WA Institute for a Democratic Future – November 5, 2025

In this Issue:

• Join us for our 2025 Election Recap on Nov. 20!
• Applications due November 11!
•  🌵LAST CALL: Arizona Extended Learning Trip🌵 
• Help Us Keep the Door Open for Every Future Leader

Join us for our 2025 Election Recap on Nov. 20!

2025 has been a year for Washington, for the nation, and for democracy itself.

As the dust settles, we invite you to an evening of sharp analysis, local insight, and real talk about where we’re headed next.

Our annual Election Recap brings together political pros, community voices, and alumni to unpack the results, explore voter trends, and discuss what the outcomes mean for 2026 and beyond.

Event Details:

• Individual Attendee | $25
• Individual Sponsor | $250 – includes 4 tickets + co-branding + event shoutouts
• Organizational Sponsor | $350 – includes member discount code + logo placement

Reserve your spot or sponsorship now

A big thank you to our sponsors: Hacks & Wonks Podcast, Blue City Blues Podcast, Seattle Nice Podcast, 37th Legislative District Democrats, and the 34th Legislative District Democrats!

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Applications due November 11!

The Washington Institute for a Democratic Future (WAIDF) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Fellowship Class!

In times of chaos, we organize. Because it takes all of us to build a better future and create an ecosystem of leaders in politics, business, government, and public service, working together for progress.

WAIDF is a premier leadership development program that has prepared more than 700 leaders for careers in public service, politics, advocacy, and civic engagement across Washington state and beyond. Fellows spend six months learning directly from policymakers, community leaders, and experts while building a strong, lifelong network of peers and providing the tools and knowledge to mobilize. 

What we’re looking for:
Applicants between the ages of 21 and 39 who are passionate about civic engagement, equity, and community leadership. Ideal candidates possess a combination of professional or volunteer achievements, unique life experiences, and a strong desire to contribute to Washington’s civic and political life.

How to apply:
The application includes a resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation, with select candidates invited to interview in early December. Our process is designed to highlight your leadership potential, community connections, and commitment to equity.

Deadline: Tuesday, November 11, 2025

📩Apply today and take the next step in shaping Washington’s future.

Questions? Reach us at info@democraticfuture.org.

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 🌵LAST CALL: Arizona Extended Learning Trip 🌵

November 13 – 16, 2025 • Phoenix, AZ

This is your last chance to join WAIDF’s Arizona Learning Trip! Applications close soon, and full payment is due by midnight tonight. Don’t miss your spot for this unforgettable civic adventure.

Reconnect with alumni, meet Arizona’s political and community leaders, and explore the movements shaping the Southwest, all with tacos, sunshine, and a few desert sunsets included.

Why Arizona?

We’re meeting the people driving change in one of the most dynamic political regions in the country:

• AZ Governor’s Office of Strategic Planning & Budgeting — fiscal strategy meets policy vision.
• Ruben Reyes, Political Advisor for Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva-Elect (still, yes, seriously) — on border politics, representation, and the release of the Epstein Files.
• Arizona Democratic Leadership Panel — coalition-building and governing in the minority.
• Charlene Fernandez, AZ Democratic Party Chair — grassroots organizing and candidate recruitment.
• Mayor Corey Woods, City of Tempe — housing, innovation, and sustainability.
• Rory Steele, Freedom to Learn Foundation — education policy and democracy in action.

And of course, pool time, connection, and great food!

Trip Details:

• Core Programming: Nov 14 – 15 (arrive Thurs; depart Sun)
• Hotel: Renaissance Phoenix Downtown (Marriott brand)
• 📍 100 N 1st St, Phoenix, AZ 85004

Trip Fees (3 nights):

• Single: $1,199 | Double: $599 | Triple: $399 | Quad: $299
• ✈️ Flights booked separately by attendees.

Deadlines:

• Full payment due by by 11:59 p.m. tonight (Nov. 5)
• $25 application fee required

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Help Us Keep the Door Open for Every Future Leader

In moments like these, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The pace and harm of national politics, the cruelty, chaos, and fear many communities feel, it can make it hard to know what to do.

But we can take action right now by supporting the WAIDF Scholarship Fund.

Your gift helps ensure cost is never the reason someone can’t say “yes” to the Washington Institute for a Democratic Future. Every dollar reduces tuition, offsets travel for fellows across the state, and helps our cohorts reflect the full diversity of Washington’s communities.

This season, we’re working to raise $10,000 by December 31 for the Class of 2026.

Together, we can meet this moment with determination, because every fellow we support is one more leader ready to defend democracy, strengthen communities, and build a more just future for Washington State

Give today to the WAIDF Scholarship Fund.

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