Submitted
Sara Draper, an immigrant from the United Kingdom and 10-year U.S. citizen, has been on the campaign trail for three and a half months. She’s doing all she can after the FEC filing deadline to remind voters of just how possible it is for Democrats to win in Carmel come November.
“In our society, it’s no surprise that funds raised are one of the more tangible metrics campaigns can use to gauge success, but it’s important to remember, especially, when we’re up against massive war chests, that it’s not the only one,” Draper said.
So far, Draper has knocked on over 1,000 doors with her growing army of more than 45 active volunteers who refer to themselves as #DraperDieHards. She’s met with nearly 100 stakeholders, community leaders and citizen organizations, so far, on her “Listen, Learn, Lead” tour. She’s attending campaign-related activities daily with concerned citizens, many of whom have been excited to learn that a Democrat is on the ballot.
Draper has received donations from over 100 individual donors, cash, and in-kind contributions totaling nearly $20,000, including three political action committees.
“We’re just getting started,” Draper said, who is unable to rely on donations from family or lifelong friends, as they live in the U.K. Donations from them would violate campaign finance laws.
“I recognized I had a hill to climb in regards to fundraising,” Draper said. “However, seeing that my campaign contributors, thus far, represent a myriad of ethnic backgrounds, religions and most importantly, three political parties, I’m reminded that my campaign tagline, ‘For ALL Carmel’ truly has the legs we felt it would. I may be outraised, but I will not be outworked. That you can be sure of.”
Draper is an Oxford University graduate, speaking five languages with professional expertise in finance and market research and spent time on the board of the Village of West Clay. She’s an adoptive “Mum” and former foster parent. She is now a Guardian ad Litem, advocating for children of abuse/neglect cases in the court system in Hamilton County.