Candidate name: Jahana Hayes State: Connecticut Bio: Like many of the women who decided to run for office this year, Jahana Hayes never thought she would get into politics. An educator by trade, President Barack Obama honored Hayes as Connecticut’s Teacher of the Year in 2016. After 15 years in the classroom, Hayes, who grew up in public housing, now helps train the next generation of Connecticut’s teachers, but she wants to do even more. Hayes is hoping to become the first Black American elected Congress from her state and be a voice for those who often find themselves silenced. “I know that the people of the 5th District want someone in Washington who will fight hard for them. I want them to know that I will do everything I can to serve them and the state I love to the best of my ability, because our journey is not determined by where we begin but rather where we are going. I know the future of my city and my state and our country is bright, because I see the possibilities every day in every person I encounter,” she said. For more information: Website Twitter Instagram Facebook