Heather Chen

Heather Chen is a student and writer at Columbia University. She is a former managing editor of Columbia’s undergraduate newspaper, the Columbia Daily Spectator, and a former editorial intern at Defector.

Litman, who lives in New York City, noted that Zohran Mamdani’s win led to thousands of young people signing up with Run For Something.

Young Democrats Are Done Waiting for Their Turn in Office Young Democrats Are Done Waiting for Their Turn in Office

Like a lot of Americans, Amanda Litman thinks the aging Democratic Party is out of touch. That’s why she started an organization dedicated to electing young progressives.

Apr 7, 2026 / StudentNation / Heather Chen

Inside the “ICE Off Campus” Movement

Inside the “ICE Off Campus” Movement Inside the “ICE Off Campus” Movement

Amid repression from the Trump administration, students nationwide are forming alliances with faculty groups, unions, and alumni to protect undocumented and international students...

Mar 11, 2026 / StudentNation / Heather Chen

Abdul El-Sayed at a town hall during his campaign for Michigan's Senate primary.

Abdul El-Sayed Wants to “Throw Some Righteous Punches” Abdul El-Sayed Wants to “Throw Some Righteous Punches”

As the Democratic Party debates its identity, this progressive primary candidate and doctor is primed for a breakout moment in the race for Michigan’s Senate seat.

Jan 23, 2026 / StudentNation / Heather Chen

Thousands of protesters gathered on Park Avenue for the “Make Billionaires Pay March” on September 20 ahead of New York City’s Climate Week.

Where Did All the Youth Climate Activists Go? Where Did All the Youth Climate Activists Go?

The “Make Billionaires Pay” march might hint at where the climate movement is headed—away from fossil fuel divestment and toward broader resistance, with fewer young people.

Sep 24, 2025 / StudentNation / Heather Chen

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