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2023 Rising Star Nominations List

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RISING STAR<br />

AWARDS<br />

<strong>2023</strong><br />

<strong>Nominations</strong> <strong>List</strong>


Introduction<br />

<strong>2023</strong> <strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong> <strong>Nominations</strong><br />

The <strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong> Award highlights young leaders—one Republican and one<br />

Democrat—and their contributions to the SFCN over the last year. It aims to<br />

recognize SFCN members who embody MAP’s mission of transcending political<br />

tribalism.<br />

MAP will also present the Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact Award to an<br />

outstanding Future Caucus for their exemplary leadership and political bridgebuilding.<br />

These awards honor leaders who take initiative in shepherding post-partisan<br />

legislation that addresses priority issues in today’s political climate. Awardees are<br />

selected based on their active engagement with MAP and their efforts in<br />

identifying opportunities to promote political collaboration in their state.<br />

Awardees must be able to accept the award in person in Washington, DC in<br />

December.<br />

Nominee criteria include:<br />

A Commitment to MAP – Nominee has demonstrated a commitment to<br />

working with MAP through participation in MAP events, local Future Caucus<br />

meetings and events, and engagement with our digital content and message.<br />

Bipartisan Leadership Ability – Nominee has personified millennial leadership<br />

by shepherding bipartisan legislation, convening diverse stakeholders to create<br />

consensus or conversation, and/or working to identify opportunities to<br />

promote cooperation within their legislature.<br />

Measurable Outcome – Nominee has worked to “move the needle” in their<br />

states around policy issues that disproportionately affect younger generations,<br />

as demonstrated through legislative momentum, engagement on state task<br />

forces, legislative committees, or other related activity.<br />

Embodiment of the MAP Ethos – Nominee has embodied MAP values as<br />

Leaders, Teammates, and Explorers who: listen first, say “we,” build trust,<br />

empower others, break barriers, and innovate freely.<br />

01


2022 Awardees<br />

2022 Awardees<br />

Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact Award:<br />

Oklahoma Future Caucus<br />

Since their establishment in September 2020, the Oklahoma Future Caucus has<br />

demonstrated their commitment to the Millennial Action Project's mission of<br />

bridging the bipartisan divide by implementing regular activities for legislators<br />

such as retreats and book club meetings. The caucus is consistently active on<br />

social media, they had the largest caucus representation at the 2022 Future<br />

Summit, and the co-chairs recently authored an op-ed on Ida'a Law.<br />

<strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong> Awardees<br />

Rep. Aaron Pilkington (R-AR)<br />

Rep. Jeremy Gray (D-AL)<br />

02


Future Caucuses<br />

<strong>2023</strong> Cherisse Eatmon Collective<br />

Impact Award Nominees<br />

Arkansas Future Caucus<br />

“...During the past three years that I have been involved with MAP, I have enjoyed<br />

working together with my colleagues in the Arkansas legislature. Without a doubt,<br />

they are highly motivated and incredibly diligent, as demonstrated by the fact that<br />

they passed 39 bipartisan bills this year. The Arkansas Future Caucus is a role<br />

model for the rest of the country. Reps. Jamie Scott and Aaron Pilkington have<br />

previously been selected for the <strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong> Award, which is an indication of how<br />

much leadership talent and potential there is in Arkansas. Moving forward, I<br />

anticipate that the Arkansas Future Caucus will continue to play an important<br />

role not only for MAP's continued success, but also for our country's ability to<br />

function as a democracy.” - OK Rep. Daniel Pae<br />

“The Arkansas Future Caucus passed 39 bipartisan bills in <strong>2023</strong>.” - Paige Ferguson<br />

“Rep. Jamie Scott and the Arkansas Future Caucus are *the* model for what a<br />

Future Caucus should look like: putting partisanship aside to find out what<br />

common ground exists, how you can work to better your state for all, and create<br />

strong friendships along the way. I admire the Arkansas Future Caucus' efforts to<br />

go out of their way to identify areas of shared interest, especially like Rep. Scott<br />

does, to achieve bipartisan solutions to issues the state is facing.” - Kansas<br />

Representative Brandon Woodard<br />

“Having passed 39 bipartisan pieces of legislation, being a key stop on the On the<br />

Rise Tour, and the increased presence of Gen Z legislatures in the state, Arkansas<br />

is deserving of the Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact Award. Doug Thompson, a<br />

prominent reporter in the state, has written in the paper of record about the<br />

impressive quality of the culture change achieved in the statehouse by ARFC.” -<br />

