Lynn LaPlante, a concert violinist and member of the Chicago Federation of Musicians, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her campaign for Illinois State Representative. She highlighted her union background, community service through music, her decision to run for office and the importance of grassroots support in her campaign for the state legislature.
LaPlante began by discussing her deep connection to music and the union that supports her. Growing up in a musical family and beginning her violin journey at a young age, she credits the Chicago Federation of Musicians for providing steadfast support throughout her career and political endeavors. She shared heartfelt moments, such as performing her annual Christmas concert at the DuPage County Jail alongside Bishop Hicks. Experiences like these are as fulfilling as playing at world-renowned venues like Carnegie Hall, she said, and they are another way for her to show her dedication to serving the community.
Shifting focus to her political aspirations, LaPlante explained the circumstances that led to her state representative campaign. When a legislative seat opened due to the incumbent’s early departure, she made it clear that she would run regardless of how the interim appointment was handled, affirming her belief that voters—not committee appointees—should decide their representative. LaPlante also celebrated a significant milestone: earning the Illinois AFL-CIO endorsement, a rare achievement for a challenger running against a sitting legislator. She attributed this victory to solidarity within the labor movement and stressed the crucial need for authentic worker voices in government.
Addressing the realities of running for office, LaPlante discussed the fundraising efforts required for a true grassroots campaign, vowing not to accept money from corporate PACs. She detailed the diverse makeup of her district, the challenges posed by gerrymandering and her commitment to representing all constituents, particularly underrepresented communities. LaPlante outlined her focus on listening to union members, absorbing policy priorities and working as a bridge-builder among different labor organizations. With early voting in Illinois set to begin in February and the primary Election Day falling on St. Patrick’s Day, she urged fellow union members and supporters to join her campaign and help build a government that puts workers first.
For more from LaPlante, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast above.