From Social Worker to Running for Congress (CA-23): Tessa Lynn Hodge

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Tessa Lynn Hodge discusses her transition from licensed clinical social worker to Democratic congressional candidate in California’s 23rd District. Tessa shares insights into what it takes to run for Congress in one of the largest and most geographically diverse districts in the state, including the logistical challenges of campaigning and the importance of deeply understanding the communities you aim to represent.Throughout the conversation, Tessa emphasizes the urgent need for effective political representation and outlines her policy priorities, including healthcare accessibility, food insecurity, and addressing systemic inequities impacting working families. She also reflects on how her professional background in social work and her personal experiences have shaped her approach to leadership and public service. Listeners will gain a behind-the-scenes look at grassroots campaigning, team building, and the motivations driving a new generation of candidates to seek meaningful change in American politics.What We're Talking About...Tessa Lynn Hodge’s background as a licensed clinical social worker directly shapes her approach to public service and congressional campaigning.Understanding district geography is essential when running for Congress, especially in California’s large and diverse 23rd District.Healthcare accessibility remains a critical issue in rural and underserved communities across the district.Building a strong, values-driven campaign team is key to running an effective grassroots campaign.Personal and professional experiences motivate Tessa’s commitment to systemic change and political reform.Food insecurity continues to impact working families and rural populations within the district.Community engagement and listening to constituents are vital for meaningful political representation.Tessa’s family background informs her understanding of local economic and social challenges.Proposition 50 plays a significant role in shaping campaign strategy and voter education efforts.Campaign funding remains one of the biggest challenges for first-time and grassroots congressional candidates.Chapters00:00 Tessa Lynn Hodge's Introduction and Background02:41 Transition from Social Work to Politics05:20 Campaigning in a Large District08:08 Building a Supportive Team11:03 Impact of Prop 50 on Campaign Strategy13:35 Connecting with Rural Communities16:17 Personal Background and Motivation18:59 Healthcare Accessibility Issues21:49 Addressing Food Insecurity24:39 Support from Family and Community27:10 Campaign Needs and Closing RemarksLinks MentionedTessa Lynn Hodge's campaign website: http://tessaforca.com