Reed Howard<br />

03


Future Caucuses<br />

“After passing nearly 40 bills, it is my privilege to nominate the Arkansas Future<br />

Caucus for the Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact award. Their work with each<br />

other and their bipartisan leadership ability are a model for other future caucuses<br />

around the country and I cannot wait to see what the future holds under the<br />

leadership of Reps. Scott and Pilkington, both of whom are former <strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong><br />

Award winners as well. What's more - the Arkansas Future Caucus has committed<br />

to being one of our pilot states for our forthcoming Healing <strong>Star</strong>ts Here leadership<br />

development curriculum.” - Brandon Mitchell<br />

“Under the leadership of Co-Chairs Rep. Aaron Pilkington (R) and Rep. Jamie Scott<br />

(D), the ARFC has hit it out of the park this year! MAP visited Arkansas as part of<br />

our On The Rise Tour earlier this year. Shortly after, the caucus hosted a press<br />

conference in June to announce that they had successfully passed 39 pieces of<br />

bipartisan, future-focused legislation, crediting the caucus for their success.<br />

Additionally, the ARFC signed on to pilot one of our leadership development<br />

programs. Young legislators in this state have stepped up in ways that weren't<br />

always in their best interest politically, and I strongly recommend the ARFC for<br />

this award.” - Rochelle Colburn<br />

Georgia Future Caucus<br />

“The Georgia Future Caucus has demonstrated their commitment to the Millennial<br />

Action Project's mission of bridging the bipartisan divide by being one of our more<br />

active caucuses. The caucus is consistently active on social media, its members<br />

regularly attend MAP's annual Future Summit, with an even stronger showing this<br />

year.” - Maloreigh Todd<br />

“Georgia FC was one of our most successful <strong>2023</strong> states, they are incredibly<br />

active and already a great example of bipartisan bill making.” - Miles Sisk<br />

04


Future Caucuses<br />

New York Future Caucus<br />

“The New York Future Caucus launched this year and has already hit the ground<br />

running. They hosted a kick off in-person meeting despite the crunch of session<br />

and gridlock on key issues. They have already hosted community events (in<br />

conjunction with YPO), attended Future Summit and other co-chair only strategy<br />

sessions, and have worked to ensure MAP as an organization is positioned to be<br />

as impactful as possible by making important introductions and 'thinking big.'” -<br />

Layla Zaidane<br />

“The first state to hire a dedicated staff member for Future Caucus, hosting an<br />

incredible event in conjunction with YPO, attending Future Summit, and engaging<br />

across other states in strategy conversations, New York defines 'collective impact'<br />

not just now but into the future.” - Brandon Mitchell<br />

“Alex founded the NY Future Caucus! He gathered support from across the aisle<br />

to finally start the caucus in New York. He also attended the MAP Future Summit<br />

and brought back lessons from other states that we are putting together to stand<br />

up our work. Alex's bipartisan work goes beyond MAP. He passed six bills through<br />

the full legislature this year, all with large bipartisan majorities and most with cosponsorships<br />

from both sides of the aisle. For example, a bill of his which<br />

protects employees' property rights to their own inventions was signed by the<br />

Governor today and cosponsored by both Democrats and Republicans. In fact,<br />

after Republicans in the Rules Committee voted against it, Alex as not content to<br />

ram the bill through, instead he engaged the Republicans on the bill and ended up<br />

convincing all but one person to vote for it on the floor. Alex is focused on<br />

bringing people together to solve problems for our generation(s) and for all New<br />

Yorkers.” - Grace Lee<br />

05


Future Caucuses<br />

Pennsylvania Future Caucus<br />

“Pennsylvania is demonstrating that there is an alternative path and that<br />

bipartisanship can create opportunities for collaboration. Legislators are excited<br />

and the community is very supportive of this work. Over 10 legislators attended<br />

meetings and nearly 30 community members came to the event. While a newer<br />

caucus the legislators are committed to the work and each other.” - Amaia Stecker<br />

Vermont Future Caucus<br />

“Vermont has only grown since its relaunch and it's truly because of the<br />

leadership of the co-chairs. Their work regarding legislator pay, bringing the state<br />

and its people through a historic flood, a recently penned Criminal Justice Reform<br />

letter, and one of the largest delegations at Future Summit.” - Blaine Volpe<br />

Conclusion of Cherisse Eatmon<br />

Collective Impact Award<br />

Nominees<br />

06


Democrats<br />

<strong>2023</strong> <strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong> Award<br />

