CD11 State Central Committee Candidates (Delegates)
Females
Males
1. Tracy Pease
Short Bio: I am the founder and President of Allies Becoming Co-Conspirators for Justice. I’m a Precinct Delegate in Hazel Park. Precinct 3. I have been an organizer and field director with For Our Future, Supermajority, Rising Voices as well as working on the re-election of John Bel Edwards in Louisiana in 19, and the Tom Steyer Campaign in 2020.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: If you want to make a change, it starts from WITHIN the Party. We have to build from the BOTTOM of the ballot..UP!
Detailed Campaign Statement: I can’t be BORROWED, BOUGHT or BULLIED. I will use my voice, and my vote FOR THE PEOPLE!
2. Dana Smith
Short Bio: My name is Dana Smith. Currently, I am a two term elected precinct delegate from West Bloomfield , Michigan. I was appointed corresponding secretary from the 11th Congressional District under the leadership of Congresswoman Haley Stevens. I was also appointed to the Oakland County Democratic Party executive committee fort terms.
Campaign Elevator Pitch:
I believe in:
Improving our educational system.
Strengthening our economy.
Protecting women’s reproduction rights.
Eliminating healthcare disparities.
Combating climate change.
Gun reform
Criminal and social justice reform.
Preserving our democracy.
Detailed Campaign Statement: Our country is experiencing perilous times. We need to act now to preserve our constitution. Only we the people can protect ur rights and our privileges. I am committed to this cause for the betterment of our country..
3. Angie Smith
Short Bio: Farmington Public school board member, former recording secretary for CD11. Precinct delegate for precinct 4
Campaign Elevator Pitch: I’m running to make things better for the Democratic Party.
Detailed Campaign Statement: Let’s make a difference by helping our party.
4. Josephine (Josie) Graham
Short Bio: Josie is based in Oak Park, and has a multidisciplinary background in nonprofit studies, criminal legal reform and transformation, and education. She has worked with organizations addressing mass incarceration, education equity, gender-based violence, houselessness, and more. Her primary calling is advancing criminal legal reform and transformation. If elected, Josie will help expand the party’s base to include people from diverse identities and regions, support efforts to make the party more accessible to new members, and contribute to advancing a progressive vision that dismantles systems of oppression while building power across issue areas.
5. Farah Khan
Short Bio: My name is Farah Khan, and I am proud to represent Congressional District 11 (CD-11). For the past 14 years, I have been actively involved in community work at my local mosque, serving on various committees, including as Co-Chair of the Social Committee. I have worked alongside several organizations to rally against war, genocide, and for a Free Palestine. Currently, I serve as a Commissioner on the Farmington Hills Health Commission, the General Secretary of the Pakistan Association of America, and lead event planning for the American Center for Justice, a Yemeni organization advocating for justice in Yemen. I am running for the Michigan Democratic Party State Central Committee to ensure that our party remains committed to justice, equality, and inclusivity—values that should shape both our policies and our actions.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: My name is Farah Khan, I represent CD -11.
I have been deeply involved in pro-peace activism and the fight for human rights and justice. My advocacy has always centered on the belief that freedom, justice, and equality should be fundamental rights for all, not privileges for a few.
If elected, my focus will be on ensuring that these principles are upheld in every aspect of governance. I am committed to making life easier for everyday people by ensuring that resources and support are accessible to everyone – without any division based on color, race, religious beliefs or ethnicity. My goal is to build a system where fairness and justice are not just ideals but lived realities for all.
Let’s work together to create a future where no one is left behind!
6. Rabaab Khattab
Short Bio: I am a Ferndale resident, a proud mom, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Currently, I support my children through their virtual schooling at home while also staying engaged in my community. Last year, I worked on Ahmed A.G. Ghanim’s campaign for Congress in Michigan’s 11th District, where I saw firsthand the power of grassroots organizing and the importance of electing leaders who prioritize justice and inclusion.
I’m running for Michigan Democratic Party Central Committee Delegate because I believe the party needs more voices fighting for justice on all levels—whether it’s addressing climate change, eliminating the influence of money in politics, or advocating for justice in our communities. I am committed to using my experience and passion to help build a more just and equitable future for all.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: I’m running for Michigan Democratic Party Delegate because, as a mom and a member of this community, I’m deeply committed to fighting for justice—on climate, money in politics, and for our neighborhoods. Our families deserve a voice that will stand up and make real change happen. It’s time for bold leaders who truly care to step up.
