Addisu Demissie

Addisu Demissie is a political strategist who’s spent his career at the heart of American democracy. A Yale Law graduate and former Obama organizer, he’s led campaigns at every level—from local measures to presidential bids—for leaders including Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Cory Booker, Joe Biden, and Gavin Newsom. His work is driven by a belief in people-powered change and a deep respect for the art of strategy, storytelling, and public trust.

As founding partner of 50+1 Strategies, Addisu helps political, corporate, and nonprofit clients engage communities, move policy, and win with integrity. His work spans far beyond elections, shaping long-term civic engagement programs, public affairs strategies, and talent pipelines built to last. He’s also a frequent voice on MSNBC and NPR, breaking down what’s really happening in American politics for national audiences.

The Politics of Leadership

Addisu brings both the sharp mind of a lawyer and the instincts of a field organizer—equal parts rigor and heart. At Responsive 2025, he’ll reunite with longtime friend and classmate Marie Szuts for a candid conversation about politics, power, and what campaigns can teach us about leading through complexity.