FFRF Action Fund proudly announces that all of its endorsed candidates secured victories in the April 1 elections, marking a significant advancement for secular governance and inclusive education.
The victorious candidates are:
- Judge Susan Crawford, who was elected to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, ensuring continued judicial independence and the protection of the separation between state and church, as well as safeguarding abortion access and LGBTQ-plus equality.
- Dr. Jill Underly, who was re-elected as Wisconsin’s state superintendent, reaffirming public education’s foundation in evidence-based policy and freedom from religious interference. Her opponent was a strong supporter of voucher expansion.
- Carl Bryan, who identifies as an atheist, won a seat on the Kenosha Unified School Board in Wisconsin. His victory strengthens local support for secular public education.
- Alena Hansen, who secured a position on the Crystal Lake District 47 School Board in Illinois, contributing to the advancement of secular and evidence-based educational policies.
- Elana Jacobs, who won a seat on the Skokie School District 73.5 Board of Education in Illinois. Jacobs, who currently serves on the Niles Township High School Board of Education, brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to inclusive educational practices.
Grassroots partnerships and strategic action fueled the wins
These victories were powered by strategic grassroots mobilization and key partnerships. FFRF Action Fund collaborated with Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin to engage secular and pro-reproductive rights voters, resulting in over 60,000 phone calls made by FFRF Action Fund advocates leading up to the election. Additionally, Michelle Velasquez, chief strategy officer of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin, appeared on FFRF Action Fund’s “The Secular Advocate” to emphasize the critical stakes of the Wisconsin Supreme Court race.
“These victories are a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the growing influence of secular voters,” said Annie Laurie Gaylor, president of the FFRF Action Fund. “When we mobilize and stand firm on our principles, we can effect meaningful change that upholds the separation between state and church.”
Express endorsements elevated local leaders
Three of the winning candidates — Hansen, Bryan, and Jacobs — received endorsements through the FFRF Action Fund’s Express Endorsement Program, designed to support candidates in local races who align with the organization’s mission. All three were also endorsed by the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, highlighting the intersectional importance of secular, inclusive leadership in education and governance.
Looking ahead to future challenges
Building on this momentum, the FFRF Action Fund is preparing to engage in upcoming judicial races in Pennsylvania, in school board races, and gearing up for the 2026 election cycle. The nonprofit advocacy group remains dedicated to supporting candidates who champion the separation between state and church and advocate for policies that reflect secular principles.
FFRF Action Fund is a 501(c)(4) organization that develops and advocates for legislation, regulations and government programs to preserve the constitutional principle of separation between state and church. It also advocates for the rights and views of nonbelievers, endorses candidates for political office, and publicizes the views of elected officials concerning religious liberty issues.
Photo credit