Jessica Xan DeLoach
President, Young Democrats of Arkansas
From working to engage young voters in the political process to helping elect quality candidates around the state, the Young Democrats of Arkansas has served as a political home to many of our state’s greatest political thinkers and leaders. Serving as a coordinating body, training ground and valuable resource tool for our members, our organization provides young people with firsthand experience in a wide variety of activities ranging from campaigns and elections, grassroots organizing, fundraising, convention planning, candidate support and policy implementation. The Young Democrats of Arkansas have been the life of the party for more than 70 years.
On Power
People often underestimate the power of truth, the strength of a unified voice and the power of a vote. I felt most powerful when I discovered the importance of being true to myself.
A true sign of power is the ability to remain humbled by just how small we are within the universe but mindful of how our choices and actions can significantly impact the world around us.
On Motivation
I love politics, public service and policy. Being able to spend my time campaigning for quality candidates and seeking creative solutions to the problems that our state faces supercharges me.
I am working to establish a non-political progressive think-tank—the Center for a Better Arkansas. I want to promote honest conversations about creative ways to address our state’s needs.
On Success
I’m on the right path toward accomplishing my dreams, but I already consider myself successful because I have a happy life, and that is priceless.
Typical Weekend
Currently, my weekends are fairly unpredictable, but one thing is definitely certain—and that is the fact that I don’t get to sleep in! When you’re in full-on campaign mode, your days start early and end late. In between the rise and fall, there are meetings, long phone calls, nonstop visiting with constituents, community events and everything else that comes with life. Whenever a little free time surfaces, though, I cook, go for walks with my sweetheart and spend time with our awesome dog, Scout.
The Quiz
- Favorite Destination in Arkansas? Let me get back to you after I’ve seen it all.
- Hobbies? Dance and a clear mind, travel with a destination.
- What you are reading now? “Cleopatra” by Stacy Schiff, “Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman” by Robert K. Massie and “Dixie” by Curtis Wilkie.
(See the full list of the 2012 Women to Watch here!)