Jackson County Democratic Committee

Jessica Podhola

Growing up Jessica learned about Democratic politics around the kitchen table. The only daughter of a longtime political activist, she learned the value at an early age of political organizing. “My mom told me that if I wanted to change the system, I needed to do that from the inside.” she started knocking on doors with her mom at the age of 8 and 4 years later was a precinct captain in Jesse Jackson’s failed 1984 presidential bid. “My parents encouraged me to develop my own political philosophy, so long as it wasn’t conservative, in my house that just wasn’t an option”.

Jessica moved around a lot as a child, as her mother worked with state legislatures on crafting family law. All of those changes (every two years) prepared her for a life in politics. “Whatever community we were in, my parents made sure that I understood the importance of individual participation to make a difference.”

Despite electoral success in 2008 Jessica feels strongly that the daunting challenges that face our nation and our neighborhoods require immediate action, so there is no time to rest. Our leaders at the federal, state and local levels will depend on support from rank and file Democrats to enact and defend practical policies that benefit all Americans. “My experiences on political campaigns in California and Missouri have taught me the value of a strong political organization at the local level. My past experiences have prepared me uniquely for the challenges that we face in Jackson County. The election this year is crucial, we have a real opportunity to pick up seats in the Missouri House and Jackson County will play a major part in that. If it is going to happen at all, it has to happen here.”

The Jackson County Democratic Party plans to take an active role in this important effort. Our Party’s record of constructive action in last year’s victories provides a foundation to build on for the future. Executive Director Jessica Podhola has been central to our Party’s success, and the committee’s improved ability to respond to its membership. With the aid of an executive director, the county committee increased its efficiency and effectiveness.

We are asking you to join us in providing financial support to continue a vital initiative launched in 2008, when the county committee hired its first executive director. We are holding a fundraising event on February 18th at The Uptown Theater to raise the funds needed to keep Jessica on board in 2010. Will you help us with a contribution?

We think you will agree that keeping an executive director is essential to our victory moving forward.

Jessica Podhola is already hard at work on behalf of the 2010 Democratic ticket, so please take a few moments and make a generous donation in support of her efforts. Whatever level of support, your contribution will be greatly appreciated.

Jessica lives in Independence with her husband and two children. She is active in the Independence School District PTA and President of Unity of Independence.