7. Heidi West
Short Bio: Heidi West
Grew up in Detroit and attended Detroit Public Schools
Masters Degree in Bilingual Education
Public school teacher and Union member in Detroit for over twenty years
Community activist focusing on Education and Immigration Justice, Gun Violence Prevention and Anti-Racist work
Democratic Precinct Delegate for eight years
Running to bring more progressive change and equity to the Democratic Party
Campaign Elevator Pitch: Public school teacher and Union member in Detroit for over twenty years
Community activist focusing on Education and Immigration Justice
Democratic Precinct Delegate for eight years
Running to bring more progressive change and equity to the Democratic Party
Detailed Campaign Statement: My name is Heidi West. I am a Public school teacher and Union member in Detroit for over twenty years. I am also a Community activist focusing on Education and Immigration Justice, Gun Violence Prevention and Anti-racism for over ten years. I have also been a Democratic Precinct Delegate for eight years.
I am running as an alternate to bring more progressive change and equity to the Democratic Party. I feel with all of my experience doing grassroots level work that I am qualified to bring the people’s perspective to the party.
1. A. Mike Flores
I’m dedicated to innovation, inclusivity, and progressive change to advance the values ofthe Michigan Democratic Party. – A. “Mike” Flores is a versatile professional with over two decades of experience spanning the automotive, aerospace, nonprofit, and healthcare sectors. A dedicated advocate for community engagement, Mike has been activelyinvolved in local, state, and national campaigns, connecting with constituents at the coffeetable to listen to their priorities and amplify their voices. In the nonprofit sector, he applies his strategic and financial acumen to create meaningful impact, particularly in healthcare and the LGBTQ+ community.
2. Thomas Russell
Email: thomasSrussell@gmail.com
Short Bio: My awareness and activism on Palestine solidarity began when my church sent me in the in the 1980s to work with the Middle East Council of Churches in Beirut and Jerusalem. Subsequently, I organized and led many educational/solidarity delegations to Palestine in the late 1980s. I am retired and live in Bloomfield Township having worked in the United Methodist Church and the federal judiciary in Washington, D.C. I am a member of the Michigan Democratic Party and the Oakland County Democratic Party.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: I want to work for a Democratic Party that is truly democratic and progressive including Palestine.
3. Adam Duberstein
Short Bio: Dr. Adam Duberstein is a clinical psychologist, educator, small business owner, and proud union member (AFT Local #6618) who is honored to run with the Solidarity Coalition. He is a lifelong Democrat and a former elected official, as he was elected to the Hazel Park District Library Board where he served from 2020-2024. Since 1999, Adam has worked on political campaigns for Democratic candidates in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. He is proud to be part of our party and wants to use his background to help our candidates win!
Campaign Elevator Pitch: We have to make sure the party supports our candidates, and I’ll do that by helping candidates to craft winning campaign plans. With 25 years of experience in campaigning and organizing, and with my background in psychology, I have the skills to help Democrats win.
Detailed Campaign Statement: We need state central committee members and Congressional District committee members dedicated to helping our candidates get their messages out using creative strategies. I want Democrats to knock on every door and to engage with every voter. People need to understand how our ideas save them money and time while improving their overall quality of life. As Democrats, we need to engage a variety of voters and show them why our candidates and our ideas are the ones that will keep our communities and our country afloat during these turbulent times.
4. Richard Robbins
Email: Rer.480@gmail.com
Short Bio: UAW member, lifelong Democrat. Former planning commissioner, currently president of Hazel Park District library board of trustees. Former CAP chair UAW local 869.
Campaign Statement: I am standing with all my brother and sister Democrats in opposing the world that Trump and Musk are creating. We need to fight hard for our Democracy!
5. Alex Meyers
Short Bio: Alex Meyers is a versatile attorney and musician with a passion for public service, social justice, and the arts. A graduate of Detroit Mercy Law, Alex has dedicated his career to advocating for communities in need, particularly in areas of housing, social, and environmental justice. His legal experience includes work with public interest law firms and state representatives, where he developed a deep understanding of policy and community advocacy.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: The November election results showed that there’s a disconnect between the local and state parties. More folks than ever are looking to get involved but are met with silence or poor communication between club units. I’m running to provide transparency to my local club and to help support initiatives to increase communication and collaboration up and down the chain.
CD11 State Central Committee Candidates (Alternates)
Females
1. Heidi West
Short Bio: Heidi West
Grew up in Detroit and attended Detroit Public Schools
Masters Degree in Bilingual Education
Public school teacher and Union member in Detroit for over twenty years
Community activist focusing on Education and Immigration Justice, Gun Violence Prevention and Anti-Racist work
Democratic Precinct Delegate for eight years
Running to bring more progressive change and equity to the Democratic Party
Campaign Elevator Pitch: Public school teacher and Union member in Detroit for over twenty years
Community activist focusing on Education and Immigration Justice
Democratic Precinct Delegate for eight years
Running to bring more progressive change and equity to the Democratic Party
Detailed Campaign Statement: My name is Heidi West. I am a Public school teacher and Union member in Detroit for over twenty years. I am also a Community activist focusing on Education and Immigration Justice, Gun Violence Prevention and Anti-racism for over ten years. I have also been a Democratic Precinct Delegate for eight years.
