News Herald: Wyandotte resident recognized as one of best campaign professionals under 40

Charly Norton has been honored by the American Association of Political Consultants as one of the 40 best and brightest campaign professionals under 40 years old.

She serves as vice president of Bergmann Zwerdling Direct, a leading Democratic voter contact firm based in Washington, DC. The Wyandotte resident is based in metro Detroit and handles work for clients in Michigan and across the country.

“AAPC is pleased to recognize Charly Norton as a member of our 2021 class of 40 Under 40 for their outstanding achievements,” said AAPC President Becki Donatelli. “Each year, this award recognizes 40 rising stars in American political consulting who have made a real difference in campaigns.”

Norton said she was honored to earn this recognition from her peers, mentors and industry professionals.

“Although it isn’t exactly a walk in the park working in this industry as a woman and a mom of a young child, I am grateful for the opportunity to work with a great team to elect public servants, from all backgrounds and walks of life, who share our values,” she said. “With our democracy under attack, this is another important reminder of the responsibility each of us have in building a fairer, safer, healthier, more just country where everyone can thrive.”

From leading communications on top U.S. Senate and ballot measure campaigns to managing constituency press for President Barack Obama’s re-election in Chicago HQ, Norton is a battle-tested Democratic strategist with experience leading programs in more than 30 states, the AAPC stated in a press release.

BZD specializes in persuasive direct mail, taking aim at winning campaigns for Democratic candidates and progressive organizations nationwide.

The AAPC recognized the winners of the 40 Under 40 Awards at the 2021 Pollie Conference on Oct. 19 in Las Vegas. The conference brings the leading political professionals in the world together to network and hear from top technology innovators, pollsters, pundits and service providers. The 40 Under 40 Awards Ceremony and Reception was sponsored by PayClearly, and was held at Caesars Palace.

“This year’s judging process was especially difficult for our bipartisan team of judges as this year’s nomination pool included many qualified and talented young political consultants who excelled in the face of incredible obstacles throughout the 2020 campaign cycle,” said AAPC Vice President Larry Huynh. “We were beyond pleased to celebrate the achievements of this year’s 40 Under 40 class in person at Pollies 21 Live.”

Only 20 Democrats and 20 Republicans in the United States were named to AAPC’s exclusive “40 Under 40” winners list. Candidates were evaluated on their role as a strategic consultant in the industry, along with leadership and professional accomplishments in political consulting.

Founded in 1969, the AAPC is a multi-partisan organization of political and public affairs professionals dedicated to improving democracy. The AAPC has over 1,400 members hailing from all corners of the globe. It is the largest association of political and public affairs professionals in the world.

Source: https://www.thenewsherald.com/2021/12/02/wyandotte-resident-recognized-as-one-of-best-campaign-professionals-under-40/