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For 15 years as a mental health counselor, I have sat with people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. I have learned that before people can move forward, they need to feel seen, respected, and truly heard. That lesson extends far beyond the counseling room. Public service should begin the same way: by listening, understanding, and earning the trust of the people we serve.

Every family and community is different. There is no one size fits all solution to the challenges people face. That is one of the reasons I decided to run for the Wisconsin State Assembly.

Throughout this campaign, I have knocked on doors, sat down with neighbors, and listened to their concerns. I have heard about the rising cost of living, education, housing, property taxes, childcare, jobs, and the future of our communities. Those conversations have reinforced what I have learned throughout my career: before we can solve a problem, we have to understand the people living with it.

I may not have all the answers, but I know how to find a path forward. My approach is person-centered, culturally responsive, evidence-based, solution-focused, and informed by data. I listen to different perspectives, look at the facts, understand the root of a problem, and work toward practical solutions.

I’m Simran Arora, and I’m running for Wisconsin State Assembly District 80. As your representative, I will listen before I lead, ask questions before making assumptions, and work with our communities to find solutions that make a meaningful difference.

Because leadership isn’t about having every answer. It’s about listening to the people you represent, understanding their challenges, and working together to find a way forward.

Simran Arora is a Republican candidate for the 80th Assembly District.