I am running as an alternate to bring more progressive change and equity to the Democratic Party. I feel with all of my experience doing grassroots level work that I am qualified to bring the people’s perspective to the party.
2. Rabaab Khattab
Short Bio: I am a Ferndale resident, a proud mom, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy. Currently, I support my children through their virtual schooling at home while also staying engaged in my community. Last year, I worked on Ahmed A.G. Ghanim’s campaign for Congress in Michigan’s 11th District, where I saw firsthand the power of grassroots organizing and the importance of electing leaders who prioritize justice and inclusion.
I’m running for Michigan Democratic Party Central Committee Delegate because I believe the party needs more voices fighting for justice on all levels—whether it’s addressing climate change, eliminating the influence of money in politics, or advocating for justice in our communities. I am committed to using my experience and passion to help build a more just and equitable future for all.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: I’m running for Michigan Democratic Party Delegate because, as a mom and a member of this community, I’m deeply committed to fighting for justice—on climate, money in politics, and for our neighborhoods. Our families deserve a voice that will stand up and make real change happen. It’s time for bold leaders who truly care to step up.
3. Farah Khan
Short Bio: My name is Farah Khan, and I am proud to represent Congressional District 11 (CD-11). For the past 14 years, I have been actively involved in community work at my local mosque, serving on various committees, including as Co-Chair of the Social Committee. I have worked alongside several organizations to rally against war, genocide, and for a Free Palestine. Currently, I serve as a Commissioner on the Farmington Hills Health Commission, the General Secretary of the Pakistan Association of America, and lead event planning for the American Center for Justice, a Yemeni organization advocating for justice in Yemen. I am running for the Michigan Democratic Party State Central Committee to ensure that our party remains committed to justice, equality, and inclusivity—values that should shape both our policies and our actions.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: My name is Farah Khan, I represent CD -11.
I have been deeply involved in pro-peace activism and the fight for human rights and justice. My advocacy has always centered on the belief that freedom, justice, and equality should be fundamental rights for all, not privileges for a few.
If elected, my focus will be on ensuring that these principles are upheld in every aspect of governance. I am committed to making life easier for everyday people by ensuring that resources and support are accessible to everyone – without any division based on color, race, religious beliefs or ethnicity. My goal is to build a system where fairness and justice are not just ideals but lived realities for all.
Let’s work together to create a future where no one is left behind!
4. Josephine (Josie) Graham
Short Bio: Josie is based in Oak Park, and has a multidisciplinary background in nonprofit studies, criminal legal reform and transformation, and education. She has worked with organizations addressing mass incarceration, education equity, gender-based violence, houselessness, and more. Her primary calling is advancing criminal legal reform and transformation. If elected, Josie will help expand the party’s base to include people from diverse identities and regions, support efforts to make the party more accessible to new members, and contribute to advancing a progressive vision that dismantles systems of oppression while building power across issue areas.
5. Angie Smith
Short Bio: Farmington Public school board member, former recording secretary for CD11. Precinct delegate for precinct 4
Campaign Elevator Pitch: I’m running to make things better for the Democratic Party.
Detailed Campaign Statement: Let’s make a difference by helping our party.
6. Dana Smith
Short Bio: My name is Dana Smith. Currently, I am a two term elected precinct delegate from West Bloomfield , Michigan. I was appointed corresponding secretary from the 11th Congressional District under the leadership of Congresswoman Haley Stevens. I was also appointed to the Oakland County Democratic Party executive committee fort terms.
Campaign Elevator Pitch:
I believe in:
Improving our educational system.
Strengthening our economy.
Protecting women’s reproduction rights.
Eliminating healthcare disparities.
Combating climate change.
Gun reform
Criminal and social justice reform.
Preserving our democracy.
Detailed Campaign Statement: Our country is experiencing perilous times. We need to act now to preserve our constitution. Only we the people can protect ur rights and our privileges. I am committed to this cause for the betterment of our country..
7. Tracy Pease
Short Bio: I am the founder and President of Allies Becoming Co-Conspirators for Justice. I’m a Precinct Delegate in Hazel Park. Precinct 3. I have been an organizer and field director with For Our Future, Supermajority, Rising Voices as well as working on the re-election of John Bel Edwards in Louisiana in 19, and the Tom Steyer Campaign in 2020.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: If you want to make a change, it starts from WITHIN the Party. We have to build from the BOTTOM of the ballot..UP!
Detailed Campaign Statement: I can’t be BORROWED, BOUGHT or BULLIED. I will use my voice, and my vote FOR THE PEOPLE!
