WHERE I COME FROM
I’m the grandson of immigrants, career public servant, and proud lifelong Chicagoan.
My grandparents stressed the importance of hard work, education, and being kind – values I have taken to heart by dedicating my career to making the American dream possible for others by:
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Working on hundreds of pieces of legislation as well as compassionate and balanced budgets on staff for the Illinois House of Representatives.
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Fighting for years as the lead staffer on historic statewide education funding reform to direct state resources to underserved school districts.
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Earning a law degree from Chicago-Kent and Master of Science in Energy Policy & Climate Change from Johns Hopkins to be the best advocate possible.
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Helping pass four significant laws to strengthen special education protections, prevent sexual abuse, and establish digital privacy rights during my first year of law school.
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Turning down several lucrative lobbying offers to keep working in public service.
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Implementing Illinois’ climate goals and energy affordability initiatives at the Illinois Commerce Commission.
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Helping keep elections running during the initial COVID-19 outbreak, with the City of Chicago.
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Successfully advocating for the first-ever Environmental Justice Section and water rights declaration at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District.
The very first bill I watched pass when I was a wide-eyed intern was marriage equality in the Fall of 2013. When the legislation passed, the room was electric as everyone embraced and shed tears of joy. It was one of the most powerful moments I’ve ever witnessed, and it serves as a reminder of the good government can do when it's at its best.
When I’m not out talking to neighbors and working to improve your quality of life, I enjoy trying new local restaurants, reading, playing kickball at Winnemac Park, and supporting Chicago sports. I live with my wife and two cats, who are all graciously supporting my campaign despite the sacrifices it means.
WHAT I BRING
Frankly, these are hard times.
The federal government has lost its mind and the City's budget is severely strained. ICE is terrorizing our neighborhoods, housing and utility costs are skyrocketing, people are resorting to GoFundMe to pay for healthcare, the climate crisis is accelerating, and our democracy is under threat. The state legislature is more important than ever and needs to step up in so many ways to meet the moment and ensure Chicago is welcoming and affordable for all.
The news can be overwhelming but I'm not ready to give up, not by a longshot.
I’m running for State Representative because I’ll be an effective legislator that goes beyond strongly worded tweets to actually deliver solutions. I have a demonstrated track record of achieving systemic reform with multiple levels of government, have organized to build winning coalitions, and feel compelled to do everything I can to help.
Results matter, and I bring a unique combination of legislative advocacy, education, and budgetary experience that will be an asset in helping navigate tumultuous times.
I look forward to showing you why I’m the right person to get the job done.