<p>Part of Joan's Town Talks Live workshop series, Policy Matters gathered 50 people from across District 2 and who engaged in meaningful and civil conversation about the policies that affect their community. Together, attendees came to a consensus on what matters to them and which issues are a priority to address! These Policy Matters workshops are taking place across the District.</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-headline-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-headline-secondary);">Town Talks Live! Presents: Policy Matters!</span></h2>

Gallery

<p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">As a woman, I have been inspired throughout my life, be it as a career educator or as a woman and a mother by women - those who have taken the biggest fire of misogyny, hate and coordinated attacks on their ideas, character and contributions. Their stories, willingness to stand in the arena, speeches, books and action inspire me as I face similar challenges, as I run for Congress.</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">In my career, I always found a way to teach about women's rights and the movement. I wanted young women to remember from where they have come and upon whose shoulders they stand. I also wanted young men to have an understanding of what it has taken for equal rights under the law. The ERA is still not codified. Let's get this done.</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Help get me to DC so I can continue the fight!</strong></span></p>

Photo collage of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Hillary Clinton, Kamala Harris and Michelle Obama

Page Intro

Photo of Joan VonDras, microphone in had, addressing a group of people

<small><p></p></small><small><h2><a href="/34577634-3150-406c-bebc-de665402d0cb">Events &amp; Opportunities to Meet with Joan</a></h2></small>

Events

<h1>Issues</h1>

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<h2>In the News</h2>

News

<p>Democratic Club Presentations</p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);"><strong>Chesterfield Township Democrats</strong></span><br>February 25th, 7 PM. Manchester Municipal Court (by Costco)</p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);"><strong>Hannibal DEMO Days</strong></span><br><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">March 21st, 3 PM</span></p><p></p><p></p>

<h2>Public Presentations </h2>

<h5>Host a small group of friends and family in your home!<br></h5>

<h5>Join me at these community events!</h5>

<h5>Town Talks Live!</h5>

Lists

<p>Sign up below for campaign updates!</p>

<h1>Newsletter Sign-up</h1>

<h1>Events</h1>

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<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-headline-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-headline-secondary);">Awards &amp; Accomplishments</span><br></h1><p style="text-align: center;"></p>

Awards & Accomplishments

Your contributions help us reach more voters.

<h2>We're grateful for your donation!  Thank you!</h2>

Donate

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<h2>Campaign Videos</h2>

Video thumbnail image of Joan smiling next to Policy Matters! text

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Policy Matters! A Community Conversation</span></h4><p>An opportunity to redefine what a town hall looks and sounds like, and come to know what it is to have a representative who will listen to and represent you.</p>

