Jesse conceptualized and runs the Beyond Bars campaign to curb mass incarceration. His work includes strategic planning, producing videos, writing articles, and forging partnerships with groups working to make a positive difference in this field. Previously a political campaign staffer and communications strategist for progressive causes, his work has covered an array of policy areas including climate change, campaign finance, drug treatment, and funding for social services. Jesse was also the founding director of Faithful Democrats, a group that worked to reclaim the national values debate from the Religious Right. He has a master's in public policy from Harvard and a bachelor's in government from Wesleyan University.