Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Candidates Statements - Combined
Candidates Statements - Combined
It has been my honor to serve as DA France National Chair since 2021 and to lead our
extraordinary teams of volunteers through the 2022 midterms. I’m dedicated to
furthering the work we’ve done and increasing our impact in the crucial elections of
2024.
Together with our leaders, I’ve been working to expand and energize our volunteer
teams and membership base, diversify our events, extend our reach into new areas of
France, and organize our powerful GOTV machine. We’ve added 5 nascent
Subchapters in the past 2 years and I’ll continue to prioritize this effort. I’ll keep scouting
new talent, encouraging new voices and training a new generation of leaders. I’m
committed to making DAF even more inclusive, welcoming and diverse.
The role of National leadership is to provide the support and resources necessary for
our Chapters and Caucuses to flourish, because it’s on their grassroots level that we
attract members, create community, and reach voters. I’ll continue to improve our
structures and practices to make our organization even more effective.
Email: chair@democratsabroad.fr
For Americans living abroad, it is even harder to get involved. My mission is to make
this essential work of civic engagement—voting, issue advocacy, and campaign
volunteering—accessible for all Americans in France, no matter their location. As
Database/IT Manager from 2019-2021, I added many tools to DA France's digital
organizing toolkit, like peer-to-peer texting, state voter files, and voter-help hotlines.
Since being appointed First Vice-Chair in 2021, I have worked with our Caucuses to
reach more Americans in France where they are and connect them to avenues for civic
engagement, not just with new tools but with better organization and more grassroots
reach. A strong supporter of Our Revolution France, I hope to continue using our voice
in DA to advocate for effective practices and progressive policies.
Email: mhdunitz@gmail.com
I joined Democrats Abroad in 2008. I was fascinated by the organization, and after I
became Chair for my chapter I got to know the members of DA France via monthly
Webex and Zoom meetings and regional meetings.
This year I choose to run for the role of 2nd Vice Chair (Chapter liaison)
I have had 4 years of experience being Chair for my local chapter, have attended
National and Regional Events, local chapter Events, monthly chapter calls and many
office hours (especially during the pandemic) and have co organized many events for
my chapter and more.
I am concerned about the well-being of some of the chapters that have a hard time
finding members who will volunteer and help them keep their chapters alive.
We are all volunteers who want to do what we can to make Democrats Abroad a
success.
As 2nd Vice Chair I would do my best to help Chapter Chairs reach out to their possible
sub chapter members and define the duties involved.
Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions for me as National
Secretary: ada.shen@gmail.com. Merci!
I have a Mathematics degree from the University of Pittsburgh. I worked with multi-
national, multi-cultural teams across several countries. I strive to find grounds of
agreement when differences block communication. Thanks to my scientific
background, I can explain complex matters in logical, easy-to-understand terms.
Everyone has something to offer and must be heard. We’d all benefit from that state of
mind, no matter what challenges face us.
I was a fervent volunteer for McGovern in 1972. My three sons, all Democrats (who
VOTE!) were born in Paris. I’ve instilled my political passion in them and love to
spread it around.
Email: marjoriedb@gmail.com
I graduated from Boston University in 2006 with a double B.A. in Environmental Policy
and Analysis and in Hispanic Language and Literature. In 2009 I graduated from an
MSc program in Environmental Science, Policy and Management from Central
European University and Manchester University. I have been living in Toulouse since
October 2020.
I believe in the power of voting and since living abroad have realized how crucial it is to
maintain overseas voters engaged so that America continues to represent all our
values.
I first became involved with Democrats Abroad in 2018, while living in Mexico City. I
became the chapter’s Membership Chair where my primary responsibilities included
managing the database, assisting with communications, and aiding GOTV efforts
leading up to the 2020 elections.
My experience with DA over the years has provided me with a basis of the institutional
knowledge of the organization as well as some fresh perspectives I hope to bring to the
table. My familiarity and fluency with Nation Builder as well as other technology
platforms will allow me to effectively execute the tasks of Database and IT Manager
Officer.
Email: alejandra.roman@democratsabroad.fr
Since returning to France in 2020, I have been volunteering to register voters with the
DAF Paris Youth Caucus. This last midterm cycle, in addition to registering voters at the
Fondation des États-Unis and the American University of Paris, I helped organize the
first tabling event at NYU. As a certified voting assistance officer, I have also had the
pleasure of training new volunteers of all ages and levels of experience.
As GOTV Officer, I hope to use my experience with the Paris Youth Caucus to support
robust GOTV efforts throughout France and help local GOTV Officers prepare to make
the greatest impact in 2024.
My name is Amy Porter, and I’m running for a second term as National Communications
Officer. A life-long Democrat and Florida voter, I have been living in France since 1987.
In my former professional life, I served as Marketing / Communications Director at
technology companies and PR agencies and ran my own executive consulting company
for 7 years.
In my current role as Communications Officer, I curate the content for our daily posts on
three social media platforms and have the privilege of working with our wonderful social
media team. The Comms team also includes a user engagement manager and a
graphic designer. Additionally, I coordinate the national media team and have trained a
diverse group of 20 media spokespeople from around the country, and we are in the
process of creating a media outreach program to further increase our presence on the
airwaves.
