We’re continuing to introduce the newest members of the VAJD Executive Board to our members and the wider progressive community. The Executive Board has spent the first half of 2023 actively recruiting and interviewing candidates to joining the executive board with the hopes of expanding our reach across Virginia.
This month, we’re pleased to introduce you to our new Political Director, Ryan Suto, who will work to maintain good relationships with progressive candidates and electeds across Virginia.
We sat down with Ryan to get a better understanding of his background and what brought him to Virginia Justice Dems.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m a first-generation college goer from a working-class family, raised in the small town of Rosendale, NY. I’ve been in the DC-area since 2013, and have been sticking my nose into Fairfax County politics since 2020.
Why did you decide to join VAJD?
My day job is focusing on federal policy, mostly voting rights, so I wanted to help contribute to my local community, as well. State laws have more direct impact on the quality of life for our families, our schools, and our future.
What is the most important progressive issue to you?
This is hard to say! But if it counts as one issue, I would say working toward building a multiracial democracy. After Trump and COVID, we can’t look back to a “return to normal” that many say because we have never experienced what we are trying to build. To get there, we have to understand how working class people, poor people, and communities of color are systemically excluded from and ignored by the institutions of power.
Outside of politics, what are your favorite activities?
I enjoy watching D.C. United, cooking, and spending time with my wife and children.
We’re so excited to have Ryan on the Executive Board and look forward to using his knowledge and insight to help progressives win in Virginia!