Males
1. Alex Meyers
Short Bio: Alex Meyers is a versatile attorney and musician with a passion for public service, social justice, and the arts. A graduate of Detroit Mercy Law, Alex has dedicated his career to advocating for communities in need, particularly in areas of housing, social, and environmental justice. His legal experience includes work with public interest law firms and state representatives, where he developed a deep understanding of policy and community advocacy.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: The November election results showed that there’s a disconnect between the local and state parties. More folks than ever are looking to get involved but are met with silence or poor communication between club units. I’m running to provide transparency to my local club and to help support initiatives to increase communication and collaboration up and down the chain.
2. Richard Robbins
Email: Rer.480@gmail.com
Short Bio: UAW member, lifelong Democrat. Former planning commissioner, currently president of Hazel Park District library board of trustees. Former CAP chair UAW local 869.
Campaign Statement: I am standing with all my brother and sister Democrats in opposing the world that Trump and Musk are creating. We need to fight hard for our Democracy!
3. Adam Duberstein
Short Bio: Dr. Adam Duberstein is a clinical psychologist, educator, small business owner, and proud union member (AFT Local #6618) who is honored to run with the Solidarity Coalition. He is a lifelong Democrat and a former elected official, as he was elected to the Hazel Park District Library Board where he served from 2020-2024. Since 1999, Adam has worked on political campaigns for Democratic candidates in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. He is proud to be part of our party and wants to use his background to help our candidates win!
Campaign Elevator Pitch: We have to make sure the party supports our candidates, and I’ll do that by helping candidates to craft winning campaign plans. With 25 years of experience in campaigning and organizing, and with my background in psychology, I have the skills to help Democrats win.
Detailed Campaign Statement: We need state central committee members and Congressional District committee members dedicated to helping our candidates get their messages out using creative strategies. I want Democrats to knock on every door and to engage with every voter. People need to understand how our ideas save them money and time while improving their overall quality of life. As Democrats, we need to engage a variety of voters and show them why our candidates and our ideas are the ones that will keep our communities and our country afloat during these turbulent times.
4. Thomas Russell
Email: thomasSrussell@gmail.com
Short Bio: My awareness and activism on Palestine solidarity began when my church sent me in the in the 1980s to work with the Middle East Council of Churches in Beirut and Jerusalem. Subsequently, I organized and led many educational/solidarity delegations to Palestine in the late 1980s. I am retired and live in Bloomfield Township having worked in the United Methodist Church and the federal judiciary in Washington, D.C. I am a member of the Michigan Democratic Party and the Oakland County Democratic Party.
Campaign Elevator Pitch: I want to work for a Democratic Party that is truly democratic and progressive including Palestine.
5. A. Mike Flores
I’m dedicated to innovation, inclusivity, and progressive change to advance the values ofthe Michigan Democratic Party. – A. “Mike” Flores is a versatile professional with over two decades of experience spanning the automotive, aerospace, nonprofit, and healthcare sectors. A dedicated advocate for community engagement, Mike has been activelyinvolved in local, state, and national campaigns, connecting with constituents at the coffeetable to listen to their priorities and amplify their voices. In the nonprofit sector, he applies his strategic and financial acumen to create meaningful impact, particularly in healthcare and the LGBTQ+ community.
CD11 Committee Candidates
Adam Duberstein
Email: adam.duberstein@gmail.com
Short Bio: Dr. Adam Duberstein is a clinical psychologist, educator, small business owner, and proud union member (AFT Local #6618) who is honored to run with the Solidarity Coalition. He is a lifelong Democrat and a former elected official, as he was elected to the Hazel Park District Library Board where he served from 2020-2024. Since 1999, Adam has worked on political campaigns for Democratic candidates in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. He is proud to be part of our party and wants to use his background to help our candidates win!
Campaign Elevator Pitch: We have to make sure the party supports our candidates, and I’ll do that by helping candidates to craft winning campaign plans. With 25 years of experience in campaigning and organizing, and with my background in psychology, I have the skills to help Democrats win.
Detailed Campaign Statement: We need state central committee members and Congressional District committee members dedicated to helping our candidates get their messages out using creative strategies. I want Democrats to knock on every door and to engage with every voter. People need to understand how our ideas save them money and time while improving their overall quality of life. As Democrats, we need to engage a variety of voters and show them why our candidates and our ideas are the ones that will keep our communities and our country afloat during these turbulent times.
Karen Amato
Congressional District 11 will elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary, as well as at least 15 District Committee members at the February 22nd, 2025 State Convention.
CD11 will also elect 19 Delegates and 19 Alternates to the MDP State Central Committee. These will be divided as evenly as possible between male and female candidates. Non-binary candidates are counted first and their numbers subtracted from the 19, then the remainder will be divided as evenly as possible between male and female to approximate gender balance. The non-binary people The candidates will be divided into four (4) slates. One slate called the “male” Delegate Slate will consist of the male candidates for Delegate plus the non-binary candidates who choose to run on the “male” slate. Similarly for the “male” Alternate Slate, and “female” Delegate and Alternate Slates.