No candidate(s)
2024!!!
This is what it’s all about!
4 years ago, we spoke of 2020 as the most important election in our lives.
4 years later, we are once again in a fight for the decency and soul of the
country of our birth.
My name is Charlie Aidinoff and I ask for your vote for DPCA Voting Representative. I
have spent the past decade working on campaigns and in government for progressive
democratic candidates and causes. Prior to my wife and I moving to Paris last year with
our dog Raf, I worked in the New York City Mayor’s Office coordinating the work with
local elected officials on legislative issues. I have a deep understanding of NY city and
state legislative politics, and expertise in different policy areas that will translate well in
support of Democrats Abroad as it works to advance the interests of all Americans, and
of Americans abroad. As a young Democrat, I understand the importance of
representing DA France in matters of governance and policy related to the global
Democrats Abroad organization, and will advocate for the breadth and diversity that I
see in our community abroad as we prepare for 2024. I would be honored to serve and
to help advance the issues that will define the next generation in our party -- ending gun
violence, tackling climate change, ensuring gender equity, codifying the right to
abortion, healthcare for all, and creating an economy that works for all.
I'm Kate Barrett (she/her). Originally from Seattle and now a voter in WA-08, I have
been a DA France member since 2016. In 2019, after 3 years as an activist with
Indivisibles France, I joined the newly formed Paris Chapter Executive Committee as
our first Secretary; I have since served as chapter Vice Chair since 2021. I have also
appeared on various national news outlets as a DAF spokesperson, most notably during
the 2020 General.
It is a pleasure and an honor to work with Americans from all walks of life to pursue our
mission of creating a dynamic, inclusive chapter that reflects the identities and concerns
of ALL our members; being in my early 30s, I attach particular importance to engaging,
and engaging with, younger voters. Whether at our monthly social mixers, at speaker
events or at GOTV help sessions, I am always amazed by our members' energy and
commitment, both to one another and to our democracy.
This spirit is what inspires me to continue working on behalf of DA France, and to
submit my candidacy for DPCA Voting Representative. If elected, I pledge to faithfully
and tenaciously represent DAF's interests at the Global level.
I have had the honor and privilege to serve you as DAF Voting Representative. I always
kept my cool and often kept my smile. I love to research the issues, charter
amendments and resolutions. I don’t stop until I've understood all the pros/cons and I
cast a vote in the best interests of DAF.
I participated in DPCA meetings online. I did not have the financial means to attend in
person, nor the freedom to travel due to family responsibilities. I WAS THERE, night
and day! When the roll call began in Tokyo, I proudly responded 'PRESENT' at 3 AM
from France.
You can count on me again, to be present, non-stop, for all the upcoming DPCA
meetings including in April and June.
I came to Paris 45 years ago as a Computer Project Manager. I have a mathematics
degree from the University of Pittsburgh. I have three sons, born in Paris, attended
French schools, all three are DEMOCRATS, and VOTE! SI NON, EN GARDE!
I have served you as your Secretary and your Treasurer. I offer my qualities of
thoroughness, dedication, enthusiasm, AND FRIENDLY PERSUASION and ask for
your vote as National Voting Representative.
Email: marjoriedb@gmail.com
I am submitting my name as a candidate for Voting Representative for DAF for the term
of 2023-2025. Having served on the DAF Executive Committee since 1989 as Chair,
Vice Chair and various other functions (Events Coordinator, Women’s Caucus Chair), I
feel I have the qualifications necessary to understand the workings of Democrats
Abroad France and its place within the Global organization of Democrats Abroad.
I have also served two 4-year terms as Democrats Abroad Representative within the
Democratic National Committee (DNC).
I was previously Voting Rep from 2021-2023 and would be honored to dedicate my
services for a second term in this position. I am greatly committed to Democrats Abroad
France and would do my utmost to assure its best representation within the global
picture. Thank you for considering my candidacy.
I've chaired the Paris Chapter for the past two years, focusing on building a strong and
active community. As your voting representative of France, I'll vote for our shared
progressive values and support international leadership that prioritizes transparency,
good governance, and our interests.
By staying united and focused on our Democrats Abroad mission of getting out the vote,
we can achieve a Democratic victory in 2024!
I would be honored to serve as your representative again and hope to have your vote.
I was born in Massachusetts in 1954 and have voted in that state since 1972. I have
resided in France since 1977. I have been a professor at the Sorbonne Nouvelle since
2011 and a teacher-researcher in the French university system, in political science and
U.S. and Latin American studies, since 1986.
I’ve been an active member of Democrats Abroad for 4 years, since arriving in rural
Provence, and previously served as Marseille Chapter Secretary.
I’m proud of being a founding member of the Global Senior Caucus and the Global
Disability Caucus - which I Chair (I have disabilities myself). I joined the Medicare
Portability Task Force at its conception.
Born in Connecticut, I vote in California and was previously President of the Los
Angeles Chapter of the National Organization for Women. My career in advertising/
marketing communications began in New York and has proven helpful to my efforts on
behalf of DA.
