Amada Márquez Simula is running for the Minnesota House of Representatives District 39B
Informed. Fearless. Creative. Leadership.
As the Mayor of Columbia Heights, I co-govern with my colleagues in state and federal offices. Together, we have made great progress for the community during my three terms in office. In that same spirit, I pledge to collaborate with the leadership of all the cities as your Representative in Minnesota House District 39B.
Healthcare That Works for Everyone
Because no one should go bankrupt just to stay alive.
Every person in Columbia Heights, New Brighton, and St. Anthony deserves healthcare they can access and afford. I’ll fight for universal healthcare, stronger public health funding, and real movement toward a single-payer system. Healthcare is a human right—not a luxury.
Fully Funded Schools, Fully Supported Students
Because every child deserves a great education—no exceptions.
Our students deserve safe classrooms, supported teachers, and full funding for public education. I’ll work to expand mental health resources, stabilize school budgets, and ensure our kids—across all three cities—have what they need to thrive.
Housing People Can Actually Afford
Because stability starts with having a place to call home.
I’ll fight for real solutions to the housing crisis: expanding affordability, supporting first-time homeowners, and protecting renters. I’ll also work to improve communication between landlords and tenants—because strong relationships make strong communities across Columbia Heights, New Brighton, and St. Anthony.
Clean Water, Climate Action, and Environmental Justice
Because our planet doesn’t have a backup plan.
From protecting the Mississippi River to expanding urban tree cover, I’ll champion bold, local action on climate and environmental justice. Clean air, clean water, and resilient infrastructure are non-negotiable for healthy communities—and future generations.
Equality Protected in Law
Because dignity and justice should be permanent—not partisan.
I’ll vote to pass the Equal Rights Amendment and fight for civil rights protections that ensure every Minnesotan—regardless of race, gender, or immigration status—is treated with respect and fairness. Equality shouldn’t depend on who’s in office.
Making a Difference
Protecting the Environment
Humans need pollinators. I’ve helped our community become a national leader in protecting this critical link in our food chain. We are recognized by the National Wildlife Federation for fulfilling the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge. I have also made No Mow May a recognized practice.
Community Grieving and Healing
Our society has deep problems with racism. Solutions will take generations. I recognize this injustice, I share the outrage, and I’m committed to long-term strategies. I have created a Rapid Response Team to ensure that everyone can assemble and demonstrate safely, if needed.
Listening and Leading by Example
Representation means constantly listening to our residents. I have established regular communication with various cultural communities within our community. I have also reestablished a Youth Commission in Columbia Heights.
Celebrating our Differences
One of the best features of our district is our diversity. I recognize our many cultures and communities through official proclamations and by attending celebrations and events.
The American Dream
Our district is one of the most diverse in Minnesota. Since taking office, I have helped two people become US citizens. This includes reuniting a family that was separated internationally. I saw opportunities to connect people with the resources they needed.
Reconciling Our Past
Many of us were raised on a single language and a single viewpoint of history without considering our immigrant and indigenous neighbors. I am proud to include a native land acknowledgement in official proceedings. I have also corrected the signage in a Columbia Heights park to include the correct spelling of its Sister City, Łomianki Poland.
Securing Our Future
Our community has been viewed as an old bedroom suburb, but we are actually building new spaces for both businesses and housing. I’m excited to continue moving forward with other large development projects in the area. Redevelopment of a smarter and safer Central Avenue will begin in 2028.