Source: iHeart article: North Carolina Approves Congressional Map That Could Give GOP Extra Seat

When I was about six years old, in 2004, the country was focused on the first Presidential election after 9/11. I remember my kindergarten teacher holding a mock election in our class so we could experience democracy firsthand. Since then, it has been one of my deepest passions.

The leaders we choose, the policies they make, and the laws they pass are not just rules. They should show who we are and what we care about as a people. American history has many inspiring moments. Programs like Medicaid and SNAP are good examples. They show that as a nation, we decided helping people in need reflects our values.

I still believe Americans are naturally kind and helpful. But the laws coming out of our General Assembly in Raleigh do not always reflect that. We can do better. We can fund education for every child. We can make sure no one falls into debt when seeking medical care. We can provide food for everyone in our communities. We just need a government that truly works for the people.

I want to fight for the people in my community who have been left behind. I want to go to Raleigh and remind them that hard-working people are the backbone of this state. We built this state, and we deserve a government that serves us and our communities.