Chris KluweChris Kluwe

Chris Kluwe, a former NFL player turned outspoken activist, has been a vocal advocate for civil liberties, LGBTQ+ rights, and free speech. He has consistently used his platform to challenge injustice and is running to bring that same courage and independence to Sacramento.

Courage California endorses Chris Kluwe for State Assembly to put AD-72 on the right track for progress.

Progressive endorsements: Chris Kluwe has the endorsement of many groups, including Courage California, Chispa, California Working Families Party, Jane Fonda Climate PAC, and many labor groups.

Top issues: Affordable housing, education, climate action, LGBTQIA+ protections and civil rights, and AI regulation.

Governance and community leadership experience: Kluwe is a former NFL player, a coach, author, and a longtime civil rights advocate. He set multiple team records for the Minnesota Vikings, then lost his job for speaking out for LGBTQIA+ rights. Kluwe is a longtime supporter of marriage equality, contributing to efforts to challenge Proposition 8, and gained viral attention in 2025 after being arrested for a peaceful protest of a MAGA-themed plaque at a Huntington Beach public library.

Primary: Jun 2, 2026