To better understand what it means to run for office as a New American, and what types of support make a meaningful difference, New American Leaders Action Fund (NALAF) conducted in-depth, post-election interviews with ten endorsed candidates following the 2025 election cycle. These interviews moved beyond win-loss outcomes and captured the motivations, strategies, challenges, and supports that shape New American candidates’ experiences before, during and after an election. 

Inside, you will hear directly from NALAF-endorsed New American candidates about what it really takes to run and win, from navigating bias and fundraising gaps to building community-powered campaigns that can outwork better-funded opponents. Their stories reveal what helps candidates stay in the race, what pushes them to the brink, and which kinds of support moves the needle on representation and long-term leadership.