Ally Dalsimer

Ally Dalsimer received an undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond in 1986 and a graduate degree from Georgetown University in 2000. Her career experience includes working as Program Manager at the Department of Defense's Natural Resources Program. Dalsimer has been associated with the following organizations:

The Wildlife Society

National Organization for Women

Capital Area Foodbank

American Association of University Women[1][2]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm a single mom who was raised by a single mom. In 2019, my job as the Natural Resources Program Manager at DoD was eliminated by the Trump administration after I refused to comply with their anti-environmental agenda. Now I'm running for Congress to continue my life's work of fighting for a better planet and better lives for all its inhabitants.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Everyone should have healthcare, not just 'access' to it.We need to set our children up for success by guaranteeing high quality early learning.Climate change is ravaging our nation. We need an environmental professional in Congress to lead the fight in stopping it.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Healthcare, Early Education, Climate Action, Workers Rights, Women's Rights, Pro-People Economics, Justice Reform.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to Shirley Chisholm, Gloria Steinem, and Dolly Parton. Gloria Steinem for advancing Women's rights and pushing the conversation forward for all, Shirley Chisholm for successfully facing adversity and overcoming tremendous challenges, and Dolly Parton for being a genuinely kind person and using her talents to selflessly help others.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, empathy, and follow-through. Without these three principles, you are not a public servant, but a self-servant.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am a certified, trained facilitator with experience working among diverse entities in difficult circumstances. I have tenacity, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness among people and policy. I'm also a lifelong learner, and willing to listen to all sides, but make decisions based in fact. Bottom line: I have integrity, and will stand by my principles.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To listen to their constituents and work with others to implement policies that address the people's needs.

What legacy would you like to leave?

After my time in office, I would like to see publicly financed campaigns, an end to corporate political contributions, universal healthcare coverage, and a true living wage based on a forward thinking, green economy. I also want to steward in the next generation of bold, progressive leadership in my district, both at the Congressional level and in local and statewide office.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The Watergate Break-in. I was 7 when it happened and I saw the news reports and subsequent updates every night on the news.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I was a cashier at the American Club in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republican of the Congo) in Africa. I was twelve years old and worked for the summer while my father was stationed there.

What is your favorite book? Why?

A People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn. It's the spark that ignited this campaign.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Mrs. Smith (Mr. and Mrs. Smith). I'd still be a suburban mom but also a kickass super spy!

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

"Here Comes the Sun" by George Harrison, The Beatles

If you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

I think my biggest draw would be to serve on the Natural Resources committee, as I've been a professional in that field for 30 years, but I feel qualified to to serve in Education, Energy, and Oversight as well.

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