Gina Buckley for Member-at-Large, Voting Representative, Alternate Voting Represenative - Porto

I am deeply motivated to pursue a leadership position within Democrats Abroad Portugal because I believe in the power of grassroots organizing to mobilize and empower voters. Having dedicated myself to election work and voter outreach since 2020, I am committed to ensuring that every eligible American abroad has the opportunity to cast their ballot and make their voice heard.

During the 2020 election, I worked as a Satellite Election Office worker in Centre County, Pennsylvania, where I helped facilitate safe and accessible voting during the COVID-19 pandemic. This role required strong organizational and leadership skills to maintain an efficient and effective workplace that served thousands of voters during a critical moment for our democracy. I have also been an active volunteer with NextGen America, engaging in phone and text banking, postcard writing, and voter registration efforts to mobilize young voters (ages 18-35).

I firmly believe in the mission of the Democratic Party and the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Americans—the right to love freely, worship without fear, make personal decisions about our own bodies, and protect the one and only planet we call home. This commitment drives my passion for voter engagement and advocacy. As an Executive Committee member, I would channel this passion into action, leveraging my expertise in event organization, marketing, and public speaking to expand outreach efforts and energize our community. I hold a Ph.D. in Anthropology and Demography from Penn State and I am currently an Associated Researcher at the University of Algarve. My background in research and data analysis, combined with my ability to connect with diverse communities, makes me well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to Democrats Abroad Portugal.

I first learned about Democrats Abroad Portugal through social media and was immediately drawn to its active role in the community and its commitment to keeping overseas voters informed and engaged. In late 2024, I stepped into an Executive Committee role within the organization, and I have already become a dedicated member of the team, learning the ropes and actively contributing to our mission. Given the devastating results of the 2024 election and the ongoing attacks on democracy, my commitment to voter engagement has never been stronger. I am particularly passionate about empowering those in the "digital nomad" community, an oftentimes isolating experience, to ensure they have the knowledge and tools they need to be actively engaged in upcoming elections. At the same time, I am committed to reaching voters of all ages, genders, and occupations, ensuring that every eligible American abroad has access to the resources they need to make their voices heard.

If elected, I will bring fresh energy, organizational expertise, and a strategic approach to outreach and engagement. I am eager to contribute to Democrats Abroad Portugal’s mission and strengthen our community’s impact in the fight for democracy. 

Camilo Cornejo for Treasurer - Porto

What are two things that you like about Democrats Abroad Portugal, and why? I like that DAPT aims to educate people living in Portugal on how to vote and get involved in the direction of the politics in the USA. The USA more than ever needs all citizens to get involved and DAPT provides the tools for those living abroad to be part of the solution.

Why do you want to be a voluntary leader of Democrats Abroad Portugal? I believe that in order to pursue change in the future we need to maintain and improve our organization. I can do my part by using my experience on finance to help manage the group resources and optimize its use in order to increase DAPT’s impact. 

What experiences, personal attributes and technical competencies do you bring to the position(s) you seek? One of my passions is managing finances and helping people and organizations become better at managing this limited resource. I am a highly organized person with diligence; I have ample expertise utilizing financial tools and other software to organize financial data and develop easy to understand reports for all interested parties. 

As an officer or Executive Committee member, how would you contribute to Democrats Abroad Portugal and help it grow? I would like to continue my contribution to DAPT by making use of my expertise on financial matters. Help to manage resources so the rest of the organization can be as efficient and effective as possible in its aim to get supporters of the democratic party believes living abroad to vote in the USA elections. 

Billy Easton for Member-at-Large and DPCA Voting Representative - Caldas da Rainha 

I am a candidate because it is vitally important that we are active in shaping the world we live in and the future of the United States. I am a strong progressive and believe that the Democratic Party needs a proactive agenda to address the real problems people face in their lives. The political situation in the U.S. is frightening and the future of the idea of democracy is imperiled. This can be disheartening, but we must find and use our power together. 

I am a candidate for two positions: Executive Committee member-at-large and Democratic Party Committee Abroad Voting Representative. These positions have separate and complementary responsibilities and, I am told, can (and at times have) be held by the same person. The Executive Committee position would allow me help shape and contribute to the work of DA Portugal. The DPCA Voting Representative would allow me to represent you as a voting member of Dems Abroad committee worldwide -- in addition to the Chair and Vice Chair.

