Oftentimes, candidates are shy about discussing their electoral ambitions. In a political climate defined by outsider status and anti-establishment fervor, many candidates are cautious when it comes to expressing confidence about their enthusiasm for electoral politics. Not Pam Keith.

Pam Keith, one of two Democratic candidates for Congress in Florida’s 18th, does not hide her belief that she is meant for public service. A former U.S. Navy officer and lawyer, Keith is unapologetic about her drive to serve her country. In 2016, without ever having run for public office before, she entered the Democratic Senate primary to take on Republican incumbent Marco Rubio. Despite massive disadvantages in terms of name recognition and funding, Keith managed to win over 15% of the vote. But she wasn’t discouraged by losing the nomination. Shortly after, she jumped into the congressional race to take on Republican incumbent Brian Mast in her home district of Florida’s 18th.

Keith, who in May earned the endorsement of the progressive PAC Justice Democrats, is squaring up against fellow non-incumbent Lauren Baer in the upcoming August 28 Democratic primary. Yet again, Keith is at a fundraising disadvantage, with $476,295 raised to Baer’s $1,561,522, according to the most recent FEC filings. But Keith is confident that she’ll still prevail on August 28 through hard work and grassroots energy.

Pam Keith joined us on the podcast to discuss immigration, her underdog campaign, and the Florida voting rights initiative to restore the franchise to formerly incarcerated Floridians. Listen on iTunes or in your browser below:

Follow the Pam Keith campaign! electpamkeith.com | Facebook | Twitter