This Week on the Trail: Community, Leadership, and the People Who Keep Illinois Moving

Event Recaps

Dec 6

Every week on this campaign reminds me of the same truth: when community shows up, Illinois moves forward. This past week, I had the opportunity to connect with leaders, parents, first responders, and the workers who keep our state running — and each conversation reinforced why this campaign matters so deeply.

When Moms Lead, Things Get Done

Last week, I had the chance to gather with an incredible group of Liberal Moms — women who are organizing, showing up, and refusing to sit quietly while decisions are made about our families without us.

As a mom, a first-generation American, and someone who has spent my career working with families, I know this to be true: representation matters. When women — especially moms — have a seat at the table, the priorities shift. We talk about affordability, schools, healthcare, housing stability, and dignity because those are the issues showing up at our kitchen tables every day.

I’m running for State Senate because families are doing everything right and still falling behind — and that’s not a failure of hard work, it’s a failure of policy. Moms understand that change doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when we organize, lead, and demand better.

When moms lead, communities are stronger — and things get done.

Standing with Our Firefighters

I was honored to be invited by the Arlington Heights Fire Department Local 3105 to join them at their holiday party. Our firefighters show up for our community every single day — often on our hardest days — and it was a privilege to spend time with those who serve with such dedication.

I will always stand with and support our firefighters, and I’ll proudly bring that support with me to Springfield.

Celebrating the Workers Who Build Illinois

This week, I also joined members of the General Assembly and Local Union 150 for their holiday gathering. It was a great opportunity to thank the men and women whose hard work quite literally builds and maintains our communities — from our roads and infrastructure to the projects that keep our neighborhoods strong.

I’m grateful for their commitment to Illinois and for the partnership it takes to get things done. I look forward to continuing that work together in the years ahead.