Nominees<br />

Georgia Rep. Solomon Adesanya (D)<br />

“Solomon's relentless work for the community to see<br />

everyone, regardless of their background, thrive<br />

demonstrates what our country was founded on. Like<br />

many, he came from a background with few resources,<br />

but his passion for his community led him to seek<br />

elected office. He describes himself as big at heart,<br />

and big in perseverance.” - Brett Morrison<br />

Georgia Rep. Jasmine Clark (D) - Co-Chair<br />

“Rep. Clark is known for being a bold advocate in her<br />

state. She has served MAP well in her role as co-chair<br />

of MAP's Georgia Future Caucus, and in May, she spoke<br />

on a MAP-hosted panel at the One America Movement<br />

annual summit about how she works across the aisle<br />

to build relationships with her colleagues. In Most<br />

recently, she introduced GA HB2, which extends the<br />

period for mandatory advance voting and revises times<br />

for holding run off elections for general and primary<br />

elections, and she proposed an amendment to the<br />

state constitution with GA HR345, to provide for<br />

persons 17 years of age to be able to vote in Georgia<br />

elections.” - Rochelle Colburn<br />

07


Democrats<br />

New York Assem. Taylor Darling (D)<br />

“One of the standout qualities that makes<br />

Assemblywoman Darling a prime candidate for this<br />

award is her bipartisan leadership ability. She has<br />

embraced Gen Z and millennial leadership by<br />

championing bipartisan legislation, bringing diverse<br />

stakeholders to the table to foster consensus and<br />

dialogue, and actively seeking opportunities to promote<br />

cooperation within the legislative arena. Her approach<br />

embodies the essence of cross-party collaboration,<br />

which is essential for addressing the challenges our<br />

generation faces… Taylor Darling embodies the core<br />

values that MAP holds dear. She listens first,<br />

emphasizes 'we' over 'I,' builds trust, empowers others,<br />

breaks down barriers, and freely innovates. Her actions<br />

and leadership exemplify the MAP ethos, making her<br />

an outstanding choice for The <strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong> Award.” -<br />