I had the pleasure of working with many of you during the election campaign when I ran the phone bank operation for Democrats Abroad Portugal. I provided coordination, training and support to phone bankers. We had 65 phone bank volunteers and made over 15,000 completed calls, making us one of the top performing countries in Dems Abroad. When this wound up, I played a key role, as part of a team, in helping lead a second phase of phone banking where we recruited and trained volunteers to phone voters in swing states in the U.S.  I provided training for over 200 volunteers, and we made over 35,000 calls in the final weeks of the campaign.

I spent 40 years involved in organizing for social justice in the United States, including over 35 years doing it as my full-time job. I was the Executive Director of two different statewide advocacy organizations in New York and a citywide coalition in Los Angeles, one which is focused on tenant rights and two whose mission is educational equity. I ran large scale legislative advocacy campaigns where we had major victories on state, federal and local issues such as winning billions of dollars in additional funding for high need schools, protecting public housing and publicly funded housing from privatization, winning progressive taxation by raising taxes on millionaires and billionaires, and protecting rent control in NYC. I spent seven years as a union organizer and have worked on, and helped run, many political campaigns. Currently, I do consulting in New York State on legislative strategy for the New York Civil Liberties Union. 

My wife and I moved to Caldas da Rainha 2 ½ years ago and love it in Portugal. We are here for the long haul. Between us we have 5 children and 7 grandchildren living in the U.S. The thing I have missed most about the U.S. is being able to be politically active, Democrats Abroad provides an opportunity for me to do this.

Darcy Edmundson-Andrade for Member-at-Large, Voting Representative, Alternate Voting Represenative - Queijas 

I moved to Portugal in 1993 to take a job playing horn with the Gulbenkian Orchestra in Lisbon. I did not intend to stay more than a year but was offered a great contract that included retirement with a full pension at 55. I met my husband here, and we bought a house in Queijas, where we have raised our children. 

I joined DAPT for the first time after Kamala declared her candidacy. I was determined to fight for her and a new way forward and DAPT offered me that opportunity- I worked closely with Christina in Cascais, Terry in Lisbon, and Billy up there on the Silver Coast. Between August and November, voter assistance (online and in person), phone banking, and letter writing became my focus. I set out to reach 10,000 voters here and at home. I didn't meet my goal, but I talked to a lot of people.  

I want to continue that work now. Through phone banking, letter writing, and creative outreach, I want to ensure that our overseas voters know how and when to vote and that their vote matters. 

I will do this work whether I am in the ExComm or not. However, I am running because I would like to be involved in discussions about new ways to reach out to voters.  

I am not a tech or communications professional, but I do have extensive experience working as a creator of WordPress, Mighty Networks, and Canva. I also have a talent for creating a community where people feel that they are heard and want to stay connected.

As to the specific question, 'How would I help DAPT grow?' If the ExComm approves it, I would like to create a community app for DAPT on the same platform I use for another community. It would allow us to stay connected and engaged across the country, include all of our essential Zooms, events, and information in one place, and offer an opportunity to get to know each other better. I would like to use my talents to make DAPT a close-knit and vibrant community that is ready to take on the monumental task of the battle ahead.  

Two things I like about DAPT are the opportunity to do the work that needs to be done and the great friends that I have made doing that!   

Elaine Hinman-Sweeney for Member-at-Large - Algarve

Hello.  I live in Cerro do Ouro, a village between Paderne and Ferreiras, in the Algarve.  My US voting state is Florida, although I consider myself New Mexican since I lived there for 20 years with my husband, Lee.  Now we live in Portugal.

So, what do I like about Democrats Abroad.  It’s been great to meet like-minded Americans.  I appreciate others who also want to keep democracy and not fail into fascism.  One of the things I like about Portugal is that it’s a young democracy – people still care about it.  However, frightening things are happening everywhere, including here.  I also enjoy the social aspect of Democrats Abroad.

I’ve only been mildly political in the past, however I have volunteered in conservation activities, such as citizen science in tracking bears and mountain lions in New Mexico.  I’ve supported efforts to create pathways for nature (lions, bobcats, others) to traverse connected portions of land and be protected from highways.  In 2016 I went to Argentina to track pumas on a research expedition.  It’s possible that I will go on another expedition in Bhutan later this year for a couple of weeks. I also support cat rescue and help take care of a local colony in Cerro do Ouro.