I’m committed to the values of the Democratic Party and work hard to advance the
goals of Democrats Abroad.
I cherish the friends I’ve made within Democrats Abroad and seek your support as both
a representative of RURAL France and of the DISABLED community.
My name is Robert Levitt (FL-23) and I'm running for DPCA Voting Representative to
ensure tax issues remain a top priority for Democrats Abroad. In France since 2007, I
joined DA Riviera in 2008, while I served as a major fundraiser for Bill Richardson's (D-
NM) Presidential campaign. My career began in 1983 working for Jeff Bingaman (D-
NM.) I presently serve as Deputy Chair of DA Taxation Task Force, speaking regularly
with Congress, the IRS, Treasury, and banking associations concerning legislation to
remedy the tax concerns of Americans Abroad. I conduct fundraising seminars on
investment issues for DA, in France and globally. Locally, I will be the incoming Deputy
Chair of the Riviera Chapter.
I am now retired from a career in the media/entertainment sector, and from my work
with global NGO, Reporters Without Borders. I live in Nice and look forward to staying
active “on the ground” as Chair of DAF Riviera.
I welcome your support. Please contact me if there are any questions regarding my
candidacy. Email: ronny.rubin1@gmail.com
My name is Dori Schwartz-Laboune and I'm running for Voting Representative. I was
the National Get Out the Vote Officer for France (2021-23), and am the recently elected
Chair of DA Lyon. I come to Democrats Abroad as a progressive activist who is excited
and driven by the need for change in mainstream Democratic Party politics. I am ready
and willing to work to make those ideals reality. I come from Oregon and have lived in
Lyon for 15 years. Back home I had worked for twenty years as a certified Spanish-
English court interpreter. Here in France I work as a home health aide.
I'm Joe Smallhoover (he/him), and I ask for your vote for DPCA Voting Representative. I
have been active in DA from France since 1985, and have served both DA France and
the Global Executive Committee in various elected leadership roles, including Chair,
Vice Chair, and Legal Counsel, and most recently as Counsel on the Global ExCom that
delivered Biden the margin of victory in 2020 in 2 states. I helped draft the Help America
Vote Act (2002) and also the MOVE Act (2010) making it easier for Americans to vote
from abroad. I was a longtime member of the DA Taxation Task Force advocating for
tax fairness for Americans abroad, and I am currently one of DA's members of the DNC
(2020-2024), serving on the DNC Senior Council, Disability and LGBTQ Caucuses.
My name is Jeff Steiner and I'm running for DPCA voting representative. I joined DA
France in 2015 and DA’s Global Taxation Task Force in 2022. I want to make
Residency Based Taxation a reality. As part of my activism, I’m DA NationBuilder
certified and help set up tax events on the website. These tax events have helped raise
over $22,000 so far this year.
Because the American tax code is based on citizenship, not residency, Americans
abroad have to double file and are liable for double taxation, both in the US and in
France. We pay 3 times more on average vs Americans in the US for tax prep services
to prove we owe no US tax and struggle to open bank accounts due to FATCA. Taxes
are the second biggest reason people don’t vote in US elections. None of this is right
and this discrimination of Americans abroad must stop. DA is well positioned to GOTV
and pass RBT.
I have lived in France for over 20 years and previously in Nicaragua. I work for an NGO,
have a son and have dual US/French citizenship. I would appreciate your support by
voting for me on April 1st.
Joseph VOELKER (M)
I am strongly progressive and enjoy a good political discussion and debate. But I also
believe that we, Democrats, must work together constructively to take back control of
government in the United States at local, state, and federal levels.
I trained as a lawyer and have been a managing editor reporting on legal developments
in Washington. In recent years, I was Director of Marketing, Communications and
Development for a UK-based educational institution.
As a life-long Democrat, I volunteered for the 1993 presidential campaign and for
various state and local campaigns in Virginia.
Having previously been a member of DAUK, I joined DA France shortly after moving to
Nice with my husband at the end of 2014. I have served on the DAF Riviera Chapter
executive committee since 2015 as variously: member-at-large, treasurer, secretary,
and chairperson. In addition I am involved with the LGBT+ Caucus. I have recently
retired to Perpignan, which is in the Toulouse chapter.
I believe our DA work makes a difference to folks abroad and back home and feel I
have some traits that will make me an effective DPCA rep. I enjoy collaborating and can
disagree respectfully while moving dialogue forward to get to effective solutions. I'm a
creative problem solver who listens to everyone’s concerns and ideas. I take initiative:
I'm currently working on ways our global GOTV efforts can improve.
If elected, my priorities will be to make voting easier and improve voter assistance tools
for all volunteers. Let's also make DA more functional for chapter and caucus leaders
and members.
My electoral work ranges from registering voters, knocking on doors, GOTV and
recruiting volunteers to coordinating and implementing electoral strategy for thousands
of workers while heading a regional body of trade unions.
I was the AFL-CIO European Representative and the U.S. Worker Delegate to the
International Labor Organization, negotiating with employers and governments. If re-
elected, I’ll work hard to ensure that DAF fights for the needs and aspirations of the
working class.