This piece is being published in coordination with Sister District, an organization working to build progressive power in state legislatures. Critical and life-altering policies, including abortion access, trans rights, voting rights, fair wages, and conditions for working people and families are increasingly coming from often overlooked state legislatures rather than Washington, DC. Our “Historic Firsts” series uplifts inspiring, historic firsts among recently elected state lawmakers, with a focus on women, people of color, young folks, LGBTQIA+ folks, and folks from nontraditional backgrounds.
As a young legislator, the motives that drive your decision to run for office consistently get put under a microscope, especially when compared to those who have spent decades in their political careers. On one hand, critics often view career politicians with cynicism, assuming their motives revolve around money and power. Meanwhile, inexperienced candidates face doubts about their ability to perform the job. This contrast underscores the challenges faced by young individuals entering politics, as their motivations and capabilities are frequently questioned.
For me, experience wasn’t the motivation for me to leap into politics, though—it was the deep-seated belief in the power of empathy and the unwavering conviction that every voice, regardless of age or background, deserves to be heard and respected in the corridors of power. It was the burning desire to bridge the gap between the aspirations of my community and the policies that shape our lives. My decision to enter politics at 23 was driven by the fundamental belief that genuine change comes not just from experience, but from an authentic connection with the struggles, dreams, and aspirations of the people I serve. As the youngest Latino and youngest Democrat in state history ever to serve as state representative, it was the profound understanding that our shared experiences, whether they involve unaffordable housing, gun violence, or environmental injustices, unite us and fuel the passion to advocate for a better, more inclusive tomorrow. Experience may be a factor, but the real driving force behind my political journey is the unyielding belief in the potential of collective action and the transformative impact it can have on our community’s future.
Moreover, I acknowledge the skepticism that often arises due to my age. Some may question my qualifications, doubting my ability to navigate the complexities of politics at a relatively young age. However, I firmly believe that innovation, fresh perspectives, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the younger generation are invaluable assets in today's ever-changing world. My age is not a hindrance but a unique advantage, allowing me to approach issues with a new lens, unburdened by traditional paradigms.
When I introduce myself to my constituents, I introduce myself as their neighbor. And as their neighbor, I have experienced firsthand the concerns and issues that matter most to them and our community. In my recent canvassing sessions, a few neighbors said that if the Northside of Chicago were grappling with the same challenges, like gun violence, and environmental racism the way the Southside does, these issues would have been solved already. They say it is normal for North Siders to receive better access to things like healthy food and transit compared to South Sider . In our supermajority Latino district, many believe that we are overlooked simply because we are Latinos. I empathize with their sentiments, and after a simple conversation, usually in Spanish, they express their appreciation for having a young person in public office who brings a fresh perspective and new ideas.
Most of my ideas are not new, though—Medicare for all, affordable housing, and freedom from gun violence for all have been part of the progressive movement for decades. Instead, what is new to them is someone like them, a neighbor, who shares their lived experiences and wants to act on those experiences. It is easy to do that in Illinois—I have the most Latino, and one of the most Democratic districts in the state, and with Democrats having a supermajority in both chambers of the General Assembly, we have raised the minimum wage, legalized recreational cannabis, invested in green jobs and infrastructure, eliminated cash bail, expanded healthcare access to the undocumented, banned assault weapons, and strengthened protections for reproductive health. I, for one, sponsored and helped pass the Temp Worker Fairness and Safety Act, which guarantees pay equity between temp workers and full-time employees after 90 days and expands legal protections for temp workers and day laborers from common labor violations.
Although I am proud of what we have done here in Illinois, anyone can advocate for these policies. Anyone can spew progressive talking points and make promises, but my constituents have heard these things before. They do not need a talking point; they need someone they can trust. I ran for office because I want my neighbors to be comfortable seeking government services. I ran because I want my neighbors’ voices to be heard when they advocate for worker protections, reproductive health, environmental safeguards, and more. I ran because I want them to be able to trust government officials. In essence, I ran to be their neighbor, and I remain committed to being just that.
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