I am reasonably good at using computers.  I can get around the Microsoft Office suite pretty well.  My background is in Mechanical (Doctorate) and Aerospace (Bachelors, Masters) Engineering.  I have organized conferences for AIAA and have done some simple (pre-css) web design for the Society of Women Engineers Houston conference.  I set up a webpage called MountainLionLady.com using WordPress when I was doing mountain lion research although its now out of date (there aren’t mountain lions/pumas) here, although there are lynxes, so I will be looking into that!  I’ve also done some teaching at the freshman and graduate levels. 

Recently, I supported DAPT GOTV efforts and went to a few activities in the Algarve.  I was able to help people get their FPCAs submitted online and help people check their voting status.

I try to tell any American liberal that I meet that there is a Democrats Abroad in Portugal that will help them receive their ballots and help them get their votes counted.

As much as I hate the swamp that Xitter has become, I am still interested in helping with the Social Media or Communications activities.

Carolina Medina for Member-at-Large - Porto

 My name is Carolina Medina and I'm excited to be running for the Member-at-Large position focused on Membership Engagement.  I've been an active member of Democrats Abroad Portugal (DAPT) since November 2023 and have consistently been impressed by the dedication and passion of our community. I very much appreciate the platform that DAPT gives us to serve our civic duties and have a voice in the direction of our home country and its large influence over the world. However, I also recognize that we have opportunities to further strengthen our connections across Americans living in Portugal and create an even more vibrant and inclusive environment for all members.

My background in strategy development, event planning, and community building has provided me with valuable critical thinking, organizational and interpersonal skills that I believe would be beneficial in this role.  For example, last year as a DAPT super volunteer, I helped create a team to organize a millennial event in Porto and a social media campaign to expand our membership diversity. In 2020, while working at Bayer, I created a partnership with the 10000 pencils NGO and organized a successful fundraising event that resulted in a $12,000 donation to the project “Quiero Estudiar” to build a computer lab in Ecuador and ensure a girl’s orphanage had access to continue with their education virtually during the pandemic.

I'm particularly passionate about increasing DAPT membership through attracting members from diverse backgrounds and age groups that truly represent what USA looks like. I believe that by deliberately developing targeted outreach strategies that include more interactive and inclusive events, and utilizing social media more effectively, we can significantly enhance member diversity, tap into digital talent from tech savvy volunteers, and ensure that everyone feels valued and connected.

I'm a highly motivated and collaborative individual with a strong desire to contribute to the values of DAPT and change the future of our country and consequently the world. I'm confident that I can bring my organizational skills, strategic mindset, and energy to the Member-at-Large position and work effectively with the executive committee and other members to achieve our shared goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to serve our community.

Terry Recht for Member-at-Large - Lisbon

I moved to Lisbon from Southern California in early 2019 and joined Democrats Abroad. The impetus back then was the first election of DJT and I was worried about democracy in the US. There were just a handful of us who got together at casual events and helped individuals to register to vote, but we weren’t recognized by Democrats Abroad Global because we did not have a country committee. So we fixed that in March 2021 by holding an election - while still in covid. I ran for the office of Counsel and was elected. For the next two years, we held many get-togethers, coloring postcard events, created a video - “18 Reasons to Vote from Abroad,” and enjoyed spending time with Global DNC guests at a local winery. In 2023, I ran for a Member at Large position and was elected. In this role, I brought Lisbon Dems together for events with the help of many volunteers. We held a 4th of July picnic, a Global Presidential Primary and several ballot events designed to assist voters in Portugal register to vote and get their ballot counted.   

After 4 years in an eIected position, I am interested in running again for a Member at Large working with Lisbon/Portugal dems and continuing to increase our Democrats Abroad Portugal membership and getting our votes counted.  I offer history, continuity and think I have been around longer that anyone in a leadership capacity. We have our work cut out for us. 

I respectfully ask for your vote as a Member at Large! Thank you!  

Patrick J. Redding, Member-at-Large -  Caminho do Colmeal Poente

I was born in 1953 in Norfolk, Virginia.  I am a Retired Attorney and am married to Carol, also Retired Attorney, and we have four children and 2 grandchildren.  My Wife is a lifelong Democrat.  I have taken a more circuitous route to my current Democrat status!

