Cheniqua Johnson announces candidacy

Cheniqua Johnson, lifelong Minnesotan, public servant, community leader, and proud first-generation homeowner in the Dayton’s Bluff neighborhood, hopes to continue serving Saint Paul residents as the next Ward 7 Councilmember.
Johnson brings her lifelong experiences as a Black and Native woman, as well as leadership experiences in government, philanthropy, and community processes, to help lead Saint Paul forward. An experienced political organizer and philanthropic leader, Johnson has spent her career advocating for what will be her top priorities as Councilmember on the East Side: safe and stable homes for all, climate action and sustainability, economic justice, comprehensive public safety, and strong city services. Over a third of Ward 7 residents are under the age of 35, and Ward 7 has the fastest-growing population of young people and families in Saint Paul. In Ward 7, the average family income is less than $75,000 a year. Over 60% of fellow neighbors are Black, Indigenous, Hmong, Somali, or Latinx
Johnson graduated from the University of Minnesota as the first person in her family to graduate from a four-year institution. Johnson has worked in constituent services and as policy aide to Congressman Keith Ellison, Hennepin County Commissioner Angela Conley, and U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Aviation. Johnson most recently organized with Saint Paul residents to support the campaign of incoming Ramsey County Commissioner, Rena Moran. At the same time, as the Minnesota DFL State Outreach and Inclusion Officer, she has worked with leaders across our state to re-elect Governor Tim Walz and Democrats up and down the ballot. She worked as a program officer at the Saint Paul and Minnesota Foundation, and also served on the Saint Paul Police Chief Selection Committee.
“My family has forever shaped the person I am and the values I hold now, and is why I dedicate my life to organizing, advocacy and public service. I am now running to continue serving our city as your next Ward 7 Councilmember, and I hope to earn your support,” she said. Learn more at www.cheniquajohnson.com