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<h2>1. Introduction</h2><p>Welcome to the website of the campaign of <strong>Joan VonDras</strong>, candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, Missouri’s 2nd District (the “Campaign”, “we”, “us”, or “our”).</p><p>We value the trust you place in us when you visit our website or provide us your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your information when you access our website <a href="https://vondrasforcongress.us"><strong>https://vondrasforcongress.us</strong></a> (the “Website”) or otherwise engage with us (e.g., through our events, communications, volunteer or donation forms).</p><p>By visiting the Website, interacting with us, or providing your personal information, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Privacy Policy and consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your information as described herein.</p><h2>2. Information We Collect</h2><h4>2.1 Information You Voluntarily Provide</h4><p>When you engage with us, you may provide certain personal information, including but not limited to:</p><ul><li><p>Name, address, email address, telephone number</p></li><li><p>Employer and occupation (when required for campaign-finance compliance)</p></li><li><p>Donation information (e.g., contribution amount, payment information processed by a third-party processor)</p></li><li><p>Volunteer information (e.g., interests, availability, background information)</p></li><li><p>Responses to surveys, event registrations, contact-us forms, or other interactions</p></li><li><p>Social media handles or profile information if you choose to interact with us through those platforms</p></li></ul><h4>2.2 Information Collected Automatically</h4><p>When you visit our Website, we may automatically collect certain technical and usage information, including:</p><ul><li><p>IP address, browser type and version, operating system, device identifiers</p></li><li><p>Date and time of access, pages visited, time spent, links clicked, referring URL</p></li><li><p>Cookies and similar tracking technologies (used to remember your preferences, enable analytics, and measure site traffic)</p></li></ul><p>We use these data primarily for internal analytics, site-improvement purposes, and to enhance your online experience.</p><h2>3. Use of Your Information</h2><p>We may use the information we collect for the following purposes:</p><ul><li><p>To respond to your requests or inquiries</p></li><li><p>To send you newsletters, campaign updates, event invitations, volunteer opportunities, and similar communications</p></li><li><p>To manage campaign operations, including organizing volunteers, processing donations, and complying with campaign-finance laws</p></li><li><p>To analyze site usage and improve our outreach efforts</p></li><li><p>To target campaign communications, including digital advertising (consistent with applicable law)</p></li><li><p>To maintain internal records and comply with legal obligations</p></li></ul><h2>4. Disclosure of Your Information</h2><p>We will <strong>not sell</strong> your personal information. However, we may disclose it under certain circumstances:</p><ul><li><p>To third-party service providers (e.g., web hosting, payment processing, email delivery, analytics) who are bound by confidentiality obligations</p></li><li><p>To comply with legal obligations or lawful requests by authorities</p></li><li><p>To disclose donor information (name, address, employer, occupation, donation amount) as required under <strong>Federal Election Commission (FEC)</strong> laws</p></li><li><p>In aggregate or de-identified form (for example, summary statistics that don’t identify individuals)</p></li><li><p>In the event of a campaign reorganization or asset transfer, where your information may be part of that transfer</p></li></ul><h2>5. Cookies and Tracking Technologies</h2><p>Our Website uses cookies and similar technologies (e.g., web beacons, pixels, local storage) to:</p><ul><li><p>Recognize you when you return</p></li><li><p>Remember your preferences</p></li><li><p>Analyze site traffic</p></li><li><p>Serve campaign-related advertising</p></li></ul><p>You may disable or block cookies through your browser settings, though this may limit your use of certain site features.</p><h2>6. Your Choices and Rights</h2><p>You have choices regarding how we communicate with you and how we use your data:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Opt-out:</strong> You may unsubscribe from campaign emails at any time by clicking the “unsubscribe” link or through one of the <a href="/4d2a0a15-aa27-44c2-adbd-0c168df71da1#block-e1db0b9e-564b-4ec1-86c0-3e1aa3fe0d1c"><strong>contact methods</strong></a> listed below.</p></li><li><p><strong>Data access or correction:</strong> You may contact us to review, correct, or delete your personal information. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe, subject to applicable campaign-finance recordkeeping requirements.</p></li><li><p>Please note: Donor information may be <strong>publicly disclosed</strong> under federal law and must be retained per FEC regulations.</p></li></ul><h2>7. Data Security</h2><p>We take reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.<br>However, no security system is perfect, and we cannot guarantee absolute security. If you believe your information has been compromised, please contact us at <a href="mailto:privacy@vondrasforcongress.us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>privacy@vondrasforcongress.us</strong></a>.</p><h2>8. Children’s Privacy</h2><p>Our Website and services are not directed toward children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from them.<br>If we become aware that we have collected such information, we will delete it as required by law.</p><h2>9. Third-Party Links and Platforms</h2><p>Our Website may contain links to external websites or third-party platforms (e.g., social media sites).<br>This Privacy Policy does <strong>not</strong> apply to those sites; please review their privacy policies. We are not responsible for their practices.</p><h2>10. International Data Transfers</h2><p>If applicable, your information may be transferred to, stored, and processed in the <strong>United States</strong> or other countries where our service providers operate.<br>By using our Website, you agree to such transfers.</p><h2>11. Retention of Your Information</h2><p>We retain personal information as long as necessary to:</p><ul><li><p>Fulfill the purposes for which it was collected</p></li><li><p>Comply with legal obligations (including campaign-finance laws)</p></li><li><p>Resolve disputes and enforce agreements</p></li></ul><h2>12. Changes to This Privacy Policy</h2><p>We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time.<br>When we do, we will post the updated version on this page and revise the “Effective Date” above.<br>Your continued use of the Website following any updates constitutes your acceptance of the changes.</p><h2>13. Contact Us</h2><p>If you have questions, comments, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or your personal information, please submit the form below or contact us at:</p>

Policy

<p>I will hold regular town halls and keep open lines of communication because your stories and the needs of our District will underpin decisions in Washington. I will work for you, not for special interests.</p>