I grew up in a rural, conservative area, heavily Republican.  The 50’s/60’s presented it’s own set of challenges, most notably Kennedy’s election and assassination, the Civil Rights movement, the Vietnam war and subsequent protests and the discovery of “Sex, Drugs & Rock and Roll”.  These left a lasting impression on a young lad turned 15 in 1968.  My mother and father were Democrat and Republican respectively, thus family political discussion were never boring!  I registered as a Republican at age 18 as my Father was a local political officer (Borough Council and later Mayor of Chambersburg).  Passing the bar in October of 1978, I was employed by the local Republican State Representative in his law office and began a successful legal career that spanned over 40 years leading to the formation of my own law office and the ownership and operating of a small cable construction company. 

My background includes being active in state and local politics.  I was sponsored by and worked for the local PA Republican House Representative for 4 years as District Administrative Assistant.  My duties included voter registration, liaison with local officials, organizing poll workers for elections, representing the county office in various legal issues including recount petitions, challenges, etc. utilizing my legal background and practice.  I was a liaison with state and federal officials and politicians.  I was also local campaign chairman for Reagan in 1980.  Additionally, I served as State Advocate for the Knights of Columbus which allowed me to use my legal skills to advocate for various political issues including immigrant rights, women’s rights, minority rights, etc.  My leisure activities included officiating multiple sports at the High School and College/University levels including Football, Baseball, Basketball and Volleyball.  I enjoy hiking, sailing and travel.

It was during the 80’s that I watched the direction that the United States was taking and my political views began to change becoming more moderate and liberal and I began to vote consistently for democratic candidates.  As a result, I became less politically involved in the 90’s and ultimately, I formally changed parties in 2009 to Democrat.   

For the past 25 years, my wife and I have lived in Ireland and currently Portugal.  This exposure to European political views has influenced my more moderate and social leanings.  Despite living in Europe, I continue to regularly travel to the United States to visit my 4 children and 2 grandchildren.  I am extremely concerned for them and their futures in the United States as it currently exists and seems to be trending.  It is for this reason that I want to be involved in contributing to the changes that must be made to insure my family’s futures but the future of the United States as well.

In conclusion, I believe with my experiences in law, business, politics, and life in general, that I can provide a positive contribution to Democrats Abroad as it continues to advocate a rigorous defense of those American ideals that are at great risk.  When admitted to the legal profession, I swore a solemn allegiance to the United States of America and made a sacred oath to my God Almighty to defend her Constitution, the greatest written document inspired by men the world has ever known.  I would hope thru service to this well organized and valuable group of individuals with a common goal, this “Auld Fellow” can still contribute to good in any roles that Democrats Abroad might have need.

Lynette Shaw for Chair - Alcobaca

My name is Lynnette Shaw and I’m running for Chair of Democrats Abroad Portugal. Why? Because I believe all of my rights as an LGBTQ person, as a woman, and as an American citizen living abroad are under assault. I’m running because I’m deeply concerned about world stability, about the life savings and economic security of every one of us, and the looming climate catastrophe. I’m running because I know that I can live in Portugal and avoid some of the immediate and direct impacts, but I can’t hide in Portugal. If we have learned anything from the last pandemic, it’s how small the world really is, and that our borders won’t protect us. I’m running because I love my country and the values that we aspire to - however imperfect and fragile. I am running because I care - a LOT.

Let me tell you about who I am and what I think makes me uniquely suited for this role: I moved from Oregon last year with my wife of 18 years, Amy. For many years, I was a small business owner and community volunteer in my rural Oregon home, and my focus has always been on building an inclusive, vibrant, and supportive community. In 2015, out of frustration and concern, I got very involved in local politics and community organizing. Although Oregon is a solidly blue state, we lived in a VERY red-purple county where I learned a lot about how to speak to people who didn’t necessarily agree with me and how to motivate people to action - I learned leadership, teamwork, strategy, and the intricacies of local politics. The idea that “all politics is local” has been directly demonstrated to me. I spent ten years organizing actions large and small, leading volunteer teams, running political projects, strategizing for actions and campaigns, and fundraising for and winning local elections in a very tough environment. I’ve been on boards and in the streets, all with the same goal: to create a community that is fair and just - socially, economically, and politically. This work is more important now than ever. 

