Maria Nieto Orta is proud to call Nevada home. While she may not be Battle Born, she is certainly Battle Tested.

Born in México, Maria made history as the first undocumented person to serve as President of any chartered unit within the Young Democrats of America during her time leading the Young Democrats of Nevada. Her path through leadership in the organization has been one marked by resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to community.

As a DACA recipient, Maria brings her lived experience to the forefront of her advocacy, centering immigrant communities through organizing, policy work, and civic engagement. She has contributed to numerous local and statewide campaigns, led impactful policy initiatives, and held leadership roles at various nonprofits.

Before becoming President of the Young Democrats of Nevada, Maria was elected as the organization’s Hispanic and Latino Caucus Chair, transforming it into the fastest-growing caucus in the state. Nationally, she also served as Executive Vice Chair of the Hispanic and Latinx Caucus for the Young Democrats of America. Maria is also deeply committed to reproductive justice, Latino political representation and immigration equity. She serves as Vice President of the Wild West Access Fund, a Nevada-based abortion fund, and sits on the board of the Latino Caucus of the Nevada State Democratic Party.