I am Lucas Luzietti and I was asked to run for Congress…
...but I can't because I'm 20 years old (although I definitely would have said yes). Someone from the Democratic Party called me, not realizing I wasn't 25 yet, and asked if I wanted to run for Congress since the current candidate was dropping out. When I told them I couldn’t, they asked if I knew anyone who might be interested. I hung up, thought about it for a minute, and then picked up the phone and called Yen Bailey, someone I've known my whole life.
Yen is an ethics attorney who graduated from Florida State University Law School and Tulane University, and she's super active in the community. She has the integrity and dedication we really need in today’s political climate.
The situation in Florida's CD-2 is pretty unique. It's not often that a nominee drops out after qualifying, and a new candidate like Yen Bailey steps up. This unexpected turn offers a great opportunity for fresh leadership and to get people excited about the election again. Yen's entrance comes at a time when Democrats really need someone to step up, and voters are hungry for change and more transparency from their officials.
Yen's story is all about resilience and justice. She’s a first-generation American from Destin, Florida, raised by South Vietnamese refugees. Her family saw democracy and freedom fall apart firsthand. Her dad, a South Vietnamese air force pilot, fled with his crew and dozens of others on his plane when Saigon fell. Other family members faced huge challenges to come to America fleeing communist oppression. This experience gave Yen’s family a deep love and appreciation for America. Her parents became American citizens and voted in every election. These ideals have always driven Yen, giving her a spirit of service, faith in democracy, and a determination to protect everyone’s rights.
Yen’s career as an ethics attorney shows her strong moral compass. She’s always pushed for transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, making her an ideal candidate for Congress, especially now, when trust in institutions is plummeting. Yen wants to give a voice to the voiceless. She is committed to always speaking her mind and fighting for those often ignored by politicians. Even though she’s not a career politician, she has always worked tirelessly for others without seeking attention. Her dedication to community service and standing up for what’s right has guided her career and personal life. She worked with the Guardian ad Litem Program, advocating for kids in the court system, showing her willingness to stand up for the vulnerable.
To officially enter the race, Yen also needs to raise her qualifying fee, which adds another layer of challenge but also an opportunity for the community to rally behind her.
Yen will be up against Neal Dunn, a Congressman since 2016, whose time in office has been marked by no significant legislative achievements. His record includes objecting to the certification of the 2020 election and substantial financial backing from energy, insurance, and pharmaceutical lobbies.
The Congressional race in Florida's CD-2 is more than just a political contest; it’s a fight for the soul of our democracy. Yen represents a new generation of leaders committed to the values that are so important to the average American.
I am honored to be Yen Bailey’s campaign manager at such a crucial time in our nation’s history.
Yen's ActBlue Link
Florida Politics Article about Yen's Candidacy