Newly declared congressional candidate Susannah Randolph has finally made the transition from operative to candidate.
By Jacob Engels
Earlier this week, Susannah Randolph, longtime progressive activist and former District Director for Congressman Alan Grayson, announced her campaign for congress to succeed Grayson in Congressional District 9, now that he is running for U.S. Senate.
Randolph, the wife of Orange County Tax Collector Scott Randolph, has “made her bones” in the trenches of countless progressive causes over the past decade. Mrs. Randolph is now on the clock, here are our six questions.
How long have you wanted to make the jump from operative to public servant?
I have always been a public servant, whether it be as the director of a community non-profit, the leader of an accountability campaign against Rick Scott, or a Congressional district director. Public service is deep in my heart and has always been. The best days of my life have been when I am able to help people.
What has it been like for Scott to be on the other side… Is it weird for you both to be trading places?
Scott is the most supportive husband anyone could ask for and he’s my best friend. I think that people in Central Florida know that we operate as a team but that’s because we are partners in everything we do.
You are a progressive Democrat – tell us how you plan to garner support from across the aisle?
While I’m a strong progressive, I believe in keeping open lines of communication and having respect for even those who might be on the other side of an issue from you. Even if we ultimately disagree, I believe you can learn a lot from people on the other side of an issue.
Is it daunting to be facing a primary opponent who has been on the ballot for several election cycles?
No, because I have a long track record of public service in Central Florida. Everyone who knows me, knows that I work hard and get results. Between that and my strong stance on the issues, I believe our campaign will be successful.
Name one fiscal, social, and national security focus you will have on day one if elected…
Expand the economy from the middle out, not the top down. Fair trade the protects workers, the the environment, and jobs. End tax loopholes for corporations that ship jobs overseas.
Protect our seniors. Allow government to negotiate drug prices. Expand Social Security Benefits.
Invest in our children. Ensure that high-quality pre-Kindergarten programs are available to every child in America. Affordable, High-Quality Child Care
Lightning round – favorite movie and band/music?
Dixie Chicks are always fun. Movie wise, The American President and Tootsie… I watch those pretty frequently – great films.
You can learn more about Susannah’s campaign for congress by clicking here.
Jacob Engels, is the Founder of East Orlando Post & Seminole County Post. He is a seasoned political operative who has led numerous statewide political groups and has worked on several high-profile local, statewide, and national races. Jacob has been interviewed on national television & radio programs, with his work having been featured in the Orlando Sentinel, New York Times, Washington Post, Miami Herald and other publications nationwide. He can be reached at info@eastorlandopost.com
