DC voters have twice elected Democrat Paul Strauss as Shadow Senator to fight for our city’s rights against a hostile Congress.

He took the lead on fighting Republican attempts to impose regressive right-wing tax changes on DC. In doing so, he generated national attention to DC’s lack of voting rights and self-government.

Strauss has also fought the Bush agenda in the Senate on issues ranging from discrimination against the LGBT community, voting rights for DC residents, and a woman’s right to choose.

He’s fought for and helped win increased federal support for DC’s Courts to help fight crime. He’s been a tireless advocate for the Tuition Assistance Program (TAG), which helps send thousands of DC’s students to the college of their choice.

Strauss worked closely with House member Tom Davis (R-VA) to help move the DC House Voting Rights Act (S. 1257) through both the House and the Senate.  After passing in the House of Representatives and the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, the Act remains in the senate, with a 57–42 majority approval, only three votes shy of the required 60 votes needed to approve the bill.

Strauss will use his experience and relationships to keep fighting for Democratic policies. He’ll help DC stand up to Congress when they try to trample on our rights.

As a Superdelegate for Barack Obama, Strauss will take our fight for statehood all the way to the Democratic National Convention.

“Even without a vote, Senator Strauss has always been a strong a advocate for the rights of DC voters — rights I will continue to protect as president” - Barack Obama