Springfield’s Scrambling—We’re Organizing
As we paused to honor Memorial Day this weekend, I took time to reflect on the people who’ve given everything in service to our country. Their sacrifice reminds us that public service is about duty and commitment.
That’s a lesson Springfield could use right now.
The legislative session is wrapping up, and as usual, some folks are scrambling to pass bills like it’s a college group project and they haven’t done the reading all semester.
Our district deserves better than last-minute political maneuvers. We deserve a fighter who puts in the work every day, all year long—not just during crunch time.
Community Power in Action
Across Chicago, rents are ballooning. Too many of us are paying more year after year, or being pushed out of the communities we love.
We need a champion in Springfield to fight a lot harder. We need to build more housing—period. That includes affordable units, missing middle housing, and smart transit-oriented development that keeps our neighborhoods vibrant and equitable.
Last week, I joined the South Lakeview Neighbors meeting to support a new housing development at 1215–1225 W Belmont. Once fully approved by City Council, this project will bring a five-story, 40-unit apartment building to the neighborhood and replace a vacant theater. The room was packed, debate did get testy at times, and neighbors made their voices heard. And in the end, the project was approved by a slim but meaningful vote: 23–19. That margin shows just how close the fight for housing can be—and how important it is to show up, speak up, and organize.
We Can—and Must—Do Better in Springfield
This final week of session is just more proof that we need legislators who lead, not wait around for others to step up. I’m running to bring that leadership to the State Senate—to fight for affordable housing, safer streets, sustainable transit, and real transparency.
And importantly, to make sure we’re working year-round, not just appearing for photo ops when politically convenient.
So join us! We’re building a movement that is about listening to each other and getting to work—and chances to volunteer are popping up as we head into June. Jump in, and let’s get to work!