Jhordyne Donaldson<br />

Michigan Rep. Alabas Farhat (D)<br />

“Michigan State Representative Alabas Farhat, just 23<br />

years old, serving his first term as a state<br />

representative, is the youngest legislator in the<br />

Michigan legislature and has showcased his ability to<br />

legislate effectively using principles of the MAP ethos,<br />

taken issues affecting the younger generation head-on,<br />

and reached across the aisle to solve critical issues<br />

affecting Michiganders… He has also shown he is<br />

willing to work across the aisle to improve<br />

relationships and ensure that the legislature can work<br />

as a more efficient body to solve problems in<br />

Michigan.” - Nabil Chamra<br />

08


Democrats<br />

Arizona Rep. Consuelo Hernandez (D)<br />

“Although a freshman legislator, Representative Consuelo<br />

Hernandez, has proven to be a leader for her legislative<br />

district and one who is filled with tenacity and conviction.<br />

Representative Hernandez represents southern Arizona,<br />

from Tucson to the US-Mexico border, with such pride.<br />

During her first legislative session she raised awareness to<br />

railroad safety and the lack of oversight to some of the<br />

tragic accidents that have been caused by excessively long<br />

trains. She was also a leading factor in ensuring that the<br />

Arizona state budget included an expansion to children's<br />

healthcare, an investment in community colleges, and $150<br />

million towards housing and homeless services. Working in<br />

a bipartisan fashion during tumultuous bipolarity in politics<br />

is something that Representative Hernandez has been able<br />

to maneuver, considering her a maverick in the Arizona<br />

State Legislature.”<br />

- Cesar Chavez<br />

Michigan Rep. Jason Hoskins (D)<br />

“State Representative Jason Hoskins is the first openly<br />

gay Black representative in Michigan history. In his first<br />

few months in office, Hoskins took the lead in<br />

expanding Michigan's Civil Rights Act to include<br />

protections for people based on sexual orientation and<br />

gender identity. For this he received statewide and<br />

national acclaim. Representative Hoskins is so well<br />

respected on both sides of the aisle that the vote for<br />

expanding the law received bipartisan support. He is<br />

currently working on economic development plans for<br />

Michigan while always ensuring his home state is a<br />

welcoming and inclusive place for all people.” -<br />

Michigan Representative Jasper Martus<br />

09


Democrats<br />

Vermont Rep. Emilie Krasnow (D)<br />

“Rep Krasnow is a new member of the Vermont<br />

General Assembly and has done a tremendous job<br />

bringing people together to get things done. She is a<br />

bridge builder, someone who listens to all sides and<br />

facilitates solutions without compromising the needs<br />

of her community. When asked about her work she<br />

said, 'Doing this legislative work with transparency and<br />

constituent connections means that once you’ve done<br />

all of the above, you can clearly explain your decisions<br />

to others. None of this means you lose your<br />

convictions or your own perspective, because that’s as<br />

valuable as the person who disagrees with you. It<br />

means you validate the experiences of all, recognizing<br />

that not everyone shares your own “lens”, and help to<br />

work together towards a common goal.' I'm proud to<br />

nominate Rep Krasnow for the <strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong> Award.” -<br />

Vermont Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski<br />

New Jersey Assem. William F. Moen Jr. (D) - Co-Chair<br />

“Assemblyman Moen truly epitomizes what it means to<br />

be a bipartisan leader. Through his short tenure in the<br />

NJ Legislature, he has worked with many members<br />

from across the aisle. He has worked with members in<br />

the minority, granting their requests to be prime<br />

sponsor on some of his bills and also accommodating<br />

amendment requests from their party to his bills. He<br />

has further demonstrated his commitment to being a<br />

bipartisan leader, but working together with MAP to<br />

develop a future caucus in the State of NJ that he is<br />

hoping to launch in the next month or two. Asm Moen<br />

has been a staunch advocate for younger generations<br />

during his time in the Assembly. He has introduced and<br />

passed numerous bills that are aimed at college debt,<br />

public student loan forgiveness, first time home buyers, and more. Being one of<br />

the youngest members in the Assembly he himself experiences these same issues<br />

firsthand, which is why he knows they are so important to many New Jerseyans.<br />

He embodies the MAP Ethos by being a true listener. He takes meetings weekly<br />

with constituents who reach out to his District Office, just to listen to their story,<br />

understand their problem(s) and see how he may be able to help.” - Kyle Hanson<br />

10


Democrats<br />

Massachusetts Rep. Tram Nguyen (D)<br />

“Tram is a third term legislator who is committed to<br />

increasing civic engagement, especially among young<br />

voters. She represents a purple district and has done<br />

incredible bipartisan work to pass bills that help low<br />

wage workers, immigrants, and other vulnerable<br />

communities. As the first Vietnamese American woman<br />

elected to office, Tram has broken barriers and<br />

continues to build trust to successfully represent her<br />

district. She continues to set an example to empower<br />

others to consider public service.” - Hawaii<br />

Representative Greggor Ilagan; Oklahoma<br />

Representative Daniel Pae<br />

Connecticut Rep. Corey Paris (D) - Co-Chair<br />

“Rep. Corey Paris' signature effort this year - which I<br />

was fortunate enough to work on - has managed to<br />

accomplish what our federal government could not: a<br />

bipartisan student debt reduction act. In working<br />

together on HB 6901: Ac Act Concerning a Student<br />

Loan Reimbursement Program throughout this<br />

legislative session, Corey astonished me with his ability<br />

to reach across generational divides, party affiliation,<br />

and racial roadblocks to achieve a truly bipartisan<br />

effort at helping Millennials and members of Gen Z get<br />

desperately needed relief from the onerous debt<br />

crushing their economic hopes. As a member of the<br />

Baby Boom generation who benefitted from a much<br />

smaller ratio of wages-to-debt, I am continually<br />

disheartened by my contemporaries' inability to see today's economics for what<br />

they are: an impossibly imbalanced formula that leaves our young people hanging.<br />

Corey managed, with grace, good humor and true insight, to reach folks whose<br />

own privilege (whether from age or social standing) blinded them to this inequity.<br />

His pilot program, which went through many iterations and hurdles, is a national<br />

leader in how states can provide relief to young people, while helping boost the<br />

economy and help attract and retain young workers to a rapidly aging state.<br />

