Villanueva Sworn In, to Push for Bold Progressive Reforms in First Term

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Celina Villanueva, D-Chicago, issued the following statement after being sworn in as state representative of the 21st District for the 101st General Assembly:

“After four years of dysfunction under the Rauner administration, residents of our state emphatically rejected the failed status quo and are counting on fresh leadership and ideas to lift up Illinois.

“For too long, the needs of working families have been ignored to serve the interests of the ultra-wealthy, huge corporations and the politically connected—it’s time for a change. We have a unique opportunity to enact a bold progressive agenda that offers tax relief to the middle-class by making the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share, invests in our neighborhood schools, recognizes healthcare as a basic human right for all and ensures that any resident willing to put in an honest day’s work receives a living wage.

“We also must not lose sight of the hateful rhetoric and policies being pushed by President Trump in Washington. I will fight tirelessly to protect immigrant families from these unprecedented attacks and ensure equality and opportunity for every Illinois resident, regardless of what they look like, where they were born or what language they speak. 

“I am humbled and honored to serve the residents of the 21st District. Solving the challenges that lie ahead will require bold, progressive leadership, and I look forward to fighting for the changes that our families deserve.”