad Cities, Perry and Urbandale.

“I am honored by the support of these leaders who will be true partners in our fight to ensure all Iowans and all Americans have a seat at the table,” Secretary Julián Castro said. “We continue to grow momentum and support in every corner of the state, where I am traveling to hear from all Iowans.”

Here’s what some of Secretary Castro’s new endorsers had to say:

“I am supporting Secretary Julián Castro because he understands that it is what makes us different that makes us strong,” said Latinx community leader David Calderon. “When we work together, we can overcome all the hate that is thrown at us. Secretary Castro is dedicated to fighting for a future that includes all the people of this country.”

“I believe Secretary Castro is the right person for the job because he has already proven that he can handle executive experience,” said community leader and retired UAW leader M. Eva Savala. “He was the mayor of one of the largest cities in the country, and then served as President Barack Obama’s Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. He has the experience and the strength to lead this country into the future, and that’s why I support him.”


Those endorsing Secretary Castro on Saturday include:
M. Eva Savala, Quad Cities Community Leader and Retired UAW Leader

Thomas Lecaque, Grandview Professor, Des Moines

Pastor Eduard Carmenate, Des Moines

Antonio Ruiz, Des Moines Business Owner

Juan Meraz, Perry Community Leader

Jesus Hernandez, Urbandale Business Owner

Alfonso Medina, Jr., Marshalltown Business Owner 

David Calderon, Community Leader

Holly Brown, AAPI Caucus Chair
 

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Julián for the Future
For Immediate Release: Thursday, August 29, 2019
Contact: Sawyer Hackett, National Press Secretary

Iowa Leaders Endorse Secretary Castro Citing His Commitment to All People

SAN ANTONIO, TX (August 29, 2019) – Eight Iowa leaders from throughout the state endorsed former U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary under President Obama and San Antonio Mayor, Julián Castro, for president on Thursday highlighting his commitment to fighting for all people. 
 
Secretary Castro continues to grow support and momentum in Iowa, picking up endorsements in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Marshalltown, Mount Pleasant, Des Moines and rural Fremont County. 

"I am traveling to every corner of Iowa and am honored to have the support of these leaders who know these communities best and work every day to make them better," Secretary Castro said. "The support of these leaders is critical as the campaign continues to gain support and momentum throughout Iowa."

“I support Secretary Castro because I believe he is committed to serving all people, no matter their background or hometown. His commitment to lifting up the voices of those usually left out goes above and beyond, and he embodies the type of leader I believe should be in the White House." -- Lindsey Ellickson, Cedar Rapids community leader and state central committee member of the Iowa Democratic Party

“Secretary Castro understands the promise of a better life that America holds for so many, and his story is a testament to his leadership and commitment to listening to all people. I proudly endorse Secretary Castro because he is dedicated to fighting for all Americans regardless of their hometown.” -- Jonathon Muñoz, president of LULAC Council 308

“I support Secretary Castro because he 'walks the walk.' He does not just talk about the major issues facing our communities, but he has taken a concrete stance to solve them. Secretary Castro has walked through, seen, and listened to the concerns of our communities. He represents the future of politics and is inspirational to many, even those who previously have 'given-up' on politics.” -- Andrew Bribriesco, legal advisor for LULAC Iowa and a workers’ rights attorney 

Those endorsing Secretary Castro on Thursday include:

• Lindsey Ellickson, Cedar Rapids community leader and state central committee member of the Iowa Democratic Party
• Dave Barajas, Marshalltown community leader
• Jonathon Muñoz, LULAC Council 308 President, LULAC Iowa State Parliamentarian and Iowa City Human Rights Commissioner
• Andrew Bribriesco, Legal advisor for LULAC Iowa and workers’ rights attorney  in Iowa City
• Don “Bart” Bartholomew, Former Fremont County Supervisor 
• Maria Mellado, Mount Pleasant LULAC Council President 
• Dawn Martinez Oropeza, Community leader and arts activist in Des Moines
• Adalberto “Beto” Castrejon, Former president of the University of Northern Iowa Hispanic Latino Student Union

The new endorsements from local Iowa leaders follow Secretary Castro’s eleventh trip to the first-in-the-nation caucus state. 

Last week, Secretary Castro visited TPI Composites in Newton, Iowa, to speak about the need for the United States to invest in green jobs and renewable energy. 

