Amáda Márquez Simula Announces Bid for Minnesota House of Representatives
For Immediate Release
Columbia Heights, MN — Amáda Márquez Simula, Mayor of Columbia Heights and longtime community leader, announced today that she is running for the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Márquez Simula, who has dedicated more than 30 years to community service in Columbia Heights and the greater Twin Cities area, said that running for the House is the next step in her commitment to building safe, connected, and thriving communities.
“As Mayor, I’ve seen firsthand what happens when state and local governments work hand-in-hand—and what happens when they don’t,” said Márquez Simula. “Minnesotans deserve a representative who listens deeply, stands up for working families, protects our environment, and ensures that every community has the resources it needs to thrive. I’m running because every person deserves to feel safe, valued, and included.”
As Mayor of Columbia Heights, Márquez Simula has built a reputation as an energetic, inclusive, and solutions-focused leader. She has prioritized making sure city staff have the proper training, equipment, and support needed to provide the highest level of service to the community—while also taking care of their own well-being. Under her leadership, Columbia Heights added two full-time social workers and a therapy dog, expanding mental health support for residents and city employees alike.
She has strengthened communication between residents and city departments and prioritized responsible, community-centered economic development. Her leadership includes expanding sustainability and environmental stewardship efforts; supporting small businesses; and championing culturally inclusive events such as the Columbia Heights Pride Festival, the Bilingual Monarch Festival, and Earth Day cleanups. She is a strong advocate for local businesses—supporting entrepreneurs, visiting small shops throughout the district, and collaborating with chambers of commerce and service organizations to help businesses grow and thrive.
She emphasized that her leadership is rooted in dignity and inclusion:
“I believe every person deserves to be treated with respect and care—no matter their heritage, background, or appearance. Minnesota must remain a place where all families feel safe, seen, and supported.”
Márquez Simula also brings a strong background in the school district, having managed Adult Enrichment and Senior Programs for Columbia Heights Public Schools, served on the District Finance Committee, and contributed to the Community Education Advisory Council. Her experience in education has shaped her commitment to supporting youth, families, educators, and lifelong learners across Minnesota.
“My lived experiences—as a mother, a leader, and someone who has worked for years inside schools, nonprofits, and local government—guide everything I do,” Márquez Simula said. “Minnesota needs leaders who understand the realities families face and who will roll up their sleeves to get things done. I’m ready to bring that perspective and that heart to the Minnesota House.”
Márquez Simula noted that state decisions have a direct impact on families in the district.
“As Mayor, I see up close how state policy shapes people’s everyday lives. I am deeply grateful for Representative Feist’s work, leadership, partnership, and friendship. Her commitment to our district has made a meaningful difference, and I want to continue advocating for Columbia Heights, New Brighton, and St. Anthony—for safe and affordable housing, quality education, accessible healthcare, and communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
She continued:
“I already have strong relationships with leaders, organizers, and community members in New Brighton and St. Anthony. I look forward to deepening those connections—meeting more neighbors, collaborating with local businesses, and building partnerships that strengthen our entire district.”
Márquez Simula lives in the South Kordiak neighborhood with her husband, Frost. She is an artist, an avid gardener and pollinator advocate, and the mother of four adult children.
“To me, leadership means showing up—for your neighbors, for your community, and for your values,” she said. “I am ready to show up for Minnesota.”
To learn more about Amáda, visit voteamada.com.