Meet Tim Kelly

Tim Kelly is a bold new leader running for California Congressional District 1. A Sonoma County native, a Constitutional Attorney, 2nd Amendment defender, Educator, and Housing Rights Lawyer. He is a self-made family man, climber, teacher, and unbought, unbossed people's candidate, dedicated to serving the community with courage, integrity, energy, and a deep understanding of the law.

BIOGRAPHY

I grew up in a rural community in beautiful Northern California. Like many rural communities, people’s character and hard work mattered more than their partisan affiliation. Hippies and rednecks coexisted peacefully, and the community worked together with a shared reverence for the land and an appreciation for one another despite profound political differences.

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My parents were artists and small business owners—low-income, but self-educated and brave. They chose to value connection to the land and time with their family over chasing money. Through their courage and hard work, they raised three children without government

assistance or family help. I learned firsthand the importance of self-sufficiency as well as connection to community. In difficult times, it was our neighbors and friends who supported us. These are the values I will bring to my representation of the district.

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As an adolescent, I earned a scholarship to college through academic excellence. As a young professional, I sought to pay that forward, spending years teaching in some of the most high-need, challenging school districts in California. I’ve taught in East Oakland and Hunters Point in San Francisco, as well as in the jungles of Peru and the rural regions of Nicaragua. I know that a robust public education system is the backbone of democracy.

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Over the last 10 years, I’ve worked as a tenant rights advocate, helping people stand up to predatory corporate landlords who ignore the law for financial gain. I’m highly effective at getting things done and determined to help District One unite and flourish.