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Julián for the Future
For Immediate Release: Monday, July 8, 2018
Contact: Sawyer Hackett, National Press Secretary 
SAN ANTONIO, TX (July 8, 2019) – On Monday, July 8, the presidential campaign of former U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary under President Obama and San Antonio Mayor, Julián Castro, announced seven new endorsements from local Iowa leaders during Secretary Castro’s seventh trip to the first-in-the-nation caucus state. 
 
In a letter released Monday, the leaders wrote, “Secretary Castro has proven time and again that he will be a president for all Americans — including those whose voices are not being heard in Washington today. Our job this year couldn’t be more critical —- we must choose a candidate who not only has a vision for the future but also the ability to beat Donald Trump. Julián Castro has shown he can do both. And there is simply too much at stake for our country right now to choose anything less. For us, there is only one candidate, and we hope you’ll join us and support Julián Castro.”

The endorsements were announced during Secretary Castro's seventh trip to Iowa, where he hosted meet-and-greets in Council Bluffs and Montgomery County, before traveling to Tabor and Bartlett to tour damage from recent flooding along the Missouri River. Secretary Castro’s trip to Iowa follows his stand out performance at the first Democratic debates, which the New York Times described as "Castro's big night."  Following the debates, ABC and the Washington Post published a poll in which Secretary Castro moved into the top five polling candidates nationally at four percent. 
 
“As our campaign continues to pick up momentum following the first debates, I’m honored to announce the support of five incredible political and community leaders from across Iowa,” said Secretary Castro. “We continue to expand our presence in the first-in-the-nation caucus state, and with the support of impactful and influential leaders like these, we can win the Iowa caucuses next February.” 
 
The full letter can be read below:
 
   
As Iowans, we understand the responsibility that comes with being the first in the nation to vote. We want to not only hear where the candidates stand on the issues, but to truly understand how their vision for our country will impact our neighbors and our community. We want to be confident that our nominee has the strength, empathy, passion and experience to deal with the challenges ahead.
 
Secretary Julián Castro’s vision to make this country the smartest, healthiest, most prosperous, and fairest for all Americans is the real deal. Growing up in San Antonio, he was raised by a single mother and attended public schools. After graduating from Stanford University and Harvard Law School, Julián embarked on public service and became the youngest city council member in his hometown, and then was elected Mayor. In 2014, President Obama nominated him to be Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Julián’s story is the American Dream. Like so many working families across Iowa, Julián wasn’t given a head start, but through hard work and determination both he and his twin brother, Joaquin, now a U.S. Congressman, have been able to accomplish their dreams.
 
Julián understands that what matters most to voters is showing up. That’s why he’s sat with and listened to residents in a mobile home park in Waukee, is traveling to rural Tabor and Bartlett to hear how ongoing flooding continues to impact these communities, and has shown up in deep-red Steve King country to meet voters in Orange City. Secretary Castro has proven time and again that he will be a president for all Americans — including those whose voices are not being heard in Washington today. 
 
Our job this year couldn’t be more critical —- we must choose a candidate who not only has a vision for the future but also the ability to beat Donald Trump. Julián Castro has shown he can do both. And there is simply too much at stake for our country right now to choose anything less.
 
For us, there is only one candidate, and we hope you’ll join us and support Julián Castro.
 
 
Signed:
 
Rob Barron, Des Moines School Board member and Founder Latino Political Network

Mary Campos, Longtime Activist and Community Leader
 
Steve Villatoro, Community Leader and Vice Chair of Latino Caucus
 
Joe Henry, Longtime Leader and Activist in Latino Community
 
Jose Ibarra, Storm Lake Councilman
  
Bonnie Brown, Community Leader and SCC Member

Sally (Araceli) Goode, Community Leader and Activist 
 
 
 
About Secretary Julián Castro
Julián Castro served as U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Barack Obama from 2014-2017. Before that, he was Mayor of his native San Antonio, Texas — the youngest mayor of a Top 50 American city at the time. In 2012, he gave a rousing keynote speech at the Democratic National Convention, during which he described the American Dream as a relay to be passed from generation to generation. Most recently, Castro founded Opportunity First, an organization to invest in the next generation of progressive leaders. In October 2018, Little, Brown published Castro’s memoir, An Unlikely Journey: Waking Up from My American Dream. Follow Julián Castro on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. JulianfortheFuture.com and Julianparaelfuturo.com