Rachel Griffin Accurso, known to millions as 'Ms. Rachel' from her popular children's educational content, has endorsed a slate of progressive Democratic candidates. The endorsements, shared with her over five million Instagram followers, include former Rep. Cori Bush and Michigan U.S. Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed, among a dozen others across eight states.
Accurso stated her support for candidates she believes prioritize children's safety and well-being. "I think all kids and people should have medical care. I don’t think anyone needs a billion dollars ever, I think all kids should be safe from violence," Accurso said in an Instagram post. She also expressed a desire for politicians to refrain from attacking one another and for large groups to not use significant funds to oppose candidates.
Among those endorsed is Cori Bush, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), who is seeking to regain her former House seat. Bush has publicly advocated for policies such as abolishing ICE, implementing Medicare for All, ending overseas conflicts, and achieving economic justice. El-Sayed's campaign platform also calls for Medicare-for-All, taxing billionaire wealth, and banning corporate contributions in politics. A federal filing indicated a $3,000 payment from Accurso to El-Sayed's campaign prior to the Michigan primary.
El-Sayed, while receiving endorsements from figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has stated he does not identify as a socialist, despite speaking at DSA events. He told MSNBC host Jen Psaki that his policy positions, such as Medicare for All, are driven by a focus on long-term sustainability over short-term corporate profits.
Accurso has previously engaged in political advocacy. In June, she visited Delaney Hall, an immigration detention facility in Newark, New Jersey, and has urged Congress to end family detention and separation policies. She stated that her involvement stems from a deep concern for children and families, compelling her to support those facing hardship.
The endorsements have drawn criticism, including from the National Republican Senatorial Committee, which has linked Accurso and El-Sayed to a "socialist, they/them, anti-America agenda."