As a Monument rite of passage, we wanted to take a moment to introduce you to the newest member of the Monument Team.
Before joining Monument, Jess spent almost a decade in campaigns and legislative offices across the northwest providing policy, communications and legislative support in addition to news writing for business-focused online publications. Most recently, he created and launched Forge Washington to develop local leadership and improve targeted messaging in Washington State. Prior to Forge, he served as communications lead in the Washington State Senate for several senators representing multiple regions and policy fields.
What got you interested in politics?
I’ve always been a bit of a history nerd and when my dad took me on a trip to DC my senior year of high school it really cemented for me how much politics defines history. That pushed me to want to play a part in history, not just learn about it.
What is your favorite Monument in Washington D.C.?
Lincoln Memorial in DC and Mt. Rainier in Seattle. Both produce an inescapable sense of awe and reverence that always puts the rest of my life in perspective.
What is your favorite book?
Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
If you could check one thing off your bucket list what would it be?
Publish a book
If you could interview one person (dead or alive) who would it be?
Michelangelo. I’m constantly curious about what creates excellence and there are few that demonstrated greater excellence in their craft than him.