We have got to include all the voices in our democracy. That's how we preserve democracy, that's how we build accountable government, that's how you … - Lina Hidalgo

I just felt this call to action, to give back and do something about what was happening, and I decided that the most effective way to give back and to make a difference would be by being in charge. That there was no reason why I shouldn't run. I know what needed to change, and I was going to do it.

Reaching across the aisle is important. I'll continue to offer to negotiate, but sometimes it's impossible to negotiate with a brick wall

We need different voices in government—not for the sake of different voices, but because it actually makes a difference in policy.