A new Common Cause leader will drive the organization’s pro-democracy work in California, as Darius Kemp joins the team as its newest executive director. In this role, Kemp will focus on increasing government transparency, getting big money out of our politics, championing people power, and strengthening California’s election system. 

“I have loved policy and advocacy work since I was a teenager in the YMCA Youth & Government Program. I’m proud to join the Common Cause team and bring my passion for civic engagement to the organization,” said Kemp. “In my work, I’ve continually seen the impact that Common Cause has in our state, both in the legislature and out in the field assisting voters. I look forward to the work ahead, helping build a reflective, responsive, people-powered democracy that works for us all.”

Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, and a California resident for 16 years, Kemp leverages a powerful blend of community advocacy and strategic leadership, with a deeply ingrained commitment to community service in his work. With over two decades of experience in social movements, organizing, and public policy, Kemp has made a measurable impact with organizations like the University of California Student Association and Working America, the community affiliate of the AFL-CIO. 

Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Kemp is a proud graduate of the HBCU Alabama A&M University, holds a Master of Arts in International Relations from the University of Birmingham, and a Master of Public Administration from the Goldman School of Public Policy at UC Berkeley.  He is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer serving in Jamaica. 

“We know the critical role California serves as a policy leader, paving the way for a fairer, more inclusive democracy,” said Common Cause President and CEO, Virginia Kase Solomón. “We are thrilled to have Darius leading the way earning more wins for the people, serving as a watchdog, and championing accessibility to our democracy for all, especially during this time of national instability.”

Prior to joining Common Cause, Kemp served as the head of social equity and community change at Eaze Technologies, California’s leading delivery platform. While at Eaze, he spearheaded a transformative social equity program, earning over $19 million in sales for small businesses and providing millions in resources. In this role, he was instrumental in shaping equitable drug policy and providing expert guidance to elected officials across California, New York, Nevada, Michigan, New Jersey, Connecticut and Colorado.

When he’s not driving systemic transformation, he enjoys immersing himself in the world of Afrofuturism, exploring new culinary horizons, traveling, and enjoying the company of his dog, Biscuit.

Darius Kemp can be reached via email at dkemp@commoncause.org.