Informing and Empowering Voters with Trusted Political Knowledge

My name is Ethan Spaid, and I am a political science student at the College of DuPage with plans to transfer to DePaul University to continue my studies. My journey in politics did not begin in a classroom; it began the moment I was born into a world where identity, opportunity, and access are not distributed equally. Growing up as a queer individual in Wheaton, Illinois, came with its challenges. Navigating spaces where I often felt different taught me resilience at a young age. It also gave me perspective. While I sometimes felt overlooked or underestimated, I came to understand that many families face hardships far greater and more systemic than my own.

One of the most personal examples of this has been the burden of medical bills on my family. I have watched my sister and my dad struggle under the weight of healthcare costs that no family should have to shoulder alone. The stress of high medical bills is not just financial, it is emotional. It affects daily life, long-term planning, and a family’s sense of security. Seeing firsthand how expensive and complicated our healthcare system can be strengthened my belief that public policy is not abstract; it directly shapes whether families can thrive or simply survive.

These experiences motivated me to become involved and take on leadership roles wherever I could. In high school, I served as a leader in various activities and organizations, working to create inclusive environments and amplify student voices. Whether organizing initiatives, collaborating with peers, or representing student perspectives, I learned how to bring people together around shared goals. Now in college, I continue that commitment to leadership; engaging in campus organizations, academic discussions, and civic initiatives that promote political awareness and community involvement.

My passion for politics is rooted not in partisanship, but in people. I believe government should work to lower barriers, expand opportunity, and ensure that no family is crushed by medical debt or denied dignity because of who they are. My lived experiences, combined with my academic studies and leadership roles, have shaped my commitment to public service and civic engagement. I am determined to continue building the skills, knowledge, and empathy necessary to make meaningful change in my community and beyond.

Additionally, I have worked or volunteered for the following campaigns:

• Jackie Williamson for State Representative - IL-47
• Erica Bray-Parker for State Representative - IL-47
• Nabeela Syed for State Senate - IL-26
• Kamala Harris for President