In this conversation, Ridge Knapp joins Paige to talk about his campaign for Illinois’s 13th State House District and why this moment demands new voices in state politics. Drawing on his background in organizing, policy, and Democratic leadership, Ridge explains how his generation experiences affordability, housing, and economic insecurity differently — and why those perspectives are missing in Springfield.

He discusses the growing homelessness crisis, the strain rising costs place on working families, and the local impact of data centers on communities. Ridge also makes the case for stronger data privacy protections and proactive AI regulation at the state level, arguing that Illinois has more power than people think. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes coalition-building, community engagement, and legislating with lived experience. This episode explores what it looks like to run not just against the status quo, but with a clear vision for how state government can better serve the people it represents.

ILLINOIS: FIND YOUR DAY OF VOTING LOCATION

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