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Chuck Rocha
Come for the head shot, stay for the accent!
Professional Background
Chuck Rocha has dedicated his remarkable career to advocating for workers' rights and minorities in the political landscape. His journey began in the heart of East Texas at the United Rubber Workers Local 746, where he made history by becoming the youngest officer at just 22 years of age, representing the interests of the 1,200 person local. His impressive rise continued as he took on the role of the youngest and first person of color to serve as the National Political Director of the United Steelworkers of America (USW) at the age of 29. In this pivotal position, Chuck developed one of the top national labor political departments in the United States, showcasing his commitment to labor rights and political engagement.
In 2010, Chuck embarked on an entrepreneurial path by founding Solidarity Strategies, a full-service nonprofit and political consulting firm. Inspired by a vision of diversity and inclusion, Chuck aimed to create mentorship opportunities for the next generation of minority professionals. Over the past decade, Solidarity Strategies has employed over 100 young people of color, solidifying its status as one of the most successful minority-owned political consulting firms in the nation. Under Chuck's guidance, the firm has played an essential role in numerous significant political campaigns across the country.
Chuck's political expertise has been sought after in several presidential, Congressional, and gubernatorial races, notably as a key strategist in both of Senator Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaigns. His unique experience positions him among a select group of people of color contributing to the leadership of a presidential campaign, and his journey is particularly inspiring given the obstacles he overcame, including a criminal record and becoming a single father at just 20 years old.
Education and Achievements
Despite not having a traditional college education, Chuck's dedication to self-improvement and learning has been evident throughout his career. His early career milestones reflect a relentless pursuit of excellence in labor rights and political advocacy. His work has resonated throughout the political community, earning him a place as a New York Times op-ed contributor. Additionally, Chuck is the author of the highly anticipated book, “Tío Bernie: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Bernie Sanders’ Winning Latino Strategy,” which dives into the Latino outreach strategy he pioneered during the Bernie 2020 campaign.
Chuck’s continued engagement in the political landscape extends to his role as the founder of Nuestro PAC, a partisan Super PAC dedicated to educating and mobilizing Latino voters in crucial states for the 2020 general election and beyond. The Super PAC reflects Chuck's unwavering commitment to ensuring that Latino voices are heard and represented in American politics.
Personal Life and Values
Chuck often cites his twin grandsons, Wyatt and Rowan, as his proudest accomplishments, which illustrates his deep commitment to family and the next generation. His personal experiences as a single father and community advocate deeply inform his work, driving his mission to empower others while striving for a more equitable society.
With a rich blend of experience, compassion, and vision, Chuck Rocha’s journey exemplifies the impact of perseverance, dedication, and commitment to improving the lives of individuals and communities.
Achievements
- Youngest officer at United Rubber Workers Local 746
- First person of color and youngest National Political Director at USW
- Founder of Solidarity Strategies, employing over 100 young people of color
- Key strategist in both Bernie Sanders presidential campaigns
- Author of the upcoming book "Tío Bernie"
- Founder of Nuestro PAC, focusing on Latino voter mobilization
