Nadia Milleron

Nadia Milleron was born in Berkeley, California. She earned a high school diploma from Berkeley High School, a bachelor's degree from Smith College in 1986, and a law degree from the University of Iowa in 1994. Her career experience includes working as an attorney and small business owner.[1]

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Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased August 4, 2024

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Nadia Milleron—an independent mother, farmer, attorney, and advocate, and I am here to fight for you.

In 2019, my daughter was on a Boeing 737 MAX that tragically crashed in Ethiopia, killing everyone on board. I couldn’t accept Boeing’s and the FAA’s word that nothing was wrong. I went to Washington and helped pass the bipartisan Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act in 2020, ensuring proper safety standards for aircraft.

I then went to Illinois, where Boeing is based, to challenge a flawed state law that protected corporations over victims. I worked with legislators to ensure negligent companies could be held accountable.

Standing up for people has always been part of who I am. I began my career in law by helping children who faced neglect and abuse. For five years, I took cases from the bench, advocating for children in contested divorces, lack of support, or crime. I also represented patients at the state mental hospital in probate court, often as a pro bono volunteer, working with those who had been subjected to dehumanizing conditions and whose rights were violated.

I’ve never shied away from fighting for what’s right, and I want to continue doing so for everyday people like you.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Working families in Western Massachusetts deserve a true ally in Washington. Richard Neal was crucial in accepting China into the World Trade Organization, offshoring thousands of jobs from our District. I will support efforts to bring manufacturing back to the U.S., creating high-paying jobs and boosting our economy. I’ll work to lower the cost of living for families struggling with essentials like groceries, gas, and healthcare while increasing housing accessibility.

We must prioritize producing our medicine and food in our nation again. Pharmaceuticals made in unsafe overseas factories jeopardize public health. As a farmer, I’m dedicated to ensuring access to healthy, locally grown food.Western Massachusetts faces a severe shortage of doctors, forcing residents in the 1st District to wait four to six months for appointments, even for urgent issues. This crisis disproportionately affects our elderly and rural residents.

Richard Neal has contributed to this problem by voting to cap the number of Medicare-supported resident physicians in 1997. Despite his influence as the former Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, he has done little to address this issue.

I am dedicated to bringing more healthcare professionals to our district. I will support bipartisan legislation to increase medical residencies, and secure funding to relieve medical debt for students who practice here.Fentanyl is a significant crisis affecting our communities, contributing to over 20% of deaths in the 1st District. Unfortunately, countries like China exploit the “de minimis” trade loophole, allowing packages to be shipped to the U.S. with little or no inspection, which means fentanyl can be delivered directly to homes through UPS and FedEx.

I’ve seen how this epidemic has devastated families, and I know that our Congressman, Richard Neal, has not taken meaningful action to address it. I genuinely care about the people in our district and will work hard to enhance security measures to help prevent fentanyl imports. Together, we can strive to protect our communities and keep our young adults safe from this crisis.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m focused on advancing realistic legislation that will improve the daily lives of residents in our district. My priority is to lower costs, enhance access to quality food and healthcare, and ensure job stability for working families.

I understand that many families struggle to afford essentials, so I will advocate for policies that lower the cost of living and support local manufacturing to create stable jobs in our community.

I’m committed to ensuring access to healthy, locally grown food by championing legislation that supports domestic farmers. In healthcare, I’ll work to increase access to quality services and make care more affordable, focusing on mental health support.

Together, we can make a meaningful change.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I really enjoy listening to my uncle on The Ralph Nader Radio Hour. He always brings on such brilliant guests, and I've learned so much from their insightful discussions. It's incredible to hear different perspectives and dive into important topics that I may not have explored otherwise.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Caring for your constituents, persistence and drive. A genuine commitment to serving the people ensures that their needs are prioritized and their voices are heard. Persistence is essential for navigating challenges and staying focused on long-term goals, especially when facing obstacles or setbacks. Drive fuels the determination to push forward, create meaningful change, and continuously work to improve the lives of those in the community.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities for someone elected to office include identifying, supporting, and initiating legislation that directly addresses the needs and concerns of the district. This means understanding local issues and advocating for policies that improve the lives of constituents. Holding hearings and investigations is crucial for oversight and accountability, ensuring that government actions align with the public’s interest. Additionally, using the platform to provide leadership, promote solutions, and engage the community is key to driving positive change. Most importantly, elected officials must do the work—staying focused, accessible, and dedicated to serving the people.

What legacy would you like to leave?

