Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeremy Rodriguez
Hi Jeremy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Jeremy Armando Rodriguez (they/them) is a trailblazing non-binary Mexican-American Campaign Manager, Congressional Finance Director whose life story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the transformative power of Discipline, education, hard work, strength, community and lover for humanity. Born and raised in Pine Hills, Florida, Jeremy emerged from the challenges of poverty and systemic inequality with an unshakable belief in the power of collective action to create a brighter, more equitable future. As a first-generation student who grew up without the presence of their parents, Jeremy found solace and strength in education, seeing it as a beacon of light to break the cycle of poverty and uplift others facing similar struggles.
Jeremy’s academic journey took them across borders, studying Health Science and U.S. Government in both the United States and Brazil. This global perspective deepened their understanding of systemic inequities and fueled their passion for advocacy. In 2020, Jeremy stepped into the forefront of the Black Lives Matter movement in Orlando, where they became a powerful voice for justice and equality. It was during this time that they met fellow organizer Maxwell Frost, and their shared commitment to peaceful community organizing forged a bond that would shape the future of their work.
When Maxwell Frost decided to run for Congress, Jeremy joined the campaign with unwavering dedication, driven by the belief that Frost represented the transformative change needed for young people across the nation. Jeremy’s leadership and strategic expertise played a pivotal role in electing Maxwell Frost as the first Gen-Z member of Congressal historic milestone that redefined representation in American politics.
Jeremy’s career is a tapestry of groundbreaking achievements. In 2022, they were a key architect of Congressman Frost’s historic campaign, helping to usher in a new era of youth leadership in Congress. This year, Jeremy brought their unparalleled strategic vision as a Campaign Manager/Finance Director some of Florida’s most competitive races, including:
Congressman Darren Soto’s Re-election Campaign, where Jeremy helped secure a decisive blowout victory in one of the most competitive Congressional races in the nation.
Nate Douglas’ State House Campaign, where Jeremy’s guidance propelled a Gen-Z candidate to victory in one of Florida’s toughest State legislative contests.
Anne Douglas’ School Board Campaign, resulting in a resounding 19-point victory in Orange County’s most competitive school board race.
Beyond the campaign trail, Jeremy’s impact resonates deeply in their community. As a board member of the Contigo Fund, one of Central Florida’s largest funders for LGBTQIA+ organizations, Jeremy has helped award over $4.5 million in grants to initiatives that advance equality, justice, and empowerment for LGBTQIA+ communities.
But Jeremy’s work doesn’t stop there. Driven by a profound commitment to equity, Jeremy spearheaded the creation of the Central Florida Trans Care Fund, a groundbreaking initiative that has secured $100,000 to advance transgender health care. This fund is more than a financial resource—it is a lifeline, a symbol of hope, and a bold step toward ensuring that every individual has access to the care they need and deserve.
Jeremy Armando Rodriguez is more than a leader; they are a force for change, a champion of the marginalized, and a living example of how one person’s vision and determination can transform lives. Their story is a call to action, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and progress are possible. Jeremy’s work is not just about winning campaigns or securing funding—it’s about building a world where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, can thrive.
With Jeremy’s leadership, the Nation—and the world—can believe in a future defined by justice, equality, and boundless possibility. Jeremy Armando Rodriguez is proof that together, we can create a better tomorrow.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Has it been a smooth road? Absolutely not. The journey has been anything but easy marked by challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But it is precisely these struggles that have shaped me, fueled my determination, and taught me the true meaning of resilience.
Growing up in poverty, without the presence of my parents, I learned early on that life doesn’t hand you opportunities, you have to fight for them. Education became my lifeline, my way out of a cycle that felt inescapable. But even that path was riddled with obstacles. As a first generation student, I often felt out of place, unsure if I belonged in spaces that weren’t designed for someone like me. There were times when the weight of systemic inequality felt crushing, when the odds seemed insurmountable. But I refused to let those challenges define me.
When I stepped into organizing during the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, I faced resistance, skepticism, and even hostility but we always push on Fighting for justice in a world that often seems indifferent to the suffering of marginalized communities.
Joining Maxwell Frost’s campaign was another leap into the unknown. Running a historic campaign to elect the nation’s first Gen-Z Congressman was a monumental task, and the pressure was immense. There were sleepless nights, tough decisions, and moments when the goal felt out of reach. But we persevered, fueled by the hope that we were paving the way for a new generation of leaders.
Leading as Congressman Darren Soto’s Finance Director in the most competitive Congressional Race in FL and one of the most toughest races in the Nation brought the weight of World upon me. We have the most powerful Government in history, what we do and who we elect has some of the biggest impacts in the World. My love for humanity reminds me this and kept me pushing through the all the sleepless nights and pain but in the end, I raised the most ever in Congressman Soto’s whole political career and we won overwhelmingly.
Even in my work with the Contigo Fund and the creation of the Central Florida Trans Care Fund, I’ve faced resistance. Advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and transgender health care in a political climate that often seeks to erase these communities is an uphill battle. But I’ve seen the power of collective action, the strength of a community that refuses to be silenced, and the impact of hope in the face of adversity.
The road has been rocky, but every struggle has been a lesson. Every setback has been a reminder of why I fight. Every moment of doubt has been overshadowed by the knowledge that my work is not just about me, it’s about creating a better future for generations who come after me.
I’ve learned that strength isn’t about never falling, it’s about getting back up every time you do. Power isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about having the courage to ask the right questions. Dedication isn’t about never feeling tired, it’s about finding the energy to keep going, even when you’re exhausted. And heart? Heart is what keeps you grounded, what reminds you why you started in the first place.
The road hasn’t been smooth, but it has been worth it. Because every challenge I’ve faced has brought me closer to my purpose: to make the impossible possible, not just for myself, but for everyone who believes in a better world. And as long as there’s work to be done, I’ll keep fighting, with strength, power, dedication, and heart.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I serve as a Campaign Manager and Congressional Finance Director, leading the most Competitive campaign races at both the local and Federal levels. My work includes recruiting and empowering new leaders, such as Gen-Z candidate Nate Douglas and 25-year educator and newly elected OCPS School Board Member Anne Douglas, to bring fresh perspectives and bold leadership to our communities. I also work to retain the best Congressional members who put the people 1st like Congressman Darren Soto.
I also constantly make U.S. History with getting our First Gen-Z Congressman elected, Maxwell Frost and getting OCPS School Board member elected Anne Douglas where OCPS for the 1st time in all the schools history for over 100 years, we now have 2 black school board members serving simultaneously
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Managing Senate Campaigns and eventually Managing the next President of the United States of America
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremy_rodriguez_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeremy.rodriguez.9440
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-rodriguez-6aaa16240/
- Twitter: https://x.com/jeremy_rodrigue
