My name is Riley Rodriquez, and I am running for State Senator of District 28. My connection to this area runs deep—from Menard to Seymour, my family has lived on and worked this land, instilling in me a sense of duty to the place they have called home.

I’ve spent the bulk of my upbringing in the small communities that make up our district. It is those communities, and the people in them, that I am fighting for, the hardworking residents I grew up with—who have been left behind in favor of quid pro quo politics and D.C. pressure.

The door to opportunity has been shut to rural communities, and the table set for billionaires and corporations.

It’s time we take that door off at the hinges and claim our seat at the table.