What do I want to do during my term? First, I want to build on the excellent foundation that Sally and the entire team have built over the past two years. Portugal is widely viewed as being the most successful country in Democrats Abroad as far as expanding and turning out the vote. But with more than 10,000 Americans here at last count, and just under 2500 members - we still have a lot of work to do. But I don’t see the work as just “turning out the vote.” People around the world are in a state of anxiety - with good reason. The greatest and oldest democracy in the world is being dismantled from the inside. New global alliances are being formed that certainly will change the world we all know. I want to help American citizens in Portugal find community, trust, and agency offline and in person. I want to continue my lifelong efforts of working with a team to build a community reflective of our values and invite people to contribute. It’s time to coalesce, strategize, and prepare for an uncertain future – my goal is to expand and grow the team that will do that.  

I would be honored to be the next Chair of Democrats Abroad Portugal. I hope I can earn your vote and your support. 

Lydia Shoup for Member-at-Large, Voting Representative, Alternate Voting Represenative - Lisbon

As a member of Democrats Abroad Portugal, I deeply appreciate the sense of community and shared purpose that defines our organization. Two aspects that stand out to me are our commitment to voter outreach and our inclusive, action-oriented approach to democracy. By ensuring that U.S. citizens abroad can exercise their right to vote, we play a vital role in strengthening democracy back home.

With a background as an experienced copywriter, I have spent years crafting compelling messaging that informs, engages, and mobilizes audiences. My skills in communication and content strategy would be invaluable in expanding our reach, increasing engagement, and inspiring action among our members. Additionally, my passion for human rights and social support aligns with the core values of Democrats Abroad, and I am committed to using my expertise to shine a light on these crucial issues. 

As Vice Chair or Member At Large, I would focus on strengthening communications and outreach efforts, ensuring that our messaging is not only clear and persuasive but also inclusive and rousing. Whether through social media, newsletters, or event promotion, I would work to engage both long-standing members and those who may be looking for a way to get involved for the first time. By leveraging my writing and content strategy experience, I hope to help Democrats Abroad Portugal grow, mobilize voters, and drive meaningful change. 

I am particularly interested in roles related to communications, outreach, and advocacy, where I can help shape our messaging and expand our impact. I would be honored to contribute to the mission of Democrats Abroad Portugal and help advance our shared vision for a more just, equitable, and engaged democratic community.

I appreciate your consideration and look forward to the opportunity to serve. 

Derek Sinns for Vice Chair -  Lisbon

I am a gay man who votes in Texas and now calls Lisbon home, having moved here with my husband. As a millennial who has come of age during multiple economic crises, witnessed the legalization of same-sex marriage, and seen the subsequent backlash against our hard-won rights, I bring both digital native skills and a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing our generation. Witnessing continuous attacks on LGBTQ rights—including our fundamental right to marry the person we love—as well as challenges to women's right to choose, birthright citizenship, and the protection of minority communities, I cannot sit back while these critical issues are under assault. My personal journey has been shaped by these struggles, and I am determined to use my vote and voice to make a difference. I believe that every voice matters, and I am committed to building a stronger, united community in Portugal, especially among those who have relocated here due to concerns about the state of the U.S. government and others considering the move. 

My professional background in customer success, marketing, and account management has given me the skills needed for effective community building, strategic outreach, and digital communications. This experience, combined with my generational perspective on leveraging social media and digital platforms for community engagement, positions me uniquely to connect with younger Americans abroad. Through my active involvement with Democrats Abroad Portugal—participating in phone banking during the 2024 election and hosting an event in Lisbon—I have witnessed firsthand how grassroots organizing can engage voters and make a meaningful impact. These experiences have deepened my commitment and provided practical insights into mobilizing Americans living abroad. 

Since settling in Portugal, I've actively immersed myself in the local community. Through volunteering with Speak Social, I've helped non-English speakers develop language skills crucial for global connection. My work at the local library has given me valuable insights into community needs and fostered relationships with both locals and expatriates. These experiences have enhanced my understanding of the diverse perspectives within our international community and the importance of building bridges across cultural boundaries.

