A Historic Nomination
Dr. Valerie McCray has made history as Indiana’s first Black woman nominee for the U.S. Senate. At 65, she secured the Democratic nomination in May 2024 after defeating Marc Carmichael, a former state lawmaker and lobbyist. McCray is now set to challenge Republican Congressman Jim Banks for the open Senate seat in November.
Her campaign is focused on key issues including reinstating abortion rights, addressing immigration concerns, and seeking solutions to the Israeli-Palestine conflict.
“The fact that I can claim victory in the Primary says one thing – the people of Indiana are ready for someone who understands their struggles,” McCray said. She is committed to fighting for mental health care, fair wages, and reproductive rights.
A Lifelong Advocate for Mental Health
Dr. McCray is a clinical psychologist with a career dedicated to trauma and mental health. She has spent years evaluating U.S. servicemen and women suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injuries from conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Gulf War, and Vietnam.
Her extensive experience includes working in high-security prisons and with victims of violence. According to the Hamilton County Democratic Party, her background makes her uniquely qualified to address mental health issues at the Senate level.
McCray’s work has also involved helping young people and families affected by violence, emphasizing her commitment to improving lives across various communities.
Education and Motivation
A proud Hoosier, McCray holds a bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD from the University of Michigan. Despite her successful career in psychology, she felt there was more to accomplish. “It was a matter of, do I continue to keep feeling as if I am just not enough to go around, or do I go to Washington, D.C.,” McCray explained.
She decided to pursue a Senate seat to push for significant policy changes, including reforming gun laws, improving health care, and ensuring fair wages. McCray’s goal is to create meaningful change in Washington, D.C., and address pressing issues that impact everyday Americans.
