Why I ran for office
During my career as a scientist, a working mom and small business owner, the idea of running for public office never crossed my mind. Scientists don’t typically run for office. We work together to solve problems using data and logic—attributes that aren’t always associated with politics.
My perspective changed, however, in the spring of 2022 when yet another school shooting, this time in Uvalde, Texas, took the lives of 19 children and two teachers, followed closely by the U.S. Supreme Court’s devastating decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, impacting the rights of half the population. Standing at a courthouse vigil for the victims of mass shootings, I became determined to fight for safer communities, reproductive rights and a better life for all Illinois families. Running for office also would give me a platform to support my passion to fight for real climate change solutions, ones that would ensure a healthy planet for my grandchildren and the generations that follow.
Today, I humbly share that while we did not achieve the outcome we’d hoped for, our movement is far from over. Though I will not serve as your representative for Illinois’ 65th District this term, I am incredibly proud of the progress we made and the message we delivered. We got Rep. Ugaste’s attention, and he should rest-assured that we will continue to push him on issues that matter most to Illinois families.
The power of community
This campaign was a testament to the power of community. Together, we knocked on nearly 20,000 doors, made thousands of phone calls, and sent voters handwritten postcards. We built connections with our neighbors and found common ground.
Our activism should and must continue through calls and letters to Rep. Ugaste, our participation in the legislative process and continued outreach to our neighbors.
There’s more to be done
Never underestimate the power of people who care.
Although this campaign is over, there’s so much more to be done. I hope that we can gather all our energy and passion to work to strengthen our communities, to protect our environment and to building a world that is safe for all our children. Let’s continue focus our time and positive energy together.