11


Democrats<br />

Connecticut Rep. Corey Paris (cont’d.)<br />

Rep. Paris' tenacity in making sure all stakeholders were at the table, and his<br />

ability to message clearly the pilot program's objectives, meant that some of the<br />

more recalcitrant members of the House of Representatives came on board with<br />

an idea that nationally is floundering. His commitment to MAP's ideals was the<br />

rudder guiding him; his bipartisanship was an example to all of us; the $6 million<br />

appropriation and early application volume is a testament to the bill's success;<br />

and his insistence of sharing the credit - from caucus meetings to press<br />

statements - meant no voice was left out. Rep. Corey Paris' leadership has just<br />

begun to shine.” - Connecticut Representative Christine Palm<br />

“As a newly-elected state representative, Francisco E.<br />

Paulino has played a significant role in drafting crucial<br />

pieces of legislation. He hasn’t just collaborated with<br />

the newest members of the legislature, but also<br />

actively partnered with seasoned leadership. When<br />

Chapter 60 was ruled unconstitutional by the U.S.<br />

Supreme Court, Rep. Paulino stepped up to the<br />

challenge, redrafting the entire chapter. This initiative<br />

solidified his reputation and earned him significant<br />

respect from his peers.” - Massachusetts<br />

Representative Francisco E Paulino<br />

Massachusetts Rep. Francisco E. Paulino (D)<br />

Arkansas Rep. Jamie Scott (D) - Co-Chair<br />

“This nominee has been exemplary in consistently<br />

working to develop and move significant bills forward<br />

in a bipartisan manner.” - Pamela Goldsmith<br />

12


Democrats<br />

Vermont Sen. Becca White (D) - Co-Chair<br />

“Sen. White not only works tirelessly across the aisle,<br />

but she represents the VT Future Caucus so well. She<br />

always talks of their work and of their individual<br />

members. She encouraged a record number of VT<br />

lawmakers to attend FS this year, even though she<br />

couldn't. She's an incredible rep” - Blaine Volpe<br />

Kansas Rep. Brandon Woodard (D) - Co-Chair<br />

“Reps. Woodard, Blew, and our Kansas Future Caucus<br />

as a whole are one of our shining examples of<br />

bipartisanship. The relationship between the two cochairs<br />

is productive and fun. I particularly appreciate<br />

Rep. Woodard for thoroughly being who he is while<br />

representing the people of Kansas. He doesn't fake, he<br />

doesn't pretend to be anyone else, he is himself and<br />

works hard.” - Miles Sisk<br />

West Virginia Del. Kayla Young (D)<br />

“Del. Young has continued to participate in Future<br />

Caucus programming, despite not having a chapter in<br />

her state, and she has led the charge in creating a<br />

West Virginia Future Caucus.” - Maloreigh Todd<br />

13


Republicans<br />

Indiana Rep. Beau Baird (R) - Co-Chair<br />

“Representative Baird has only recently become aware<br />

of the Millennial Action Project. However, he was<br />

extremely excited to learn about MAP as his legislative<br />

goals and guiding principles were so closely aligned.<br />

More specifically, Representative Baird has dedicated a<br />

significant portion of his time to developing and<br />

activating the youth of his community…Moreover,<br />

Representative Baird has focused on bridging the<br />

partisan divide in several ways. First, his freshman year<br />

he worked hard to organize bipartisan social events to<br />

build strong relationships across the aisle. Secondly,<br />

almost every piece of legislation Representative Baird<br />

has passed has been with strong bipartisan support.<br />

Furthermore, after learning about MAP, Representative<br />

Baird has worked hard to re-initiate the Indiana Future Caucus with the combined<br />

effort of his democrat co chair. I believe representative Baird exemplifies the MAP<br />

ETHOS in many ways. However, probably the most recent example is his ability to<br />

lead a bipartisan effort on the house bill 242 in the <strong>2023</strong> Indiana session. He took<br />

a bill that was highly partisan and through hard work and dedication, was able to<br />

turn it into an almost unanimous Pardison supported piece of legislation.”-<br />