That regular people need to be paid attention to, not just ignored and trampled.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event I remember is Watergate. I was born in 1964, so I was just a child when it unfolded in the early 1970s. I recall the intense media coverage and the sense of disbelief as the events unfolded.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

When I was really young I started off as a babysitter, and gardener, but my first true job was working in the Smith College dining hall.

What is your favorite book? Why?

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What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

I appreciate the size of the U.S. House of Representatives and the relationships that constituents can develop with their elected officials because of it. With 435 members, the House allows for a more personal connection between representatives and the people they serve. This close relationship helps ensure that the voices of everyday citizens are heard and considered in the legislative process. It fosters accountability, as representatives can engage directly with their constituents, listen to their concerns, and advocate for their needs.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

It's not about experience IN politics, it's about experience WITH politics.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Offshoring jobs to other nations, especially to countries like China, is one of the greatest threats facing the United States today. When American companies send manufacturing and production overseas, we lose not only good-paying jobs but also our economic independence. China, in particular, has benefited enormously from our industries moving there, taking advantage of lower labor costs while undermining American workers and communities. This shift has hollowed out our manufacturing base, weakened our local economies, and left many hardworking Americans without stable employment.

What’s even more concerning is how this reliance on foreign manufacturing has compromised our national security. We’ve become dependent on other countries for critical goods, including pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, which puts us at risk in times of crisis. We need to bring those jobs back home, invest in American workers, and rebuild our industries to ensure economic and national security. By supporting policies that encourage reshoring and strengthen American manufacturing, we can protect our future and secure good jobs for generations to come.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

I would side with two four year terms, similar to our presidency.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

We need term limits in Congress, and if elected, I will not serve more than six years. Long-term incumbency can lead to complacency and a disconnect from the needs of constituents. It’s crucial to foster a government that prioritizes public service over career politics.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Carolyn McCarthy.

Carolyn faced a personal tragedy that inspired her to become an advocate for change. After losing her husband in a tragic shooting, she turned her grief into action, championing gun control and working tirelessly to make our communities safer.

I also have a personal story that drives my commitment to public service. The loss of my daughter in a Boeing 737 MAX crash propelled me into advocacy, as I sought accountability and change in aviation safety. Both of us are driven by a desire to protect others and ensure that no family has to experience the pain we endured. Carolyn’s journey inspires me to fight for the values we believe in and to make a positive impact on the lives of those in our communities.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

One story that left me impacted me involved a man who had to take the wrong medicine that his doctor didn’t prescribe. He felt terrible as he struggled to prove to the insurance company that he needed the correct medication. Are the insurance companies the doctors now? It’s shocking that a patient has to endure such suffering just to get the care they need.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

I feel strongly that compromise is crucial for effective policymaking. In a divided society like ours, it’s essential to reach across the aisle and recognize and respect the variety of perspectives and interests that exist. Compromise allows us to find common ground and create solutions that benefit the most people. True leadership involves actively listening to all sides and being willing to collaborate, even with those with whom we may disagree. While standing firm on key principles is important, finding a middle path can lead to sustainable policies that truly serve our communities.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

The Forward Party, Jason Call from the Green Party, Springfield Mayoral Candidate Justin Hurst, and more.

What committees interest you?

I’m genuinely interested in the work of every committee because each one plays a role in shaping policies that impact our lives. However, the House Committee on Ways and Means and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure are where I feel I can make the most immediate impact.

Ways and Means is key for tax policy and economic fairness, and I want to make sure that the policies coming out of Washington support working families, not just the wealthy. The Transportation Committee is crucial for improving infrastructure, which is essential for job creation, public safety, and connecting our communities.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I strongly believe that financial transparency and government accountability are non-negotiable principles in public service. As elected officials, we have a responsibility to be completely open about how public funds are allocated and spent. The people deserve to know where their hard-earned tax dollars are going, and we must ensure that those dollars are being used to improve the lives of our constituents, not to line the pockets of special interests.

Accountability is equally important. Leaders must be held responsible for their decisions, and that means having systems in place to ensure honesty and integrity at every level of government. I’m committed to exposing corruption, ensuring fairness, and making sure that our government works for the people—not for wealthy corporations or lobbyists. This is how we build trust and create a government that truly serves its citizens.

Campaign website

Milleron’s campaign website stated the following:

An Independent Mother Who Will Fight for You

Five years ago, I lost my daughter, Samya, when a Boeing 737 MAX crashed in Ethiopia, killing all on board. When it became clear Boeing knew this crash would happen yet continued to let the faulty plane fly, I got involved to hold them accountable and help prevent a 3rd crash. I helped pass the national bi-partisan Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act in December 2020, then went to Boeing’s home in Illinois and helped overthrow a state law that allowed negligent and reckless corporations to literally get away with murder.