As Vice Chair, my focus will be on expanding our membership and enhancing our digital outreach through concrete, actionable initiatives. I envision implementing a comprehensive digital strategy that includes regular virtual town halls, targeted social media campaigns, and an enhanced newsletter program to keep our community informed and engaged. I plan to nurture and grow our meetup groups beyond the Lisbon area, strengthening connections with Americans in Porto, the Algarve, and other regions across Portugal. Through a combination of digital tools and in-person events, we can deepen engagement within our existing communities while naturally expanding our membership base through meaningful connections and shared purpose. 

I aim to increase our voter registration efforts by 25% in the coming year through targeted outreach campaigns and partnerships with other expat organizations. Additionally, I want to launch a mentorship program connecting newly arrived Americans with established community members, helping ease their transition and encouraging civic engagement from day one. Working alongside other European DA chapters, we can share best practices and coordinate our efforts for maximum impact. 

I want to ensure that our message reaches not only long-standing members but also those in my community who are newly abroad or considering a move to Portugal due to political and social concerns in the U.S. By leveraging my professional expertise, millennial perspective on digital engagement, and personal passion, I plan to launch initiatives that empower our members to engage actively and support one another in our shared mission. I am eager to help guide Democrats Abroad Portugal toward a future where every vote, every action, and every voice plays a vital role in defending our rights and values. 

Michele Van Eyken for Secretary - Porto

I’m pleased to have the opportunity to (re)introduce myself to the membership of Democrats Abroad in Portugal and to describe for you my interest in continuing as Secretary of this dynamic organization. 

I was asked about serving on the Executive Committee of DAPT at my first get-together after moving to Porto in June of 2023– and I jumped at the chance.  When the term, “secretary” was mentioned, I knew I’d found my niche. 

Two Things I Like a Lot About DA Portugal:  First, the social event was important.  DA members are convivial; we work hard and enjoy each other’s company.  I’ve made wonderful friends through my work with DAPT; it has greatly supported my transition to my new country. Second, the Secretary position utilizes my strengths.    Helping people to understand the importance of voting and influencing policy are two of my passions, but I’m a “behind the scenes” sort of person.

Experiences, Personal Attributes, Technical Competencies:  DAPT is the sixth organization for which I have served as secretary.  Just before moving here, I finished out my term as the secretary of the Davis, California chapter of the League of Women Voters.  The role allows me to participate in and influence policy, feeding my “wonkiness”.  It meets my need to stay busy during meetings; writing down what I’m hearing helps me remember information.  The task also matches my ability to sort through information quickly and to summarize it concisely for others.  I perfected a format for note-taking which several of the organizations I worked for have adopted. 

Contributions to DAPT:   After being elected, I learned about DAPT membership coordination.  I have verified and sent a Welcome Letter to about half of current DAPT members.  I also successfully managed this year’s membership count, reaching near the top ten percent in accuracy among DA’s 148 member countries.  I don’t want what I learned by working with the global database to be lost after just a year. 

Helping DAPT Grow:  The last decade has brought two realities into sharp relief for me.  The first is, I want to live in Europe, because for the first time since my Peace Corps years, I’m able to contribute to the global society of which I’m a part.  The second is, I’ve learned our democracy is both precious and fragile.  I understand the Democratic Party is not perfect, but it is false to equate its imperfections with the lawlessness and corruption of the alternative.  It would be like giving up on the United States because we have not— yet— fulfilled the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence.  If elected, I will work with the Executive Committee to support the regional communities in staying in touch with each other for accurate information, for support and for action.  Regional growth powers country growth.  The Secretary has an important role to play by sending out communications, documenting events and helping to ensure that the principles of the Democratic Party are adhered to in our work.

Rick Word for DPCA Voting Representative, Alternate DPCA Voting Representative and Counsel - Cascais

Hello fellow DAPT members.  My name is Rick Word and I seek your support to serve in one of three elected positions on the Executive Committee: DPCA Voting Representative, Alternate DPCA Voting Representative, or Counsel.  I believe I have the time, energy, skills, and perhaps most importantly, the passion to serve you and DAPT well in one of those capacities.  Many if not most of us agree that the Trump administration, now with the almost total complicity of the Republican Party, poses perhaps the greatest threat to US democracy in our nation’s history. I share the even bleaker assessment that we are experiencing a new form of administrative coup that, if not stopped, will lead to an authoritarian regime or a dictatorship. I refuse to be a mere bystander, and look forward to working with others in DAPT in whatever capacity to organize the growing number of American voters living in this country to resist. 

