By: Ashmar Mandou

His tenacious spirit, wealthy experience, and keen eye has Omar Aquino motivated to run for State Senate in an effort to represent his community. “I am here to represent the people of my community. We are in a crisis. This state is in dire need of help,” said Aquino. “Bruce Rauner, since his first day in office, has been stealing from the poor to give to the rich. Rauner and his allies are pitting the middle against the most vulnerable in our state. We need to elect progressive leaders who truly respect the people they represent. I am that person.”

Aquino grew up on the northwest side where attended Chicago Public Schools and spent his free time with the Chicago Park District. As an alumnus of Loyola University Chicago where Aquino earned a BA in Sociology and BS in Criminal Justice, his background propelled him towards a successful career working alongside legislators. Aquino has worked with Congressman Tammy Duckworth on unemployment, minimum wage, immigration, education, senior advocacy, economic development, and veteran issues as Outreach Coordinator, has served as Illinois House of Representatives Legislative Aide, served as Bilingual Case Manager for senior adults on Chicago west side, and is the Co-Founder of Empowerment Pipeline Education Program. “My experiences working alongside legislators have molded me to become a leader I know my community deserves,” said Aquino. “If elected as State Senator, I will fight Rauner and his allies. I will stand up for our neighborhood schools and the children who attend them. I will give a voice to those who don’t have one. I am here to serve the people of the second district.” If you would like to learn more about Aquino, visit his campaign site at www.aquinoforsenate.com.