I’m Mary Rada Walters, an attorney and proud Democrat running for County Board because everyone deserves to feel safe, supported, and able to thrive in the place they call home. That means delivering Proactive Public Safety through community-focused solutions, practicing Compassionate Leadership that listens, responds, and values every voice, and putting Affordability First so families aren’t priced out of our county.
For over a decade, I’ve worked as an attorney helping people navigate some of life’s toughest challenges, from securing Social Security benefits for individuals with disabilities to guiding families through personal bankruptcy, along with volunteering with the WINGS Project to provide support and resources for sex workers. In every role, I’ve stood up for those who need an advocate and worked to make their path forward easier.
I’m committed to transparent, fair, and practical leadership that strengthens our neighborhoods, ensures every resident has a voice, and manages our county resources responsibly. Born and raised in DuPage County, I now live in Lombard with my husband, our daughter, and our black cat, Steven. DuPage is my home, and I’m dedicated to making it safer, kinder, and more affordable for everyone who lives here.
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The most important issue facing DuPage is affordability. People are being priced out of communities they've lived in for years. Housing costs, childcare, healthcare, and necessities are stretching budgets thin, especially for seniors, people with disabilities, and working families.
My approach focuses on affordability, compassion, and smart planning. That means supporting attainable housing, protecting stability programs, and being fiscally responsible. When we invest early in things like housing stability and food security, we avoid far more costly crises down the line.
The County Board can’t solve affordability alone but it plays a critical role in shaping policies, partnerships, and budgets so DuPage works for everyone. My goal is to make sure people can afford not just to live here, but to build a stable life here.
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Compassionate leadership matters, especially at the local level. Right now, too many people feel ignored or left behind by higher levels of government. That makes local government more important than ever. Counties are often the last line of support when families are struggling, and leadership should reflect that responsibility.
I believe local government should care for its residents in real, practical ways. That starts with elected officials who show up, listen, and stay accountable to the people they serve. Government works best when leaders are connected to their communities and understand what residents are actually experiencing, not just what looks good on paper.
My goal is simple: solve problems early, treat people fairly and with compassion, and make government work better for everyone.
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Public safety starts with prevention. When communities invest in mental health care, substance-use treatment, and early intervention, fewer people reach crisis and everyone is safer.
I support a proactive approach that focuses on programs we know work. That includes funding mental health and crisis response services that help people before emergencies escalate and keep communities strong.
Public health also has a role in gun safety. I support responsible, evidence-based measures like secure firearm storage, education, and community partnerships that help prevent accidents and violence. Counties can lead by promoting safe storage, expanding access to safety resources, and supporting crisis intervention services.
My goal is to help create communities where families feel safe, kids are protected, and public safety is built through prevention, responsibility, and care.