Am I Giving Up My Seat as Trustee? Here’s the Truth.

Let’s address the question I know many are asking:

“Didn’t you just get elected Trustee? Are you stepping down?”

The answer is simple: No. I’m not stepping down—and I’m not stepping away.

I ran for Village Trustee to serve my community, and that commitment hasn’t changed. I’m here to finish the job. I know I’m still new in this role—and I take that seriously. Every meeting, every email, every conversation matters to me. When I step into something, I go all in. This is no different.

Even while I’m away on a long-planned family trip, I’m reading every board packet and tuning in remotely—because Arlington Heights deserves nothing less.

Now, I know not everyone agrees with my decision to run for State Senate. I’ve had tough, honest conversations with people from all sides—supporters, critics, longtime allies, and folks who don’t see eye to eye with me. Some are disappointed. Some are concerned about divided focus. And all of that is fair.

Let me be clear: this wasn’t a strategic move or a stepping stone. It was a response to urgency.

Across our communities, I’m seeing families struggle—immigrants doing everything right to maintain their status, yet still living in fear. Kids falling through the cracks in our mental health system. Seniors trying to afford housing. Working parents with no margin for error. And harmful federal policies are only making things worse.

I looked around and saw a gap. No one else was stepping up. So I did.

That’s how I was raised. That’s how I’ve always led. When something needs doing, I show up and do it.

Will everyone agree with how I’m doing it? No. But I didn’t get where I am by waiting for permission or playing it safe. I’ve built shelters, run a multi-million dollar nonprofit, and fought for people who’ve been ignored or written off. I’ve stood up to power and invited others in—even when it meant walking through fire.

This campaign isn’t about leaving a seat. It’s about expanding the table. It’s about bringing our shared values—what we fight for in Arlington Heights—to Springfield, and making sure every voice in our district is heard.

So if you’re wondering whether I still see you, still hear you, still represent you—the answer is yes. Loud and clear.

I’m not leaving.

I’m leveling up.

And I’m bringing my whole heart, grit, and unapologetic fire with me.

Let’s keep showing up for each other. That’s what I’ll continue to do—for Arlington Heights and for every community across the 27th District.