Congressman Jim Baird<br />

Kentucky Rep. Josh Bray (R)<br />

“Representative Josh Bray is committed to working<br />

across the aisle. He is a rising leader in his chamber<br />

and has been focused on moving forward policy issues<br />

that resonate and matter to MAP. In particular, he has<br />

focused on privacy, biometric data, AI, workforce<br />

development, and rural broadband. He is a shining star<br />

who deserves this honor!” - Kristin Strobel<br />

14


Republicans<br />

Pennsylvania Rep. Torren Ecker (R)<br />

“Torren has emerged as a leader in the state capital in<br />

Harrisburg. His willingness to foster bipartisan<br />

relationships, as well as his intellect and work ethic,<br />

have launched him to a respected position amongst<br />

House members on both sides of the aisle. He will<br />

continue to have an outstanding legislative career and<br />

the sky's the limit.” - PA Rep. Tim O'Neal<br />

New Mexico Rep. Joshua Hernandez (R)<br />

“As a Legislator, Joshua embodies the values of the<br />

Millennial Action Project. From day one his focus was to<br />

work across the aisle by focusing on building<br />

relationships and bringing the two sides of the aisle<br />

together to create change. Josh focuses on legislation<br />

that truly helps New Mexicans, not party rhetoric or the<br />

subject the news is covering this week. In his first<br />

session, Josh joined a bipartisan group of Legislators to<br />

reform the liquor license laws in New Mexico leading to<br />

over 300 new restaurants taking advantage of the<br />

licenses. Also, many retail establishments have taken<br />

part in alcohol delivery services across the state<br />

providing a new revenue source to businesses but<br />

making a measurable difference in DWI rates. This piece<br />

of legislation was the first alcohol-related legislation to pass the NM Legislature<br />

in 40 years.<br />

In his second session, Josh passed a bill to create a revolving loan fund for<br />

charter schools to be able to build and expand without taking money from their<br />

education funding. Although they did not pass, Josh also ran legislation to create<br />

an adult learner scholarship for residents up to the age of 35 who did not go to<br />

college to trade school, and to make angel tax credit refundable to encourage<br />

investments from outside of our state.<br />

15


Republicans<br />

New Mexico Rep. Joshua Hernandez (cont’d.)<br />

In the <strong>2023</strong> session, Josh passed 7 bills. These included creating an office of<br />

entrepreneurship to make opening a business in the state easier which was<br />

ultimately vetoed, a health professional loan repayment act to attract medical<br />

students recently graduating to move to New Mexico, and creating a marketing<br />

department for our state government. Throughout his first few years in the<br />

legislature, Josh's focus has been to create good, productive legislation in a<br />

bipartisan fashion to make his state better. He has been nicknamed 'The Uniter'<br />

by many on both sides of the aisle including the Former Speaker of the House. He<br />

will continue to work with anyone willing to work to grow New Mexico and make<br />

it better for our residents and the future.” - New Mexico Representative Joshua<br />

Hernandez<br />

“Rep. Hernandez joined the New Mexico state legislature in 2021 and has been<br />

making WAVES. In addition to passing bi-partisan legislation related to lowering<br />

healthcare costs and creating small business incentives, he's been actively trying<br />

to start a Future Caucus chapter in New Mexico. I had the pleasure to chat with<br />

him during the Future Summit this year and it was great to hear about all the<br />

work he and his class of legislators are doing. He's just getting started and he's<br />

already having a major impact. Imagine what he could do with a Future Caucus<br />

chapter!” - Bowden Saunders<br />

North Dakota Rep. Dawson Holle (R)<br />

“I truly think Rep. Holle would be perfect for this<br />

award. At a young age (18) he ran for the legislature. I<br />

had the chance to serve with him and watch him over<br />

his first session. He would seek democrats to cosponsor<br />

his bills, he would have conversations with<br />

democrats to try and see their point of view, and he<br />

would always be trying to build relationships with the<br />

democrats. This might not sound like a big deal but<br />

North Dakota is a super super majority and frankly (as<br />

bad as it sounds) we don’t need to be bipartisan to<br />

pass bills. But this didn’t matter to Rep. Holle, he likes<br />

people for people and not the label behind their name.<br />

He passed bills that have been tried before but always<br />

failed, these bills helped our dairy farmer industry in<br />

the state. This was huge. He is also willing to meet with lobbyists to hear their<br />

point of view. This shows his humbleness and willingness to learn, which we all<br />

need as a trait. I myself used to be the youngest legislator in North Dakota and I<br />

never had these abilities as he has. He is down to earth and I think he is a<br />

perfect candidate for this award.” - North Dakota Representative Claire Cory<br />

16


Republicans<br />

Maryland Del. Kevin B. Hornberger (R)<br />

“Delegate Kevin Hornberger has a reputation for being<br />

one of the most approachable minority-party<br />

Delegates in the Maryland House of Delegates.<br />

Delegate Hornberger has been successful in working on<br />

and passing a variety of legislative initiatives across<br />

party lines, ranging from trade licensing reform to<br />

EMS/First-responder issues. Delegate Hornberger has<br />

also staked out a firm stance on preserving local<br />

historical sites from over-development, including the<br />

Donaldson Brown Manor and most recently the Tome<br />

School/Snow Hill Archaeological site on the Bainbridge<br />

Property in Port Deposit, MD. Delegate Hornberger was<br />

recently re-elected to his third term in the Maryland<br />

House of Delegates, and currently serves as the<br />

Chairman of the State Legislative Caucus for SEMA. In addition to serving on the<br />

