Leadership with Impact: My Commitment to Addressing Critical Systemic Issues with Accountability, Compassion, and Collaboration

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Public service isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about making the right decisions, in the right way, for the right reasons.

That’s been my approach throughout my career, and it’s what I’ll bring to Springfield as your next State Senator for Illinois’ 27th District.

One of the most meaningful leadership roles I’ve held is my appointment to the Cook County Child Death Review Committee—a role that demands sharp analysis, compassionate leadership, and unwavering accountability. It’s also a powerful example of the kind of governance we need more of at the state level: thoughtful, collaborative, and focused on long-term impact.


Tackling Complex Issues with Cross-Sector Collaboration

No challenge exists in isolation. And no solution should be built in a silo.

In my role on the Cook County Child Death Review Committee, I work alongside a multidisciplinary team—medical professionals, legal experts, social service leaders—to review difficult cases and identify the systemic failures that must be addressed to prevent future harm.

Through this work, I’ve learned how to:

  • Navigate deeply sensitive issues with compassion and precision

  • Build consensus among diverse stakeholders to create data-informed policy recommendations

  • Translate complex problems into actionable, people-first solutions

These are the same skills I’ll bring to the Illinois Senate—where decisions about healthcare, family services, public safety, and equity demand deep listening, strategic collaboration, and the courage to act.


Data-Driven Decisions with Real-World Impact

I don’t believe in reactive politics or short-term band-aids. I believe in getting to the root of problems—and solving them.

That’s how I’ve approached my work on the committee, and it’s how I’ll lead as State Senator:

  • I analyze policies critically—not just by the numbers, but through their human impact

  • I push for proactive solutions that prevent harm before it happens

  • I make space for community input, knowing that the people closest to a problem often have the best ideas for solving it

This is more than a leadership style—it’s a promise: to bring logic, empathy, and evidence-based thinking into every decision I make on behalf of District 27.


Advocating for Safety, Equity, and Public Trust

My work on the Child Death Review Committee has only deepened my belief in what good policy can do. When done right, it keeps people safe, communities strong, and futures intact.

As your State Senator, I will:

  • Champion public safety solutions rooted in prevention and care—not punishment

  • Advocate for systems that support vulnerable families, from healthcare to housing to education

  • Operate with full transparency and accountability, because trust is earned—and I intend to earn yours, every step of the way


What I’ll Bring to Springfield

The lessons I’ve learned in Cook County are the same ones I’ll take with me to the State Capitol:

  • Collaboration – Bringing together experts, communities, and government to build smarter policies.

  • Data-Driven Policy – Leading with research, real-world input, and long-term thinking.

  • Commitment to Safety & Equity – Fighting for solutions that protect and uplift all Illinois residents.

Our district deserves leadership that listens, leads, and delivers. I’m ready to serve—and I’m ready to fight for the systems our communities deserve.


Join Me in Building a Stronger Illinois

If you believe in accountable, compassionate, and community-driven leadership, I invite you to join this campaign.

Stay Connected – Follow my campaign updates and events.
Get Involved – Volunteer, share your ideas, and help spread the word.
Make Your Voice Heard – Vote and be a part of shaping Arlington Heights’ future.


Thank you for your support—I’m excited to serve you..

With gratitude,

Carina Santa Maria

Candidate for Illinois State Senate, District 27

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Leading with Purpose: Building Safer, More Supportive Communities Across Illinois