<h2>Be Accessible as Your Representative</h2>

Be Accessible as Your Represen

My Story

<h1>Safe & fair food supply for everyone</h1>

<p>I will vote to restore healthcare subsidies until a comprehensive bipartisan plan is in place. I will advocate for policies to expand access to quality healthcare, particularly by lowering costs, and address staff shortages through hiring incentives to restore safe patient-staff ratios. I will vote to ensure all communities have equal access to quality healthcare services, including mental healthcare, and to protect the wellness of women and families.</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Increase Access to Affordable, </span><br><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Quality Healthcare</span></h2>

Access to Affordable Quality H

People Not Politicians at the State Capitol

<h2>Democracy is not a spectator sport.<br><br>Get off the sidelines and join us!</h2>

Volunteer

<p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">“Today we are faced with the preeminent fact that if civilization is to survive we must cultivate the science of human relationships- the ability of all peoples of all kinds to live together and work together in the same world at peace.”</span></p><p><strong>FDR (unannounced) 1945</strong></p>

<h2>Current Affairs</h2>

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<p>Peace and Security for Israel and Palestine</p>

<p>A Strong America Needs a Clear Strategy in Iran</p>

Current Affairs

Issues Post

<h1>Media</h1>

<p><strong>If I have learned one thing in my years of public school teaching and living my entire life in the St. Louis region, it is that stories matter.&nbsp; Our own story shapes how we see our world and how we interact with one another.&nbsp; Listening to stories widens our understanding of others and connects us.&nbsp; And, it is the stories of our community that inspire me to represent this region at the highest level by running for Congress. Let's build a vibrant community and nation, together!</strong></p>

<h2>Join the Campaign!</h2>

Long Form

<h2>Join the Conversation</h2>

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<p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Thank you to everyone who voted, volunteered, knocked doors, made calls, hosted events, shared our message, and supported this campaign.</span></p>

<h2>Watch Party Gallery</h2>

<h1>TEST 4 QR Share</h1>

<p>I'll work with you to get us back on track.</p><p>In the 250th anniversary of our country, I will fight for the precious value of a government</p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">of the people, </strong></span><br><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">by the people, </strong></span><br><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">and for the people.</strong></span></p>

Valley of Flowers Parade, Old Town Florissant, 1981. Joan is waving the blue-and-white flag!

<p><strong>Effective policy starts with a conversation, not a talking point.  </strong>My career in education taught me that the best answers are found through curiosity and dialogue. I am committed to being a representative who values your perspective as an essential input for solving our district's toughest challenges. Your insights are the catalyst for the common-sense advocacy I will bring to Washington.</p>

<h2>What matters to you?</h2>

What matters to you

<h2>The reviews are in!</h2>

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Town Hall Reviews

Call to Action

<h1>What matters to you?</h1>

<small><h2><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Election Night</span><br><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Watch Party!</span></h2><h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Tuesday, August 4<sup>th </sup></span>at 6:30 pm<br>at <span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir//Llywelyn's+Pub+-+Webster+Groves,+17+Moody+Ave,+Webster+Groves,+MO+63119/@38.593966,-90.3602277,17z/data=!4m16!1m7!3m6!1s0x87d8cb95c53d09c9:0x8934164a3d8cfbc7!2sLlywelyn's+Pub+-+Webster+Groves!8m2!3d38.593966!4d-90.3576528!16s%2Fg%2F12xq_hnk8!4m7!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x87d8cb95c53d09c9:0x8934164a3d8cfbc7!2m2!1d-90.3576528!2d38.593966?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDcyOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Llywelyn's Pub</a></span></h4></small><p></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Election night is better together — join Team Joan for the watch party!</strong></span></p>

Event - Watch Party

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<h2>Our Gallery</h2>

Ad - Joan is running for you

<p>The VonDras for Congress team and District 2 constituents gathered at Almonds in Clayton to kickoff the VonDras for Congress campaign. Joan <br>spoke about the importance of unity and the need to return to civil conversation. Others spoke in support of Joan and their belief in her ability to listen and act! Many committed to donate their time, money, and support to the campaign. We hope you'll join them! [LINK TO DONATE]</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-headline-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-headline-secondary);">Vote Joan Campaign Kickoff</span></h2>

<h1>To-Do List</h1>

<p>Optional brief description of, for example, the importance of getting out and participating in Joan events. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Donec ipsum lectus, maximus quis magna vel, fermentum accumsan neque.</p>

