Over the comforting aroma of spicy stews and warm injera bread at a well-known Ethiopian restaurant on Chicago’s far north side, Mike Simmons, who is running for Congress in Illinois’ 9th District, spoke candidly about his journey from public housing to public service — and the values that continue to guide him.

The restaurant, a neighborhood landmark since the mid-1990s, has long been part of Simmons’ life. “It’s been here since I was a kid,” he said with a smile. “It’s an anchor in our community, and I still grab takeout from here all the time.”

That sense of community runs deep in Simmons’ story. Raised in public housing by a family that valued hard work and education, he credits his upbringing for shaping his empathy and dedication to fairness. “We weren’t wealthy,” he reflected, “but we were rich in the things that matter — family, love, and people who looked out for one another.”

His mother, who worked two full-time jobs to keep the family afloat, remains a powerful influence. “She taught me resilience,” he said. “Watching her balance everything — work, family, and service — that’s what grounded me.”

That grounding, Simmons explained, helps him understand the struggles of small business owners and working families trying to make ends meet. He points to neighborhood restaurants and mom-and-pop shops that serve as community lifelines but often operate under constant financial pressure. “They’re part of the heartbeat of our neighborhoods,” he said. “We need policies that keep them thriving.”

When the conversation turned to domestic violence prevention and community wellness, Simmons’ tone grew more serious. “Government has to prioritize it,” he said. “Domestic violence isn’t isolated to one community — it affects everyone, across race, income, and background. We need to fund the social services and treatment programs that help survivors rebuild their lives. It’s about creating a culture of wellness, where people can truly heal. My hope is for a world where domestic violence doesn’t even exist.

Simmons also spoke openly about his early struggles in college — a rare moment of vulnerability for a political figure. After a difficult first semester, he took time off to regroup and later returned stronger than ever. “That year off was one of the best things that ever happened to me,” he admitted. “It taught me humility, perseverance, and how to turn setbacks into strength.”

Now, as he campaigns for Congress, Simmons says those lessons continue to shape his leadership style. “I’ve always believed in leading with empathy,” he said. “You have to listen, you have to understand, and you have to show up for people — especially those who feel unseen.”

One thing he’s clear about: he’s not accepting donations from large corporations. “I don’t want them thinking they can buy influence,” he explained. “Corporate interests already have too much sway in government. When I vote or draft legislation, it will be in partnership with the people I represent — not with special interests.”

As lunch wound down, Simmons leaned back, smiling as the lively hum of the restaurant filled the air. “This is home,” he said simply. “This community made me who I am. And I want to make sure it continues to be a place where everyone — no matter their background — has the chance to thrive.”