Ways & Means Committee, Del. Hornberger is Chair of the local County Delegation,<br />

and also serves as the House Republican Co-Chair of the Maryland Sportsman's<br />

Caucus.” - Daniel Smith<br />

Oklahoma Rep. Daniel Pae (R) - Co-Chair<br />

“I am specifically nominating Rep. Pae due to his<br />

leadership in authoring a bill to study the effects of<br />

shrooms to treat anxiety, depression, and PTSD, which<br />

passed the OK House on a bipartisan basis. I think this<br />

especially embodies points 3 and 4 of the nominee<br />

criteria. Prior to my role at MAP, I interned on the<br />

House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, and coming<br />

from San Diego, I know many veterans and active-duty<br />

military members. Many of those who I know who are<br />

my age suffer from PTSD. Thankfully, there is<br />

increased interest in being innovative in treatments,<br />

and this bill from Rep. Pae is forward-thinking and<br />

challenges the preconceptions of what Republicans<br />

may see as possible solutions. I'm glad that<br />

Oklahomans have someone like Rep. Pae who will put aside partisan nonsense<br />

and act in the best interest of constituents.” - Murphy Walsh<br />

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Republicans<br />

Illinois Rep. Kevin Schmidt (R)<br />

“Please reference Illinois Hb 2341, this is a shining<br />

example of Kevin's ability to create bipartisan support<br />

for an African American area that is heavily<br />

impoverished. Also reference any and all organized<br />

labor supported bills in the last legislative session.<br />

Kevin has proven himself to be a beacon of<br />

bipartisanship by often times being the only one from<br />

his party supporting a democrat bill. Kevin is also the<br />

House Republican Representative for the Children's<br />

Health Caucus. He has served on the House Children's<br />

Literacy Committee. His district is extremely diverse,<br />

and he has proven himself with actions, not just<br />

words, by supporting ALL of the people from his<br />

district. It is essential for a representative to support<br />

everyone, even those that would never vote for them. Kevin Schmidt embodies<br />

this principle with actions, not just political rhetoric.” - Illinois Representative<br />

Kevin Schmidt<br />

Michigan Rep. Bill G. Schuette (R)<br />

“Representative Schuette strongly embodies the MAP<br />

Ethos through his commitment to bipartisanship and<br />

positive outcomes for all Michiganians. Schuette<br />

actively looks for ways that he can craft legislation with<br />

members across the aisle - including with some that<br />

surprised members of the chattering class. Schuette<br />

has also focused on issues that impact millennials and<br />

Gen Z - including work that will help grow Michigan’s<br />

population and grow its economy.” - Andrea Bitely<br />

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Republicans<br />

Delaware Rep. Michael Smith (R) - Co-Chair<br />

“Rep. Smith embodies what it means to represent the<br />

people of our state. He is rooted in partnerships,<br />

family and commitment to listening and working with<br />

both sides of the aisle. He is an inspiration to young<br />

leaders. You can find him both at Leg Hall AND in the<br />

community - which to me, are equally important.” -<br />

Helana Rodriguz<br />

“Rep. Smith helped to launch the Delaware Future<br />

Caucus this year and was very excited about promoting<br />

policies important to young people as well as working<br />

alongside his Democratic counterparts in Sen. Evans<br />

Gay and Sen. McBride. He talked heavily about prior<br />

bills he passed with their support.” - Maloreigh Todd<br />

Florida Rep. Josie Tomkow (R)<br />

“Representative Josie Tomkow is bipartisan and<br />

dedicated to improving the lives for all Floridians. She<br />

consistently works across the aisle on legislation and<br />

with her friendships in the legislature. She is focused<br />

on many policy areas that are of interest to MAP,<br />

including AI, broadband, and education. She is a great<br />

candidate for this award and a very positive person!” -<br />

Kristin Strobel<br />

Delaware Rep. Michael Smith (R) - Co-Chair<br />

19


Republicans<br />

Vermont Rep. Casey Toof (R) - Co-Chair<br />

“As one of the cochairs of the Vermont Future Caucus,<br />

Rep. Casey Toof brings true bipartisanship to the most<br />

divided Statehouse Vermont has seen in at least 40<br />

years. Despite being one of only 37 Republicans in the<br />

House, Rep. Toof uses his position as Assistant<br />

Minority Leader to find ways to work across the aisle<br />

and collaborate with the majority party, eschewing the<br />

notion that Republicans are simply the party of 'no.' He<br />

doesn't pretend to know things that are out of his<br />

wheelhouse, and has no trouble giving credit to others<br />

when it's deserved. Perhaps the most simple way to<br />

tell that Rep. Toof is respected as a leader in the<br />

building is to look at who he has lunch with; it's never<br />

the same from one day to the next, and he doesn't just<br />

sit with his own party. His colleagues like working with him, but they also enjoy<br />

simply being with him, which is a key to his success in the building.” - Rachel<br />

