Alex Tarascio
Director, Policy & Political Strategy
Alex Tarascio is an international political expert and strategist with extensive experience working with political parties, civil society organizations, and democratic institutions across the United States and around the world. Alex began his career in grassroots political organizing for conservative causes and candidates – running campaigns in more than two dozen states. Alex later worked for Rep. Kevin McCarthy in Washington D.C., interacting constantly with his Bakersfield constituents. After leaving the Hill, Alex spent nine years at the International Republican Institute helping patriots in dozens of countries fight for their communities in the political arena. His projects advanced human dignity and freedom by giving citizens the tools to effectively petition their government, and by supporting political parties to better represent their constituents. Alex drew on his expertise as a political operative to train international partners in Europe, Eurasia, the Middle East, and beyond, how to employ cutting-edge American electioneering tools and approaches. Alex lives in Alexandria, Virginia with his wife, daughter, and American Bulldog.
What was your first job?
I packed blueberries for 12 hours a day at a local farm near to where I grew up in southern Oregon.
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be...
Growth. I love growing things, but it requires patience waiting for months or years to see results. It’s not the typical choice, but I like to imagine the possibilities of growing anything in moments and am convinced this would be the best power. Plus, I could go to Mars and not starve.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given is...
Take risks, and never be afraid to start a fight.
What is your most significant accomplishment as a professional?
I trained an activist from a repressive authoritarian country on political strategy around an upcoming election. Even though he had decades of experience as a political organizer, he told me in broken English that I was the best political strategist he’d ever worked with. In my current role, I strive to continue living up to that high compliment.
