As
I thought about announcing my candidacy for the Democratic nomination for State
Assembly District 48, I recalled my childhood in the west African nation of The
Gambia where, to help my nomadic parents, my days were spent tending livestock
in the bush.
Later,
they allowed me to attend a “western” school which required a six mile hike
each way. I learned to read, speak English and most importantly, that there was
an exciting and unknown world that I should explore.
As
a student and young community leader, I was active in the movement against the
nation’s governance and I soon knew that I had to leave my home and emigrate to
the US for a viable future.
Now,
twenty years later, through the help of many people, I am, by most measures, a
“success.” I am an IT Project Manager at American Family Insurance. My wife,
Fatou and I own a new house on the far East side. I am in my third term as a
member of the Madison Common Council. I have attained what many believe to be
the American Dream.
But,
I have not forgotten my own experience of great poverty. I know that many in
our community do not share my good fortune. They have unmet needs for housing,
health care and often, food. Many others are only a paycheck away from this
plight. These are big problems that require systemic solutions.
In
my second term, I was honored to be elected as the Council President. As the
Council President, I had the opportunity to work throughout the city. I worked
with elected officials, community leaders and business owners and learned more
about the strengths and needs of our community.
From
my work on the Council and in the community, I know there is important work
that should be addressed by the state. Unfortunately, much of the state
government is deadlocked and progress is at a standstill.
I
am running to create a Wisconsin that works for all people, not just a few. As
I did in my campaign for the Madison Common Council, I will bring together a
diverse group of individuals and communities and encourage all to share their
perspectives. I will listen to these conversations and reflect what I’ve
learned in my work as their representative. As a servant- leader I am confident
that together we can succeed and bring about the changes we aspire to.
In
my my conversations with community members, I have heard that these problems
are the areas of greatest concern:
Health
Care Access: I support Gov. Evers’ efforts to expand Medicaid for thousands who
have no health care. Bringing hundreds of millions of federal dollars into the
state will also create many jobs.
Education:
Schools funding should not rely on the regressive property tax. I support local
control of schools but will work to relieve the burden of taxation on
homeowners and renters. The state should keep its promise of two-thirds funding
of schools.
Building
a Strong Economy: Our economy is not working for everyone. Wages are stagnant
and family dairy farms are rapidly closing. We must make strategic investments
to ensure that all sectors within our communities are able to thrive.
Criminal
Justice Reform: It is time to reform our criminal justice system to
provide safer communities.. Wisconsin
trails much of the nation in prison and criminal justice reform.
Climate
Change: I strongly support Governor Evers’ commitment to providing 100 percent
carbon-free energy by 2050. Adopting greater use of renewables is an important
part of our economic growth and environmental health agenda.
Housing
: In the richest country on earth no person should be homeless or sleep in the
streets. The legislature’s refusal to enact bi-partisan measures to relieve
homelessness is shameful. I will fight for affordable housing, so no one sleeps
in the streets.
Women’s
Rights: We must secure the rights of women against sexual harassment and other
forms of discrimination. The legislature should fully fund the testing of rape
kits and other tools for investigation of sexual assault.
Support
Elderly Residents: Too many of our elderly residents are struggling with fixed
income and escalating health care costs and property taxes. These issues must
be addressed by the state government.
What
People Say About Samba Baldeh:
Bob
Schaefer: Ridgewood Neighborhood Association
“Ald.
Baldeh has been a strong advocate for our community on the important issues,
water quality, safeguarding our community from the F-35s and getting a new
library and community center. He’s a hard worker for the things that he
believes are right.”
Masood
Aktar, Entrepreneur and Founder, United Against Hate
“I
endorse Ald Baldeh because he is a compassionate and thoughtful leader who
listens to, engages with and advocates for all.”
David
Ahrens, former Alder, Madison Common Council:
“Ald
Baldeh’s election to Council President in his third year was unprecedented. It
was a clear indication of the trust and respect of his colleagues for his
abilities. Despite his success in the business and political worlds, Samba is
humble and mindful of the path that he has traveled. He is fully committed to
helping others who are less fortunate.”
For
More Information: Ald. Samba Baldeh/ text phone: 608-213-5947
Email:
amsenegambia@gmail.com
website:
www.samba4stateassembly.com
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Samba-for-State-Assembly