Why We're Here
The two-party system is failing us.
It's a system that distracts and pits regular people against each other, while bowing to the wealthy and powerful. Meanwhile, everyday Californians continue to get squeezed and left behind, despite our state being the world's fourth largest economy.
We deserve better.
Forwardists aren't interested in endless finger-pointing — we stay focused on root problems and solutions. The core problem is that our government no longer represents the people, because:
- One to two thirds of local and state elections in California go completely uncontested
- Campaigns in California are overwhelmingly funded by special interests
- Our electoral systems are out-of-date and shut out independent challengers
To fix these root problems, we need a new kind of party—one focused on building a responsive, dynamic, and truly competitive multiparty democracy.
Mission Statement
Vision Statement
Core Values
Our Team
The California Forwardist Ethos
Mission Statement
Our mission is to blaze the trail for a competitive multi-party democracy in California by electing honest, accountable leaders and by advancing data-driven, pragmatic solutions that improve everyday life in our communities.
Vision Statement
We envision the Golden State at its greatest:
A vibrant and harmonious community of integrity, justice, and opportunity - where the well-being of all people comes first, society is advanced by unlocking people’s creative potential, Californians have the security and means to pursue their dreams, and citizens have a restored belief in their power to make a difference.
Core Values
FIX THE SYSTEM
We tackle root causes and fight for better governance and a truly representative democracy.
SERVE THE PEOPLE
We lead with respect and compassion, focusing on real solutions that improve daily life.
BUILD THE FUTURE
We embrace innovation and collaboration to create a data-driven, sustainable future for all.
Our Team
Rick Chen
Co-chair
"I'm fighting for a future that embraces our shared humanity and empowers all people to thrive, not just survive. Why settle for less?" Read Full Bio »
Cynthia Tai
Secretary
"I envision a society of abundance for our families, friends, and neighbors. Let's make it a reality." Read Full Bio »
David Hess
Treasurer
Sarah Czech
Policy Coordinator
"I see the Forward Party exemplifying the greatest American quality in disrupting the status quo. It is time to release what no longer serves us: the two-party system. It’s time to move Forward!" Read Full Bio »
Jennifer Cheung
Field Organizing Coordinator
Jennifer supports the Forward Party as a means to modernize American politics with cross-partisanship, a bottom-up approach, and ensure a more inclusive and forward-thinking future for all. Read Full Bio »
Dan Leavitt
Onboarding and Training Coordinator
"I'm passionate about finding real solutions over party lines, and believe in bringing people together around what works." Read Full Bio »
Johannes Plambeck
Operations Coordinator
"My vision is a multiparty political system where everyone’s voice is heard, diverse views are represented, and policy adapts intelligently to people’s needs.” Read Full Bio »
The California Forwardist Ethos
We strive to:
Give back to our neighborhoods and communities.
Participate in our local politics.
Practice empathy, grace, and kindness everyday.
Work to identify and tackle the root causes of issues.
Pursue truth and practice discernment.
Educate ourselves before educating others.
Work to adapt, innovate, and future-proof.
Reach consensus through data and collaboration.
Celebrate our differences and evolve through them.
Register as a Forwardist
Ready to challenge the status quo with us? Register as a Forwardist to make us California's first new party since 1992. Learn more below.