Machaela Cavanaugh, a dedicated advocate for equality, grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, where she has dedicated nearly two decades to community affairs and public service. Her educational background includes a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Machaela's commitment to advocacy shines through her historic achievement: she conducted the longest filibuster in U.S. history, lasting an impressive 60 days. This remarkable feat was undertaken to oppose harmful legislation targeting transgender youth, but it was not the first time Machaela championed vulnerable children. In 2021, she established a Special Investigative Oversight Committee within the Legislature to investigate a fraudulent contract with a private child welfare organization, resulting in the contract's termination and the subsequent deprivatization of child welfare in Nebraska. In 2022, Machaela successfully passed her priority bill to ensure that all children on the Developmental Disability services waitlist received access to Medicaid and an annual stipend for services, preventing families from facing financial hardship while caring for their children.

Machaela believes in the power of perseverance, inclusive family values, and unwavering dedication to social and equitable justice. Her work continues to drive positive change in her community and beyond.

Machaela Cavanaugh is a champion for equality, tirelessly working towards a more just and inclusive world for all. She currently resides in Omaha with her husband, Nick, and their children, Della, Harriet, and Barrett.