This experience in politics was eye opening for me. I knew that many politicians are bought and paid for by special interests and big corporations, ignoring the will of the people and neglecting the needs of everyday people who are struggling. But I didn’t realize the terrible personal cost that corruption can have for each of us and that motivated me to stand up now for our residents.

One of the worst culprits is our Congressman, Richard Neal.

He’s a career politician who has enriched himself over the past half century in politics, making millions of dollars off taxpayers. He’s taken the most money from big corporations and special interests of any member of the House of Representatives, then does their bidding in Washington. He refuses to meet with constituents and hasn’t held a town hall in the district since 2018. It’s no wonder people call him “Slippery Neal” when I’m talking to voters throughout the district.

That’s why I’m running for Congress in the 1st Congressional District as an Independent candidate. I’m not a politician—I’m a mother, farmer, and attorney with a proven track record fighting against big corporations and powerful special interests and winning. I will fight for you.

As a true independent, I won’t be beholden to party bosses or partisan politics.

The two-party system is broken, and the American people are rightfully frustrated with politicians on both sides of the aisle for playing political games while everyday people suffer. As an Independent, I can focus on representing the people. I will be uniquely positioned to work with both parties to get things done.

As your congresswoman, I will set a standard for public service. Seeing Richard Neal lose his way after being a career politician for 46 years, I will champion term limits for politicians and lead by example, serving no more than 6 years if elected. I will work full time for my constituents. I will make my calendar public so you know exactly what I am doing and who I am meeting. I will even have an app available for 1st District residents so you can interact with me and my office to get any assistance or information you need.

I will push for manufacturing to return to our 1st District and lower the cost-of-living for working families. Richard Neal supported trade agreements that shipped manufacturing jobs overseas, like supporting China in the World Trade Organization (WTO), costing our district thousands of jobs. Neal has protected greedy corporations from being held accountable while taking the most contributions from big corporations and special interests of any member of the House of Representatives.

It’s time the working families of Western Massachusetts had an ally in Washington. I will support the many efforts to reshore manufacturing back to the United States, creating high-paying jobs in our district and growing our economy. I will work to lower the cost-of-living for working families who are struggling to afford necessities like groceries, gas, and health care. And I will work to increase housing accessibility and affordability.

I will insist that we manufacture our medicine and grow our food in America again. Pharmaceutical companies are manufacturing more drugs overseas in unsafe factories in China and India, leading to generic drugs that are polluted with dangerous substances making Americans sick while costing good American jobs. For the health, safety, and security of our nation, we must make our medicine in our country again.

We must also grow and produce our own food again. In the last two years, America has fallen into food insecurity and become a net food importer. As a farmer, I am a leader in ensuring residents have access to healthy, locally grown food.

And I will join efforts to bring more doctors to our community and make health care affordable. There is a severe shortage of doctors in Western Massachusetts, with 1st District residents having to wait four to six months to get an appointment, even for urgent issues. Richard Neal helped create this crisis, voting to limit the supply of doctors available to provide Americans the high-quality care they deserve.

I will bring more doctors and other healthcare and mental health professionals to the district to solve the health care shortage crisis. In addition, with working families struggling to afford health care as costs for insurance and medical care skyrocket, I will fight to make health care accessible to all.

I care about you and your family, and I will fight for you. If elected, I would be one of the first independent candidates ever elected to Congress—and the first woman to do so. Let’s make history together and bring meaningful change to Washington, DC.

Return Manufacturing Back to the 1st District and Lower the Cost-of-Living for Working Families

Working families throughout Western Massachusetts are struggling and they have their Congressman to blame. In 36 years in Congress, Richard Neal has supported trade agreements that have shipped manufacturing jobs overseas, like supporting China in the World Trade Organization (WTO), costing our district thousands of jobs and forcing local manufacturing plants to shut down. As a result, China ramped up extraordinary production, take out huge swaths of American manufacturing.

Manufacture Our Medicine and Grow Our Food in America Again

For the health, safety, and security of our nation, we must make our medicine in our country again. Pharmaceutical companies are manufacturing more drugs overseas in unsafe factories in China and India, leading to generic drugs that are polluted with dangerous substances making Americans sick while costing good American jobs.

Bring More Doctors to Our Community and Make Health Care Affordable

There is a severe shortage of doctors in Western Massachusetts, with 1st District residents having to wait four to six months to get an appointment, even for urgent issues, then even longer to receive the medical care they need. This is a crisis, especially for our elderly and rural residents.[2]

—Nadia Milleron’s campaign website (2024)[3]