<h2>Event Galleries</h2>

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<h2>Links</h2><ul><li><p><a href="/youre-invited.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">You're Invited.pdf</a></p></li></ul>

<h1>Endorsements</h1>

<h1>Event Galleries</h1>

<h2>Within our community, there is a deep well of hope, compassion, and desire to move past the rhetoric that divides us.</h2>

<span class="image image-base image-left" style="width: 45%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><img src="https://run.imgix.net/731b2a1c-a46d-4f14-ad7a-8453231bf29d/66099979-c5bc-4ad6-9e61-632a5376ccb7/66099979-c5bc-4ad6-9e61-632a5376ccb7.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=8&amp;sat=46&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=433%2C62%2C762%2C1133&amp;w=1500" alt="Joan walking with granddaughters" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="45" variant="base"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p style="text-align: left;">I taught in this community for nearly 30 years. I know how <strong>vibrant</strong> we can be.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I’m running as an <strong>advocate</strong>: for you, for your family, for your neighbors– for this community. The “aisle” is a fiction. We are united in our core principles.</p><p>Public education is where the pulse of our democracy beats strongest. It connects this next generation to the virtues of our founding documents: the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. In these ideals, we honor the sacrifice of those who gave their lives and livelihoods so that we can live in a just, free society.</p><p>As citizens, we bear the<strong> responsibility </strong>to fulfill the promise of our Founders and work towards a more perfect union.</p><h5><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">I honor</span> our Founders’ vision and sacrifices for our country.</h5><h5><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">I believe</span> in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.</h5><h5><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">I care</span> about the kind of country my granddaughters will inherit.<br></h5><h5></h5>

Hope Well

<p>I will focus on<span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"> increasing affordability</span> and economic opportunity for every family. I will promote American manufacturing, protect union jobs, and work to position the American workforce to lead the future frontier of industry and technology. This work is essential for safeguarding the US dollar's status as the world’s reserve currency and creating high-paying jobs right here in our District.</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Build Economic Opportunity for All</span></h2>

Build Economic Opportunity for

<h2>Join the Conversation<br></h2>

<h1>Donate</h1>

Events Post

Joan Vondras - Tell Me You're Joking podcast thumbnail

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Tell Me You're Joking podcast</span></h4><p>In a district that regularly is avoided by the current representative, Joan looks to approach this race with a message and strategy that not only addresses the actual issues constituents are facing, but promises to be accessible as an actual voice for the people.</p>

Joan Von Dras interview by McGraw Milhaven

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">McGraw Milhaven interviews Joan on 550 KTRS</span></h4>

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<h1>About Joan</h1>

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<h2>Testimonials</h2>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Grandmother of a Former Student of Joan's</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Cheryl Winston</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Former 5th Grade student of Joan's</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">M. Hawthorne</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Former Student</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Noah</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Clayton School District</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Former Student</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Parent of former student</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Marianne Rosenthal</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Mother’s Day Sentiment</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Clay</span></h4>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Maggie Probert</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Voices of American HERSTORY, NWPC STL</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Rebecca Now</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Clinical Research, BSN</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Susan Finn</span></h4>

<h6><p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">M.Ed, RD, LD, FADA, FAND</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Food and Nutrition&nbsp;Consultant</span></p></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Connie Diekman</span></h4>

Testimonials

<h1>Get Involved</h1>

<p>Please use the Share buttons below to post the following text to spread the word on social media!</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Policy Matters! A Community Conversation</span></h2>

Video thumbnail image of Joan smiling next to Policy Matters!

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Policy Matters! A Community Conversation</span></h4><p>Several Democrats are running in Missouri’s 2nd District, but Joan VonDras stands out. A former teacher and active citizen, she’ll bring our voice back to Washington. As a Constitutional Democrat, she’s ready to defend our rights. Join me in supporting her at <span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);"><a href="http://VoteJoan.com" style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">VoteJoan.com</a></span>.</p><small><p><br><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">* Please use the Share buttons below to post this text and spread the word on social media!</span></p></small>

<h1>News</h1>

<p>We are faced with a myriad of challenges coming into 2026.</p><p>Join me at our <a href="https://www.vondrasforcongress.us/events">Policy Matters Town Talks and other events</a> to explore ideas and solutions.</p>

