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NAME: Mrs. Tracy Smodilla
POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE A CANDIDATE:
22nd Legislative District Senator
1. Why are you seeking this position?
Illinois is at the precipice of financial ruin. For too long, career politicians have engaged in quid pro quo politicking at the expense of the taxpayers. Our citizens have been held hostage by a one-party ruling class whose re-election ambitions are propped by self-interests. Not only has this left thousands of casualties in it’s wake, we are now on the third year of a fiscal can being kicked down the road and Illinois without a budget, crushing debt, over burdensome and mandates and lagging economic competitiveness. It has left our most vulnerable without life-affirming services, our infrastructure and education system at risk,and no money in the state coffers.
It is time for change and reform from outsiders who have selflessly and successfully served their communities on their own dimes. It is time for true servants who have worked in the private sector who understand fiscally sustainable policy and how to apply it in order to balance budgets, encourage growth and opportunity, and support the programs and policies that enhance and preserve a high quality of life in our communities. I am that servant that Illinois can rely upon.
2. What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
Some of my greatest life lessons came from being poor. As a child I learned the value of hard work, every nickel and how to optimize every resource available. That I lived in ten homes, was homeless, and went to 10 different schools before graduating high school shaped my compassion for those who struggle with poverty and it’s associated social issues.
I’ve enjoyed rich background in the private industries of banking, travel, communications and healthcare, and owning two businesses, has given me a robust skill set allowing for quality, collaborative deliberation and results-driven policy making. My service to Bartlett’s Economic Development Commission and board of director service for multiple other civic, professional and charitable organizations have further developed my ability to serve the people of Illinois.
3. What will be your greatest challenge if elected?
Getting every stakeholder to put their paddles in the water and keep moving. Illinois needs each and everyone of us to work together, to share in the sacrifice and success together and to see the collective effort through together. Together, we are better. And together, we get our beloved state moving forward.
Release for publication? YES
I will attend the forum? YES
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