Meet Katrina
Born into an immigrant family in Chicago, Katrina knows the challenges that every day families face. Her grandparents came to America as refugees after surviving forced labor camps in Nazi Germany.
She was born in Chicago into a blue collar family. Her father was a carpenter and she grew up learning the ins and outs of a construction business, developing life skills along the way. In high school she began working full time on nights and weekends while keeping up with her studies and supporting her family as needed. After graduating high school, she went to community college. Unable to pay for higher education, she decided to do something she was passionate about, and went to trade school for her cosmetology license. During this time, she worked in a corporate setting, learning customer service skills, leadership skills, and organization. After the company got bought out, she felt it was the perfect time to work at a Salon and grow her cosmetology business. This blue collar background drives her support for investing in middle America. Commission based and trade businesses are often forgotten about when policy is written. Katrina knows that we need to ensure small businesses are included in domestic policy proposals.
As an activist, Katrina has spent her time advocating for policies that benefit everyday families. Advocating for affordable healthcare, quality education, economic reform and climate action.
Katrina has strong Ukrainian roots and is proud of her Ukrainian heritage. After Russia invaded Ukraine, she knew she had to do more to participate in democracy and support her community. She has supported local refugees, organized fundraisers and advocated on Capitol Hill to fight for freedom over fascism.
Katrina is running for Congress to challenge a system that benefits the top 1% while leaving the rest behind. Despite being a first time candidate, Katrina has been inspired and motivated by her community members who are looking for a change and hope for a candidate who will stand up to special interest lobbyists and fight for working Americans.
Media
This granddaughter of Ukrainian refugees wants to oust Rep. Andy Biggs
To Rep. Andy Biggs, Ukraine’s effort to fend off Russia’s invasion is a remote cause and a drain on public spending.
To Katrina Schaffner, a Democrat and Ukrainian activist running against Biggs, R-Ariz., in Arizona’s 5th Congressional District, the matter is personal.
As the Next Representative from Arizona House CD Five, Katrina Schaffner Will Put American Families First
The People in Arizona House Congressional District Five need change.
Change from the MAGA and Freedom Caucus suicide course Andy Biggs would place Arizona and the Nation in if he and his White Nationalist supporters had the power to steer reactionary legislation that would cripple the middle class and take away hard-earned rights from all Americans, especially women, ethnic minorities, and members of the LGBTQ community.
Ukrainian-American woman to challenge Rep. Andy Biggs for Az. 5th District House seat
Grandparents emigrated to U.S. after escaping Nazi Germany
The Ukrainian-American and east Mesa local announced her campaign against Biggs in mid-October to challenge him for Arizona’s 5th District House seat in the 2024 election.
Arizona 5th Congressional District candidates: Where they stand on issues
The Arizona Republic sent a brief questionnaire to the candidates in Arizona’s 5th Congressional District. Schaffner’s responses are below.
“Name two big problems facing the district you’re running to represent and how you would address them if elected?”
“The two main issues, I think, are national security and Democracy. That being said, there are many more issues that are the focal point of this election year. I believe that these issues are all tied to our economy. Most of us agree that we need a strong democracy and should protect our national security. We have been distracted by MAGA Republicans, like Andy Biggs, fear-mongering about an “Alien Invasion”. The truth is that it was MAGA Republicans in the house who killed the Border bill, which also included funding for the fentanyl crisis. I would support passing the border bill to provide funding for border patrol and increase technology and staffing to secure the border. “
Arizona Democrats Condemn MAGA-Convicted Trump’s-Republican’s Project 2025
Replying to a request for comment from Blog for Arizona, several leading Arizona Democrats and office candidates voiced deep concerns over the MAGA-Convicted Trump-Republican equivalent of Mein Kampf and The Handmaids Tale-Project 2025.
Arizona Congressional House District Five Candidate Katrina Schaffner commented:
“Let’s be clear: Project 2025 is the GOP Playbook. The Trump campaign may have realized the branding is a political liability, but the American people see through political games. Trump’s Agenda 47 echoes Project2025 and will be implemented if Trump wins this November. We must stand united against all forms of fascism. Your vote = your voice. Use it to be heard! We cannot allow these extremists in power to eliminate all the progress we have made in this country.”
Biggs to meet newcomer in Congressional District 5 House race
Congressional District 5 covers an area seen as strongly Republican with one of the most visible members of the House Freedom Caucus holding the seat.