<h2>Joan's DC "To-do List"</h2>

<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">“The Happiness of the People is the sole End of Government,</span><br><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">So the Consent of the People is the only Foundation of it.”<strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">&nbsp;</strong></span><br><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);"> </strong>— <strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">John Adams</strong>, <em>Thoughts on Government</em>  (1776)</span><br></p>

Hero

Bridging the Divide

<h1><span style="color: var(--color-bg1-headline-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-bg1-headline-secondary);">It is time to have a representative who listens to her constituents.</span></h1>

Watch Party Gallery

<h1>Volunteer</h1>

<h1>Contact</h1>

<p>I believe in the Problem Solvers Caucus's ethos of prioritizing common sense and national needs over division. This bipartisan spirit has delivered critical community investments for roads, clean water, and high-speed internet. I will seek membership to advance common-sense solutions and ensure our District receives its fair share of funding and results.</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Break Through Partisan Gridlock</span></h2>

Break through partisan gridloc

<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-headline-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-headline-secondary);">Community Voices</span></h1>

Community Voices

<p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Joan is a proud signatory of Take BAC Congress</strong></span><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">, a national initiative uniting more than 100 congressional candidates from 38 states around a shared commitment to government accountability and structural reform. </span>The coalition supports measures aimed at increasing transparency and reducing conflicts of interest in federal office.</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-headline-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-headline-secondary);">VonDras Will Not Participate in Potential Primary Rerun, Says Focus Must Be Defeating Ann Wagner</span></h2>

<p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.</strong></span> — Joan VonDras announced today that she will not actively participate as a candidate should ongoing litigation over Missouri's congressional district boundaries result in a new Democratic primary for Missouri's 2nd Congressional District, saying Democrats should instead focus their energy on defeating Congresswoman Ann Wagner in November.</p><p>VonDras received 36,906 votes out of 85,780 cast in the August 4 Democratic primary. Just 1,211 additional votes for VonDras would have changed the outcome. Her campaign focused on affordability, health care, protecting democracy, and bringing a problem-solving approach to Congress.</p><p>“I am incredibly proud of the campaign we ran and grateful to every person who voted for me, volunteered, donated, attended a town hall, or simply took the time to talk with me,” VonDras said. “We came incredibly close, but this campaign was never just about me. It was about giving the people of this district a representative who listens to them and works for them.”</p><p>VonDras spoke with Fred Wellman on election night to congratulate him on his victory. With questions surrounding Missouri’s congressional map still working their way through the courts, VonDras said she has now made her own decision about what comes next.</p><p>“If the courts ultimately require another congressional primary, I will not actively participate as a candidate,” VonDras said. “I congratulated Fred on election night after a hard-fought primary. Now Democrats need to come together and focus on the fight that matters: defeating Ann Wagner.”</p><p>“I’m stepping back, but I’m not stepping away,” VonDras said. “There is too much work ahead to strengthen our democracy, bring people together, and make sure their voices are heard. I will continue to show up, listen, and do the work, not just through November, but for the road ahead.”</p><p>VonDras said that after more than a decade in Washington, Wagner has failed to address the everyday concerns she heard repeatedly from voters throughout the campaign.</p><p>“For months, I sat down with people across this district and heard the same concerns again and again. Health care costs too much. Housing costs too much. Groceries cost too much. Families are working harder and wondering why it is getting more difficult just to stay afloat,” VonDras said. “Ann Wagner has had more than a decade in Congress to address these challenges. Instead, she has too often acted as a rubber stamp for the failed policies of this administration, putting partisan politics ahead of the people she was elected to represent.”</p><p>VonDras said the contrast in November should ultimately be about who Congress is supposed to serve.</p><p>“Congress is the People’s House. It belongs to the people, not a political party, not an administration, and not the special interests in Washington,” VonDras said. “The people of Missouri’s 2nd Congressional District deserve a representative who listens to them and works for them. We need leadership that will protect our democracy, lower costs, make health care more affordable, and put working families first.”</p><p>VonDras called on the thousands of voters and volunteers who powered her campaign to carry that same energy into November, working to defeat Wagner and elect Democrats up and down the ballot.</p><p>“To everyone who believed in our campaign, our work isn't finished,” VonDras concluded. “Keep knocking doors. Keep talking to your neighbors. Keep fighting for affordable health care, strong public schools, lower costs, and our democracy. Ann Wagner has had more than a decade to represent the people of Missouri’s 2nd Congressional District. It’s time for a change. It’s time to defeat Ann Wagner and make sure the People’s House works for the people again.”</p>

