We are also looking for organizations who are part of the solution—who are working on the ground, making a difference, and who are being entrepreneurial and innovative in the way they solve political problems. NPC is working to change politics as usual, by reaching out to organizations that are making a difference, but don’t have the access to the networks, resources, and relationships they need to thrive.
How does NPC’s work fit into the 2008 elections?
NPC is not about just one candidate solving all of our political problems—the reality is that we need a political infrastructure in place that can help progressives succeed in 2008, 2010, and beyond. Focusing solely on candidates is not enough—being successful requires having a strong progressive media, a leadership pipeline, idea generation, organizing, technology, and many other elements working together. Our goal is to build a powerful movement so that it doesn’t matter who the progressive candidate is—what matters is that we have an infrastructure in place that enables a progressive candidates to succeed and lead effectively.
You’ve been involved with women in politics for a long time, having even worked at EMILY’s List. How does NPC help support women in progressive politics?
NPC is building the next generation of progressive investors and a big part of that is making this group more diverse. Right now, less than 25 percent of political contributions come from women. We believe that if we create a diverse new generation of investors they will invest in new leaders and new ideas, and a big part of that effort is focusing on helping more women become political investors. NPC is very focused on building this next generation and supporting women to be political investors, entrepreneurs and leaders.
How will politics be different if NPC is successful?
Well, it will take a lot less money to create the same type of change people are seeking. NPC’s role is to build a generation of investors that become more strategic with their political and charitable giving, and as their investments become more strategic, it will require less money to have an impact on the political system. At the same time, we are building the next generation of effective, innovative progressive organizations who are creating change and solving problems. If we can make sure that they grow and thrive, we can affect real, long-term strategic political and social change for this country.
