As millions face eviction, shut off utilities, and a pandemic without healthcare ... let’s talk about why financial drama shouldn’t disqualify someone from serving in public office.

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I’ve been broke more than once, & it wasn’t due to bad decisions. It was the result of limited options. I had debt because I had to support myself since 16 & I entered the workforce w/ zero savings or parental support + an entry level salary. 2/

I learned so much from those extended periods of brokeness. Splitting a Wendy’s value meal w/ a fellow broke co-worker, trying to look professional enough to promote w/ less than $25 in the bank, floating bills. All of that informs my politics & jacked my credit rating. 3/

When I was diagnosed w/ uterine fibroids, I was just getting out of a broke cycle. I was 27, great job, health insurance, some debt. Two years of treatment + 1 surgery w/ 3 day hospitalization took me out again. I entered my 30s starting over. That informs my politics. 4/

I could go on, but y’all get the theme. Life teaches us lessons that no textbook or lecture can. A good politician applies those lessons. I’m not saying folk who haven’t been broke can’t write good policy. I’m saying people who *have* been broke deserve the same opportunity. 5/

And in this moment where Mitch & Co are blocking relief for millions, the failure of politicians like Rep Clay to properly articulate what losing electric and water means to Missourians already living paycheck to paycheck is a far more glaring flaw than Cori having evictions. 6/

I’m a 47 yr old Black woman who has been a flat broke adult more than once. I also co-founded @reproaction, paid off my college debt, paid my autistic brother’s dental for 15 years, & I’m about to buy a house.

I’m qualified for office.

So is Cori Bush.

Fin.