Kris Neely - 142

Hello and Greetings, fellow Democrats!

I truly believe this election is the most critical one we’ve ever faced as a country. I’ve been a proud Democrat since I registered to vote a long time ago, and I’ve lived through challenges that many of our fellow Americans face daily. Here’s my story and why we must see Joe Biden and Kamala Harris win this November.

Personal Journey

Growing up, we were so poor that sometimes, our only food came from what we knew back then as “Welfare.” I know the pain of hunger so severe that I succeeded in eating the paint off the walls more than once. I remember wearing my sister’s pink coat to school because we couldn’t afford one for me when she was sick at home. We barely had enough money for heating, so my mom would sleep on the couch in our one-bedroom apartment to keep the heat bills down. My Mom sewed many of my shirts from scratch.

University was out of reach financially when even public college costs were less than $9,000 a year. I’ve worked my whole adult life paying into Medicare and Social Security, and now I have to watch politicians threaten to tear these safety nets away.

Despite these struggles, one of my proudest moments was when the Library of Congress selected my book for its permanent collection. At the family level, my wife and I have been together for over 28 years (she’s also a committed Democrat!). We have one son (also a Democrat!) who graduated from university with honors. And we have a feisty 19-year-old cat named Archie.

My Work: I have an extensive background of over 30 years in information technology, software design, and business process engineering consulting, and work has taken me around the world and given me first-hand experience in cultures globally.

I’ve won multiple awards for my public speaking and have authored over eight books, including two best-selling books, one of which hit #1 Best Seller status.

Community Service

I serve on the Spokane County Water Conservancy Board, as chair of the City of Spokane’s Urban Forestry Citizens Advisory Committee, on the Urban Forestry Tree Committee, on the Homeless Housing, Operations, and Services Grant Program (HHOS) RFP Review Committee, on the City of Spokane’s Southgate Neighborhood Council, and as an alternate to Spokane’s Community Advisory (CA) Committee.

Before moving to Spokane, I served on the Parks & Recreation, Library, and Friends of the Library committees. My activities for prior campaigns or ballot initiatives have included making donations, talking to citizens, collecting signatures, and distributing campaign/event materials.

I also volunteer with the American Red Cross, teaching International Humanitarian Law (IHL) to Zoom audiences nationwide. I am also a candidate for PCO in my precinct.

Why Joe Biden?

Here’s why I believe re-electing Joe Biden is crucial for us working folks in Washington state and across the country:

Workers’ Rights: My stepdad was a union bulldozer driver who only had work when it didn’t rain. Biden has been a true friend to workers like him, fighting for fair wages and the right to unionize, which is essential for rebuilding the middle class.

Building Infrastructure: Biden’s plans to improve our roads, bridges, and public transport aren’t just talk; they are real, and we’ve seen them create real jobs that pay well and can’t be outsourced. These jobs will help many Americans secure a better life today and in the future.

Healthcare for America: He’s working to make healthcare affordable for everyone, lowering costs, protecting those with pre-existing conditions, and introducing a public option. He is, and he will protect Social Security and Medicare.

Women’s Rights: Biden stands strong with women, defending our rights to make health decisions and pushing for policies supporting working mothers, including expanded childcare.

Voting Rights: We need Joe’s solid moral compass to help America overcome many of the setbacks it has suffered in recent years on this most essential topic.

Defending Our Democracy: Joe’s moral compass and dedication to humanity also help Americans sleep at night, knowing America has the best military on the planet. His experience, leadership, and personal integrity mean that when Joe Biden calls the leader of another country, they’ll take his call — even if it is at three o’clock in the morning. Biden also ensures our worldwide allies know America stands with them and with democracy.

In Closing, I Need Your Help

As I mentioned, service to others is a humbling teacher. And I’m ready to serve in Chicago and fight for Democratic values while ensuring our local voices are heard. I will also work diligently to network with other Democrats who share the interests of our District, Spokane, Eastern Washington, and our State.

Thank you for considering my candidacy and for the privilege of your time and attention.

May I please have your vote?

–Dana M. ‘Kris’ Neely