Overview

Democracy for America (DFA) is a progressive political organization and political action committee founded in 2004 by former DNC chair Howard Dean. Headquartered in South Burlington, Vermont, it grew out of the grassroots energy generated during Dean's 2004 presidential campaign and has since combined voter outreach, candidate support, and public-issue advocacy. DFA describes itself as a membership-driven group that works at local, state, and national levels and reports a large online and offline membership.

Activities and structure

DFA operates as a fundraising and endorsement body while also offering training and organizing resources for activists. Its principal activities include recruiting and endorsing progressive candidates, providing campaign contributions and microgrants, coordinating volunteer efforts, and running public-awareness campaigns on policy topics. The organization has been an early adopter of online organizing tools and email-based mobilization.

Typical programs

  • Candidate endorsements and targeted fundraising to support campaigns
  • Volunteer training, canvassing and field-organizing workshops
  • Issue advocacy on topics such as healthcare, climate, voting rights, and equality
  • Coalition building with other progressive groups and local grassroots networks

History and development

DFA was created after Howard Dean's presidential bid as a way to preserve and expand the network of volunteers and donors that had emerged during the campaign. Over time it evolved into a model for progressive grassroots political organizing, helping to professionalize training for small-donor fundraising and volunteer mobilization. Its use of digital communications and early internet fundraising methods influenced a range of later progressive activist efforts and organizations.

Impact and distinctions

Democracy for America is distinct from formal party structures such as the Democratic National Committee: it operates independently, often endorsing primary challengers and promising aggressive support for candidates aligned with progressive policy goals. DFA emphasizes local races as well as national contests, arguing that long-term political change often begins at the state and municipal level. Observers note its role in building progressive networks and in experimenting with small-dollar donor models.

Further information

For organizational materials, training schedules, endorsement criteria and other resources, see the group's pages: About Democracy for America, PAC filings and disclosures, membership and volunteer sign-up, training programs, and press and news.