Why I am running

I was born in Wichita, Kansas, and raised in the Arkansas River Valley. I’m a proud graduate of Mansfield High School and the University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College, and I am currently attending Georgetown University online. Since 2023, I’ve been living in Minneapolis. I may be a transplant, but that doesn’t mean Minnesota doesn’t matter to me—I’ve truly fallen in love with “Minnesota nice.”

As a child, I was placed in the care of the Division of Children and Family Services. My experience in foster care was a nightmare, and because of that, I am committed to improving the system for every child. This includes making the adoption process easier so children can find the loving homes they deserve, and reducing the chances of children being returned to unsafe environments. No matter the state, the system is broken for those inside it, and that must change.

Over the course of my life, I have experienced homelessness and hunger. I know what it feels like to struggle, and that’s why I believe I’m uniquely qualified to help those who are without. I’ve been the parent on the phone with the utility company, crying and begging them not to shut off the electricity.

I have stood in unemployment lines more than once. Because I’ve lived through that process firsthand, I understand where these systems fail—and what can be done to improve them.

Working with educators for several years, I’ve witnessed their struggles, listened to their concerns, and gained lifelong friends. This experience has given me insight into how to strengthen our education system. When teachers have the funding and resources they need, students benefit. I have also worked closely with special education teachers as a lead instructor. Even as a substitute, I saw firsthand how much support they need and gained valuable knowledge on how their jobs can be made easier.

Having worked in many different school districts as a substitute teacher, I’ve learned that there is no consistent statewide pay standard. According to ZipRecruiter, pay ranges from $13,659 to $37,893. There should be a reasonable minimum—substitute teachers do the same job and deserve fair compensation. I’m not suggesting lowering anyone’s pay, but raising the floor for those earning the least.

I’ve lived on minimum wage, and I understand why raising it is essential. But I also know that raising wages means little if we don’t address the rising cost of living. Without price caps on essential goods, it won’t matter whether the minimum wage is $15 or $100—people will still struggle.

I’ve also had the privilege of speaking with many law-enforcement officers across the state—sometimes while they were on duty, and sometimes simply because I chose to pick up their tab. From their own words and from what I’ve witnessed, I understand the stress and strain they face. These conversations have given me countless ideas for improving both their working conditions and their personal well-being. And I’ll add this: some police officers give surprisingly good advice when you’re going through your own personal hell.