Skip to main content

MEDIA CONTACT

The path to progress for the entire country runs through small towns and rural communities

The Rural Democracy Initiative network includes more than 160 groups in 24 states transforming the lives of people in rural communities, towns, and small cities. We can connect press and content creators with subject matter experts, community leaders, engaging storytellers, and people with newsworthy experiences. 

CONTACT US

media@rural-democracy.org

RDI Executive Director Sarah Jaynes

Sarah grew up in a small town on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state and began her career organizing on climate issues in rural communities.

She’s been a pioneer in the progressive movement. Sarah led the development of one of the first state progressive donor networks—Washington’s Progress Alliance—and has coached emerging donor alliances from Alaska to New Hampshire to Alabama.

Sarah’s an innovator, obsessed with winning, and may be the nicest person in politics. She’s dedicated 25 years working for shared prosperity, democracy, and a healthy environment. When she’s not working, Sarah is raising four kids and enjoying the spectacular Washington mountains.

KEY FACTS ABOUT RURAL AMERICA

RURAL AMERICA IS SWINGY

FROM 2016–2018

25-pt swing for rural 18- to 29-year-olds

18-pt swing for rural 30- to 44-year-olds

 

RURAL AMERICA IS DIVERSE

IN 2020

1/3 of rural counties are at least 25% non-white

1/10 of rural counties are majority non-white

2/3 of rural counties are at least 10% non-white

 

RURAL AMERICA SUPPORTS PROGRESSIVE POLICIES

64% of rural Americans agreed: “To support rural America, we need to expand Medicare to cover all Americans.”

 

 

ABOUT RURAL