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Laura Murphy (D)

Age: 62

Education: Graduated from Illinois State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science

Job/professional background: Before running for state senate, I worked for 30 years in Social Services and Healthcare.

Elected office currently or previously held, and/or any other service as a volunteer, or in community, education, etc. settings: I’m currently the State Senator of the 28th District. I also serve as the Maine Township Democratic Committeeperson. Prior to running for state senate, I was the 3rd ward Alderman of Des Plaines.

How long have you lived in the district you wish to represent?: I’ve lived in this community for over 50 years. I was born and raised in Park Ridge. My husband and I raised our son in Des Plaines where we have resided for over 20 years.

Do you have any conflicts of interest, which could arise from holding this office? If so, how would you address those?: None. I would abstain if ever I had a conflict of interest. 

Do you have any financial or business interests within the boundaries of the district you seek to represent, or who may work in the district you seek to represent?: None.

Do you have any criminal convictions (other than a minor traffic violation)? Please explain the circumstances: None.

Who are personal heroes to you, or who has provided significant guidance, insight, or acted as an example for how to live your life? How and why?: Of course, my parents instilled my core values. Right from wrong, honesty is the best policy; if you want something you need to work for it and actions speak louder than words. People over politics. These are the key values I carry with me to Springfield.  

My personal heroes who I wish to emulate John F Kennedy; he was a statesman that recognized the importance that every person is valued and has something to contribute. As well as Eleanor Roosevelt and her recognition that women needed to be involved in politics but also they needed “to develop skin as tough as rhinoceros hide”.

What is something about yourself that might surprise people?: I’ve been involved in grassroots organizing and Democratic politics since I was a young adult. I had never envisioned that I would run for office.

Why should someone vote for you?: I have a proven history of being a common-sense public servant. I pass legislation that solves problems for my constituents and improves their lives. I reach across the aisle and seek opinions from all colleagues and have amended legislation based on this input. All my bills have received bipartisan support. I am a moderate common-sense legislator that believes I am here to serve constituents. I believe in making the government transparent and accountable. I emulate these qualities and I am honest and available to my constituents. I recognize that at times I have to make difficult decisions and that can’t make everyone happy; but I can keep them informed; that is the job of a leader. It is these qualities recognized by the new Senate President who elevated me to Deputy Majority Leader in 2020.

Voters should support me because I am in the best position to serve them and the communities in the 28th district.

Why are you running for this office?: I’m running for office because the 28th District needs a leader in Springfield that is going to fight for the values our communities hold. In the last six years in the Illinois senate, I have worked tirelessly to serve constituents and create an Illinois that works for everyone. There’s so much more work that needs to be done and I look forward to getting back to Springfield to get the job done!

What experience do you have, which prepares you to hold this office?: I have spent the last six years solving problems for my constituents in the Illinois State Senate. My working-class background and previous professional experience inform my views on government as an entity that should work toward the betterment of the people and reinforce my belief in the importance of education, public safety, and fighting corruption and waste in state government.

As I mentioned before, I was born and raised in this community. I have spent more than two decades as an active member of the Des Plaines community, including eight years as an alderman for the city’s 3rd Ward. 

The post Laura Murphy: State Senate Candidate – 28th District first appeared on Journal & Topics Media Group.

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October 9, 2022 at 04:12PM