Without a doubt, Petra’s interest in politics originated from her personal experience of homelessness due to parental abandonment. From her pre-teen years to adulthood, she constantly had to confront seemingly unjust bureaucracies that spurred within her a determination to change the system.

Today, Petra Gaskins is the Director of Outreach & Programming for Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman where she helps the Congresswoman connect to residents in the district. Previously, she served as an Aide to Governor Phil Murphy where she served as a liaison between the Governor and federal, county and local elected officials in Essex, Hunterdon and Mercer counties. She also serves on the Executive Board of New Leaders Council-New Jersey which promotes and trains the next generation of Progressive leaders.  Petra is an alumna of Rider University. She is obsessed with corgis, long hikes and is patiently waiting for the next season of Game of Thrones.