Mary Rada Walters, a Lombard attorney, is running as a Democrat for DuPage County Board District 2 in the Nov. 3 general election. She faces Republican Theresa McClear.

Asked why she is running, Walters said in our questionnaire: "I'm running because I believe local government should work for the people who live here. I've spent my career helping people through some of the hardest moments of their lives, and I've seen how much government services can matter when someone is struggling with housing, health care, disability, or financial security." She added: "I also see firsthand from working in the bankruptcy field how affordability is affecting DuPage families. People are working, but still struggling to afford housing, groceries, transportation and health care."

Walters won the Democratic primary on March 17 with 62.31 percent of the vote over Mahnoor Ahmad, according to The Ballot Brief.

Candidate information

Occupation and work history: "I'm an attorney and currently work in the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Trustee's Office in Lisle, where I review bankruptcy cases, debtor budgets, and repayment plans and help oversee the administration of Chapter 13 cases. I've spent almost a decade working in bankruptcy law, previously representing people who are overwhelmed by debt and helping them find a way forward. I've also previously represented people applying for Social Security Disability benefits, helping them navigate a complex system with dignity and respect."

Education: "BA Music, University of Louisville JD, UIC John Marshall Law School"

Family: "Husband, Daughter (8)"

Party: Democrat

Family in politics: "Yes, my father is Bob Rada, an Oakbrook Terrace Alderman in Ward 3," Walters said in our questionnaire.

Previous elected or appointed office: N/A

Endorsement: IUOE Local 150, according to BallotReady.

On the issues

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job? "My career as an attorney is probably the best evidence of how I would approach this job. I've represented people in bankruptcy and Social Security Disability, often when they are dealing with complicated systems and very difficult circumstances. I've had to understand the numbers, review financial records, manage limited resources and advocate for my clients while working with people who don't always agree with me." She continued: "I've also worked in the Chapter 13 Trustee's Office, where I see firsthand how financial decisions affect real people here in DuPage."

What are the critical differences between you and other candidates seeking this post? "I bring a combination of legal experience, advocacy, and firsthand experience with the financial pressures facing families in DuPage. … I know how important it is to have someone in your corner who will listen, ask questions, and stand up for you. I would bring that same approach to the County Board." Walters also said in the questionnaire: "I would bring a practical approach to the job: look at the numbers, ask tough questions, listen to residents, and make sure taxpayer dollars are being used responsibly while advocating for the services our community needs."

The best advice ever shared with me was: "'People may not remember everything you say, but they will remember how you made them feel.' That advice has stayed with me throughout my career," Walters said. "… I think that applies to government, too. People should be able to come to their local government and feel heard and respected."