Destiny Drake West is a dedicated child and family advocate, policy expert, and former congressional candidate who has spent her career fighting for those too often left behind.

She currently serves at the Children’s Defense Fund, where she works on national policy to protect and expand programs like Medicaid, SNAP, the Child Tax Credit, and public education—programs that directly impact working families, children, and vulnerable communities.

A proud product of public housing and food stamps, Destiny knows firsthand what it means to grow up in poverty—and what it takes to overcome it. That lived experience fuels her mission to build a better future for all children, not just the privileged few.

Before joining CDF, Destiny served in key leadership roles at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). At HHS, she provided policy oversight of more than $1 billion in federal funding to grow and diversify the U.S. health workforce—ensuring that underserved communities had access to doctors, therapists, and mental health support. At HUD, she led the Title V Surplus Property Program, helping communities convert unused federal buildings into shelters and resources for people experiencing homelessness.

In 2024, Destiny ran for Congress in Maryland’s 6th District, building strong grassroots momentum behind her bold, family-first vision. Her campaign focused on ending child poverty, improving maternal health, defending public education, and ensuring every family—no matter their zip code—has a fair shot.

As a mother of five, military wife, and long-time public servant, Destiny is committed to making sure government works for families—not just the wealthy and well-connected. Whether in federal agencies, in the halls of Congress, or on the campaign trail, Destiny brings people together to get results.

• Destiny, through her MOVE Initiative, helps families become informed and engaged voters!
• Engaging 10,000 local families.

Join the MOVEment