Deisy Espana, 21, today declared her candidacy to represent District 9 in the State Assembly.
The seat, which represents Milwaukee’s southwest side, is open as current Representative Marisabel Cabrera was recently elected to the Milwaukee County Circuit Court.
In a press release, Espana said she hopes to become the youngest member of the Assembly, bringing representation for young people.
“Being raised on the South Side of Milwaukee by immigrant parents, I saw firsthand how marginalized communities have been deprived of having a seat at the table and having a voice in the policies that have affected and continue to affect them at a disproportionate rate, which is why as a member of Gen Z, a Latina, an organizer, and proud daughter of Mexican immigrants, I am excited to announce my candidacy for the 9th Assembly seat,” she said in a statement. “Now with new maps, we have an opportunity to completely change the way the legislature looks and deliver the wins that our communities deserve. As the 9th District’s representative I will fight for immigrant rights, to ensure we restore driver licenses for our undocumented community and continue to fight for in-state tuition and professional licenses for DACA recipients. I will push for the expansion of BadgerCare, the restoration of workers’ rights, strong public schools, and other policies that will serve and advance working class families.”
According to her LinkedIn profile, Espana has worked as a canvass lead for Voces de la Frontera and had internships with the Milwaukee County Clerk of Circuit Court and Froedtert Hospital.
Primary elections will be held in August and the general election on November 5.