But that has not stopped a newcomer from entering the fray.
Incumbent Andy Biggs faces no primary challenge but figures to see Katrina Schaffner in the Nov. 5 general election. Schaffner also has no opposition in the Democratic primary July 30.
Here are their biographies.
Roman Ulman is joined by Katrina Schaffner, Candidate for Congress in CD5. Hear them discuss how MAGA Republicans in Congress are holding up legislation, how you can help, and Katrina’s vision for the future.
Tune is as Katrina Schaffner answers questions about her personal background, political advocacy efforts and running a congressional campaign.
Catch Katrina’s PSA Announcement across iHeart Media stations. Register to vote by visiting vote.gov. Make your voice heard!
Testimonials
Her articulate communication and strategic approach make her a valuable asset in advocating for meaningful policies. I’ve witnessed her unwavering commitment to social justice, and it’s evident that she’s making a lasting impact in the realm of politics. Those who have worked with Katrina have been both enlightened and motivated by her dedication to the United States of America and its leadership in the world, and I wholeheartedly recommend her for anyone seeking a dedicated Congresswoman representing Arizona in the US Congress.”
-Rev. John McGovern
2 the Nations, AZ
We are both descends of strong, proud Ukrainian grandparents who suffered under authoritarian rule. I met Katrina through our mutual fundraising efforts for Ukraine. When you fundraise with someone you come to know a person‘s spirit and dedication. I have found Katrina to be disciplined, compassionate, and informed. Katrina understands why it is so important for Ukraine to succeed. She understands that when we support Ukraine and their fight for freedom, we, at the same time, are keeping America safe. Ukraine is fighting so the rest of the world does not have to; they deserve our continued support. Please cast your vote for democracy — vote for Katrina Schaffner!”
-Cindy
You Are the Angel, AZ
Looking back on our relationship, first as co-workers then later as friends, when Katrina moved on to start her life with her wonderful family, I was trying to find the best way to describe her as a person. Integrity was the first word that came to mind – her picture should pop up the moment you search the word via any source. When I learned that Katrina decided to run for office, my first thought was “really?” I never pictured her as a politician. She’s passionate, deliberate in her views, trustworthy, simply put the kind of person you can always count on. Not the words I would use to describe todays politician or the political climate in our country. But if you ask the average person in society, they’re likely to tell you a person like Katrina is exactly what they think of when they look for leadership. I remember the day she walked into my office to let me know it was time for her to say goodbye and move on to the next chapter in life. “How am I going to replace her,” I thought. When it was clear there was nothing I could do to convince her to stay, I felt sadness for all of us at our company, both professionally and personally. This was a necessary step for her that ultimately led her to where she is today. When asked by HR to complete her exit interview paper work, I came to the question “would you rehire this team member?” Without hesitation I checked the “Yes” box then realized there wasn’t a space for comments. So I took a few moments to type up some thoughts about her, attached the printout to the HR form and hand delivered it to our HR Director and asked that we modify the form. She read my comments then later followed up and agreed. I wish Katrina well as she moves forward in her pursuit to be part of the next generation of public servants. We need people like her representing us every day. I’m excited for her and her family, I’m equally excited for me and my family knowing that I will sleep better at night having faith and trust in her abilities. She will do a great job and represent the best of what our society has to offer – while doing it with the utmost integrity!”
-Sid C, IL
Katrina’s dedication, passion, and vision for positive change make her an exceptionally promising candidate.
Katrina’s commitment to advocating for the people of Arizona and her unwavering dedication to social justice are truly inspiring. Her ability to articulate complex issues and communicate with clarity and conviction showcases her natural leadership qualities.
As Katrina steps into the realm of politics, her fresh perspective and innovative ideas will undoubtedly invigorate the discourse in our community. Her willingness to listen to the concerns of constituents and engage with diverse perspectives demonstrates her genuine commitment to representing the voices of all Arizonans.
While Katrina brings a new energy to the campaign trail, her passion for public service and her deep-rooted desire to make a difference in the lives of others make her a standout candidate for the House of Representatives. I am confident that Katrina Schaffner will bring a much-needed breath of fresh air to Arizona politics and will serve our state with integrity, compassion, and dedication. I wholeheartedly endorse her candidacy and encourage others to join me in supporting her journey to the US Congress
-Oli Nevinska
Co-Founder & Director of Strategic Initiatives at Cactus and Tryzub, AZ
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