Feldman<br />

“Rep. Toof has demonstrated a commitment to MAP through his participation as a<br />

speaker at Future Summit and many other MAP events. As a member of the super<br />

minority in Vermont, he is uniquely positioned to demonstrate how overcoming<br />

the partisan divide is possible and is a leader for effective law making in his state.<br />

He is especially passionate about increasing legislator pay to make state<br />

government more accessible for all.” - Lizzie Brown<br />

“Casey Toof is an exemplary member of the Future Caucus. As co-chair of the<br />

Vermont Future Caucus, he has demonstrated a high level of empathy for his<br />

fellows lawmakers and creativity in building coalitions to advance public policy.<br />

His focus on housing affordability to attract and retain young talent in his state is<br />

an issue key to our generation, and the expert way he has worked across the aisle<br />

to forge passable and sensible bipartisan legislation on this issue is an example to<br />

his colleagues. Rep. Toof's service to our organization has also been remarkable.<br />

During the On the Rise tour, Rep. Toof orchestrated a gathering of approximately<br />

30 elected officials, including the House Majority Leader, the Senate minority<br />

leader, and the Lt. Governor. He also arranged a meeting for the MAP team with<br />

Governor Scott to discuss raising legislator pay to ensure the legislature is a<br />

viable option for people of all backgrounds and resources. Rep. Toof was a<br />

featured speaker at this year's Future Summit and added a crucial conservative<br />

perspective to a wide-ranging conversation about the future of our democracy.<br />

His engagement throughout Future Summit was impressive, making the gathering<br />

inviting for members of our network across the political spectrum.” - Reed<br />

Howard<br />

20


Republicans<br />

Vermont Rep. Casey Toof (cont’d.)<br />

“Whether serving as a speaker during our <strong>2023</strong> Future Summit, bringing 30<br />

legislators to an On The Rise Tour event, or arranging a MAP meeting with the<br />

Governor to discuss a legislator pay bill, Representative Toof navigates his role as<br />

co-chair of the Vermont Future Caucus as a beacon of hope for what MAP can<br />

continue to be. Leading with empathy and humility, issues like housing<br />

affordability are at the forefront for Rep. Toof and he regularly seeks to work<br />

across the aisle to pass common sense solutions. What's more - he easily<br />

balances his role as co-chair with his leadership role of Assistant Minority Leader.<br />

For these reasons and more, I humbly nominate Representative Casey Toof for<br />

the <strong>Rising</strong> <strong>Star</strong> Award.” - Brandon Mitchell<br />

Massachusetts Rep. Marcus Vaughn (R) - Co-Chair<br />

“Marcus Vaughn's bipartisanship leadership ability and<br />

his track record of creating positive outcomes in the<br />

state of Massachusetts are evident through several key<br />

actions and achievements: Legislative Collaborations:<br />

Marcus Vaughn has consistently demonstrated his<br />

willingness to work across party lines to develop and<br />

pass impactful legislation. He has successfully cosponsored<br />

bills with colleagues from both sides of the<br />

aisle, showcasing his commitment to finding common<br />

ground and advancing policies that benefit all<br />

constituents. Coalition Building: Vaughn has been<br />

instrumental in forming bipartisan coalitions to<br />

address pressing issues. He played a key role in<br />

passing Bill H.3573, establishing a grant program to<br />

increase the presence of mental health counselors in schools. Vaughn's dedication<br />

to engaging with constituents from all political affiliations is a testament to his<br />

commitment to bipartisanship. He regularly holds town halls, forums, and<br />

community meetings that encourage open dialogue and allow diverse voices to be<br />

heard in the decision-making process.” - Massachusetts Representative Marcus<br />

Vaughn<br />

21


Thank You<br />

THANK<br />

YOU!<br />

Please email<br />

blaine@millennialaction.org<br />

with any questions<br />

22

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