ENDORSEMENTS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

You may be eligible to receive CCF’s endorsement if you:

• are seeking a state legislative or statewide office in Washington during the 2026 election cycle

• will prioritize the needs of children, youth, and families

• have completed our short candidate questionnaire 

• have completed a one-hour interview via video call with members of CCF’s board and staff

 

NOTE: At this time, we do not endorse any other positions and will decline your request if you try scheduling for anything other than what’s noted above. CCF additionally reserves the right to decline requests from candidates deemed out of alignment with our values, vision, and priorities.

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WHAT MAKES A CCF ENDORSED CANDIDATE?

CCF’s Board of Directors ultimately votes on our endorsement decisions. In some races, we may offer a dual endorsement or choose not to support any candidate at all. Our decisions are based on a combination of your interview responses, actions/votes of incumbents, your campaign platform and opponent(s), and demonstrated leadership across CCF’s core issue areas: 

• Basic needs (including physical health, behavioral health, safety, housing, and nutrition)

• Child care, early learning, and family support

• Child welfare

• Intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)

• Juvenile justice reform

• Youth development

 

FOR INCUMBENTS: Please note that receiving a past endorsement does not guarantee renewal, and you are eligible for support even without a prior endorsement.

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WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU HAVE BEEN ENDORSED?
We are eager to highlight endorsement announcements on our website, social media, and other digital communications to our network. The majority of our endorsed candidates will receive a financial contribution through our affiliated PAC, Children's Campaign Victory Fund.

 

A small number of candidates in certain jurisdictions may receive Independent Expenditure support. 
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HOW DO I REQUEST AN ENDORSEMENT?
If you are running for a state legislative or statewide office during the 2026 election cycle in Washington State, and meet the other criteria detailed above, you may request an endorsement interview by emailing Kelly Edens, kelly@childrenscampaignfund.org.

 

For any questions or concerns, please contact Kelly Edens, kelly@childrenscampaignfund.org.

Thank you for leading on behalf of children, youth, and families – and for your interest in our support!