Cheryl Hori
Founder & Chief Strategist
Pacific Campaign House
This month, AAPC caught up with new Young Professional Member, Cheryl Hori.
AAPC: Why did you join AAPC?
Cheryl: To build relationships, be inspired by some of the best in the industry, and mentor rising stars.
AAPC: How did you recover from your first campaign loss?
Cheryl: My first campaign loss was a big one: the 2016 Presidential. After pouring everything into helping lead the digital department as Priorities USA’s Deputy Digital Director, I took a few months to reflect on the election and re-purpose my digital organizing skills into organizing a series of charity 5k runs in DC. By targeting local runners, investing in email acquisition, and hyping local businesses through digital ads, I used my campaign experience to sell out the events. It was a small win and the perfect distraction to donate thousands to local non-profits before hopping back on the campaign trail.
AAPC: Why is being part of a bipartisan organization valuable to you?
Cheryl: As a country, we’re becoming more and more polarized. The more each party stays in its corner, the less we accomplish, and the slower we progress. As advisors to some of the biggest game changers in politics, we have the power to shift the narrative and set the stage for a more collaborative and effective political process.
AAPC: When did you know this was the career for you?
Cheryl: I always knew I wanted to work in politics/government, but after working on the Hill, I realized I didn’t want to work in such a static environment. Working on digital campaigns is the perfect blend of creativity, policy, and having a measurable impact (plus, the results of a fundraising push, persuasion ad, acquisition buy…etc. are immediate). And as a millennial, I can really appreciate that instant gratification.
AAPC: How do you manage high-stress situations?
Cheryl: This might sound funny coming from a digital consultant: I unplug. Whether it’s a long-term strategic hurdle we’re working to resolve, or an unexpected client fire drill, taking a few minutes to shut off the noise, step back, and fully assess the situation with a clear mind (eyes and heart) allows me to refocus and execute what needs to be done.