Our family first lived in Porto in 2019 during my wife and fellow DA member Laura Brown’s Fulbright fellowship in Portugal. We began planning the move to Portugal soon after returning home to Santa Fe, New Mexico.  We were finally able to move here in June of 2023, and happily live a car-free life with our teenaged daughter in the compact and convivial Fontaínhas barrio of Cascais that we affectionately call “Busytown”. Our son in his first year of university back in the US.

I have been an attorney for more than 35 years, working primarily as a public servant in New Mexico and Texas representing democratic elected officials in state and local government, as well as serving as counsel for regulatory agencies both big and small. I have experience and expertise in consumer protection law, administrative procedure, open records and open meetings law, and the enforcement of state and local environmental and land use regulations. I also have extensive experience advising and representing public boards and commissions, and have served as an election observer for the State of New Mexico. I am proud to have served as one of the “faceless bureaucrats” and “regulators” reviled by the current administration.

As a citizen I have been actively engaged in progressive grass-roots and democratic electoral campaigns for my entire adult life. I have worked hard as a serial volunteer for Democratic and progressive candidates in local, state and federal elections I was thrilled to find DAPT during the dark days of the 2024 election.  It proved to be a well run, welcoming organization offering meaningful and convenient opportunities to engage in impactful campaign work. (No mean feat!) I came to love the sense of community and solidarity that grows with every DAPT action or event I have joined.   While I choose to live in Portugal and not the US, I am committed to fight the loss of our democracy, the dismantling of our constitutional form of government and of our essential agencies, the scapegoating or vilification of any group on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender(s), sexual orientation, views on religion or politics, or immigration status.  Thank you for voting to allow me to serve as DPCA Voting Representative, Alternate DPCA Voting Representative, or Counsel.  Let’s work together within DAPT to help realize the true promise of our country. 

Em solidariedade!

Nathan Wundermann for Vice Chair, Member-at-Large and DPCA Voting Representative - Cascais

Ola os todos.  My name is Nathan Wundermann (if you prefer, you can call me Nate).  I was born in Uccle, Belgium, and immigrated to Los Angeles with my parents when I was six.  I was educated there all the way up to college (which included a stint in student government at Los Angeles City College & another with Trojan Democrats at the University of Southern California).  The majority of my professional life was in the Swiss watch industry.  I currently own and operate a boutique digital comic book publisher, wundermancomics.com, hold a USSF national ‘D’ coaching license, and teach adult ESL via lapl.org. I am glad to see that Democrats Abroad is a thing, as there was no such thing during my stint in Switzerland (1991-3), whereas our opposition did then. I have enjoyed the camaraderie of doing our part with my fellow DAPTers.

Our nation, and by extension, our world faces an existential threat from Hair Furor (he does not deserve the dignity of called by his surname until it has the same meaning as Quisling) and his creepy crew of a historic nature.  It is long past due that Democrats everywhere embrace this basic fact: American politics is not a Marquess of Queensbury match with an impartial referee, but a down and dirty street fight where the only thing matters is who wins.  I am determined to render whatever aid I can to this end.  Integral to this is expanding the reach and numbers of DAPT, particularly amongst Millennials and successive cohorts.  This means outreach to them via the media formats they consume, and it must be mobile friendly.

Teamwork is something I value highly as an integral part of successful outcomes, be it in the corporate sphere, the soccer field, or politics.  I was proud to be a part of the Cascais pod’s voter aid events, manning my printer/scanner.  From now until at least the 2026 midterms, our volunteer-powered organization will need to be laser-focused turning out as many Democratic voters as possible – considering there are nearly seventy toss-up races in the House (including the one I vote in, NV-3, which Susie Lee won in 2024 by 10,220), and at least five in the Senate.

Nor is our work confined to just voter turnout, as advocacy for Americans in Portugal will undoubtedly need to continue.  This point is highlighted by the recently introduced SAVE Act, which features the requirement that voters provide proof of US citizenship every time they vote.  How this will work, or not, with UOCAVA remains to be seen.  Knowing our opposition, who are aware that overseas voters trend against them (Hair Furor ranted against overseas voting during the 2024 election), do not be surprised if they connive to suppress our votes.  

I thank you all for your due consideration of my candidacy.