A new candidate for the 97th District State Rep seat in 2028 has just announced!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Plainfield Resident and Social Work University Student Samantha Riley Cochran Announces Candidacy for Illinois State Representative, 97th District in 2028

PLAINFIELD, IL – Local resident and community advocate Samantha Riley Cochran has officially announced her candidacy for the Illinois State House of Representatives in the 97th District for the 2028 election cycle. (See official campaign announcement video here - facebook.com/share/r/1E2451GM1r/)

Running as a Democrat, Cochran aims to bring a fresh, community-centered perspective to Springfield, focusing on underrepresented voices and the needs of everyday Illinoisans.

Cochran, 20, is a 13 year resident of Plainfield. A graduate of Plainfield South High School (Class of 2024), she previously attended Charles Reed Elementary and Aux Sable Middle School. She is currently a sophomore at Aurora University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Criminal Justice.

"I believe you can’t truly be for the people until you know the people," Cochran stated during her announcement. "Too often, decisions are made without realizing how they impact everyday lives. I want to change that by creating seats at the table for underrepresented communities—especially our youth—because everyone deserves to feel like their voice is being heard."

Cochran’s platform emphasizes expanding opportunities and support for:

• Students and Families: Ensuring equitable access to resources and educational success.
• Educators: Strengthening the support system for those shaping the next generation.
• First Responders: Recognizing and bolstering the essential services that keep communities running daily.

While Cochran acknowledges she is not a "career politician," she views her studies in social work and her deep ties to the 97th District as a primary strength. She believes the future of Illinois should be shaped by the people living within its communities.

"Our future should be shaped by the people living in it," said Cochran. "I’m looking forward to taking this journey with the residents of the 97th District and earning their trust and support."

For more information about Samantha Riley Cochran’s campaign, please contact [Sean Cochran seanccochran@yahoo.com - 630-330-2229