Bradley is currently President/Co-Founder of American Bridge 21st Century PAC, the largest opposition research, video tracking, and rapid response organization in Democratic politics. Most recently, he served as President of Media Matters for America, overseeing its $11 million annual budget and a team of over 70 people. Prior, Beychok served as Campaign Director for American Bridge. Named a “Rising Star” in 2012 by Campaigns and Elections, Beychok has led winning campaigns for both the Senate and House. A native of Baton Rouge, LA, Bradley began his political career working for the famed political consultant James Carville.
AAPC: What’s next for you this year?
Bradley: Building back Democratic electoral power from a national, state and local level. I have the honor of leading our team of 70 people at American Bridge 21st Century. We have an amazing group and a big challenge ahead of us as we aim to defeat Republicans in 2019 and 2020 using opposition research, video tracking, and rapid response communications.
AAPC: To what do you credit your success at such a young age?
Bradley: Hard work, strong mentors, and a like many things in life, a bit of luck…. When I started working on campaigns in high school and college, I quickly learned you won’t win every election or campaign. But, if you listen, learn, and try to form a well rounded skill set, you can become an effective political professional. There is no education like getting in the trenches on campaigns and realizing there is always more to learn.
AAPC: What advice would you give to a young professional who has their eye on being a future 40 Under 40 Award winner?
Bradley: Be humble. Work hard. Treat people with respect. Know from the start, you will never have all the answers. Good campaigns, managers, and organizations know without a strong and cohesive team, you can’t withstand the modern campaign grinds. Even in the most stressful campaign moments, there is always another day. You have to recognize the swings of the news cycle, your professional career, and your electoral success are going to be huge. That’s normal and we have all faced tremendous setbacks, the key is to learn and grow. Lastly, don’t be afraid to gamble. That could mean working for a big underdog who inspires you or aiming for a role that may be a big step up, aim high.
This is a business that young professionals can grow on a career ladder at a much quicker pace than in a corporate sphere. That’s a good thing. Its encouraging to see younger folks in our industry grow from being volunteers or field warriors to managing campaigns or getting elected to local/federal office within one cycle.
