Lauren Groh-Wargo is a highly acclaimed political strategist, executive, and devoted advocate for economic justice, whose influential efforts have significantly contributed to the evolution of the Democratic wave in the Southern United States.
Notably, her most recent professional endeavor was serving as the campaign manager for Stacey Abrams' gubernatorial campaign, which achieved remarkable milestones by shattering state records for fundraising and voter turnout. This historic campaign also made significant strides by placing the first African American woman on the ballot for governor from a major political party in the United States.
Lauren's remarkable odyssey commenced in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York, where she devoted herself to combating the scourge of slumlords, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors in the labor movement and campaign work. Throughout her illustrious 16-year career, Lauren has had the distinction of leading or advising a plethora of high-profile campaigns, progressive organizations, and influential leaders across eight states, including the Empire State of New York, the Buckeye State of Ohio, the Constitution State of Connecticut, the Pelican State of Louisiana, the Volunteer State of Tennessee, the Sunshine State of Florida, the Grand Canyon State of Arizona, the Old Dominion State of Virginia, and the Peach State of Georgia.
With a grassroots approach that has proven to be highly effective, Lauren has mastered the art of raising funds through door-to-door canvassing and advising high-net-worth donors, recognizing the crucial importance of investing in local communities and building the infrastructure necessary to advance progressive values.
Lauren's impressive array of accomplishments boasts a notable track record of facilitating the successful passage of ballot initiatives aimed at increasing the minimum wage, thereby contributing to a more equitable socio-economic landscape.
In addition, she has been instrumental in providing crucial support to emerging political leaders across the Southern and national stages, helping them establish and strengthen their respective organizations and leadership capacities.
In 2010, Lauren played a pivotal role in spearheading a groundbreaking $15 million campaign effort in the state of Ohio, a testament to her exceptional organizational and strategic abilities.
Furthermore, in 2014, she founded the New Georgia Project, serving as its inaugural executive director and guiding the organization's mission and vision.
Lauren's humble beginnings can be traced back to her birthplace near Cleveland, Ohio, where she later went on to earn a degree in Economics from American University.