<h1>Awards & Accomplishments</h1>

<h2>Latest Campaign Developments</h2>

<p>A healthy nation begins with a safe and clean food supply. I will seek a seat on the House Agricultural Committee and use this position to strengthen our local producers and protect the integrity of our national food and water supply. Our region is a center for international agriculture and agribusiness, and 43% of the market flows through it. I also believe that policies that help us adapt to an evolving climate are the best path forward for our economy.</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Create a Safe and Equitable Food Supply</span></h2>

Ensure a Safe & Fair Food Supp

<h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Do you have a testimonial to share?</span></h2><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="/85b504e4-6a12-40e3-a880-d1b813178d2e"><strong>Click here to add your testimonial for Joan!</strong></a></p>

<h1>Student Testimonial Form</h1>

<p>Communication is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Whether you have a question about a policy position, a suggestion for a community event, a media inquiry, or just want to say hello, we’re glad you’re here. Use this form to reach out, and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.</p>

<h2>Your voice matters.</h2>

News Post

<h2>Who represents you matters.<br>Character matters.</h2>

<h2>Interviews &amp; Appearances</h2>

Video thumbnail: Fighting for Medicare for All

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Fighting for Medicare for All</span></h4><p>Health care is a right! Share Joan's 30 second spot!</p>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Joan on stlpr's "Politically Speaking"</span></h4><p>“There are plenty of people that want to put country above party, and those are the people we need to tap into.”</p>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Young Dems of Franklin County Meeting</span></h4>

Photo of Joan VonDras, microphone in had, addressing the audience at the Bonhomme Democrats meeting

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Bomhomme Township Democratic Club Meeting</span></h4><p>Fred Wellman cancelled, but Joan was there, dedicated to accessibility and transparency!</p>

Joan Von Dras second interview by McGraw Milhaven

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">McGraw Milhaven Interviews Joan on 550 KTRS</span></h4><p>Joan sits in with McGraw for a second interview.</p>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-headline-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-headline-secondary);">Share Now</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">The EladPod: Live Town Hall</span></h4><p>Joan sits with Elad Gross and answers viewers' questions on The EladPod, an online, uncensored town hall program designed to bring our government back to you.</p>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Meet the Candidate Town Hall</span></h4><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">New volunteers. New supporters. New conversations.</strong></span></p><p>Watch Joan address the crowded Daniel Boone Library in this town hall from June 15.</p>

MO 2nd Congressional District Democratic Primary Candidate Forum flyer

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Joan Answers Community Questions in This Democratic Primary Candidate Forum</span></h4>

Title graphic for Karen Maurer's 'Her Next Chapter' interview

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">From the Classroom to Congress: Karen Maurer Interviews Joan</span></h4>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Joan Speaks with Bosnian Panel on Bostel TV St. Louis</span></h4>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Heidi Glaus Interviews Joan on 550 KTRS</span></h4><p>Joan joins The Heidi Glaus Show with Josh Gilbert and Bob Ramsey.</p>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Tell Me You're Joking Podcast</span></h4><p>In a district that regularly is avoided by the current representative, Joan looks to approach this race with a message and strategy that not only addresses the actual issues constituents are facing but also promises to be accessible as an actual voice for the people.</p>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">McGraw Milhaven Interviews Joan on 550 KTRS</span></h4>

Interviews

<p><strong>Introductory text (optional)</strong></p>

<h2>Endorsements</h2>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Former State Representative</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Mary Nichols</span></h4>

Photo of Ann Ross smiling at Joan's event

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Past President of the National Women’s Political Caucus of Metro StL</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Ann Ross</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Immediate Past Mayor, Clayton, MO</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Michelle Harris</span></h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">Former Candidate for CD2, Epidemiologist, Columbia University</span></h6>

<h4><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Nick Vivio</span></h4>

Endorsements

<h2>Missed Joan’s Bridging the Divide Workshops?</h2><p><strong>No worries! </strong></p><p>We have our Braver Angels of Greater St. Louis Alliance. Contact <a href="mailto:skidwell@braverangels.org">skidwell@braverangels.org</a> to connect!</p>

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August 4th, 2026!

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