In this episode of *Here I Stand*, Pastor James Pittman and Calvin Lindstrom welcome Stephanie Trussell, a passionate candidate for Illinois State District 42. With a background as a former Republican lieutenant governor candidate and a deep commitment to her community, Stephanie shares her journey and her vision for the future of Illinois.

A Journey Rooted in Faith and Community
Stephanie's story is one of resilience. Raised in Chicago as a single mother, she found unexpected success after winning a radio contest that led her to a prominent role in broadcasting. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of community and the support she received in her own life:

> "I was living in like a lifetime movie... so sad that it went away. But then Jeannie Ives tapped me and said, 'Would you like to work for me?'"  

Her experiences led her to a new calling — running for office to make a difference in her community.

## Addressing Education and Family Values
A central theme in Stephanie's campaign is the need for better education in Illinois. She expresses her frustration with the state of public schools:

> "We're spending thirty-three thousand dollars per kid and those kids can't read."

She advocates for alternatives to government schools, highlighting the sacrifices parents make for their children's education. In her view, the focus should be on ensuring that every child receives a quality education aligned with family values.

## The Challenge of Changing Illinois
As she discusses her candidacy, Stephanie points out the challenges facing Illinois, particularly under current leadership:

> "If you vote for me, I'm gonna go down to Springfield and lobby against everything that J.B. Pritzker is doing."  

She believes the state needs to reverse the trends that have driven families and businesses away, advocating for policies that support hardworking families and small business owners.

## A Call to Action
Stephanie’s journey and her commitment to restoring Illinois resonate deeply with her constituents. She emphasizes the importance of community participation in governance and encourages listeners to engage with her campaign:

> "I just encourage people to put your kids first in education."  

As the election approaches, her call for community involvement is more vital than ever.