If I Were to Run for Political Office…
On Juneteenth 2026, I officially joined the ranks as a working mom. The only thing was, I wasn’t working; at least not under contract. Thankfully, I’m in a position where I work as a nine-month employee. My contract ended in May with the next one beginning in August, so I had the pleasure of spending my first trimester “enjoying” pregnancy (my symptoms were awful but that is another story).
While I am beyond grateful that I was not expected to work full-time during my first trimester, it was never lost on me that I didn’t know how I would have made it through if I was working while adjusting to my pregnancy.
Here What My Platform would be…
Being pregnant is hard and it takes a lot out of you. Some studies have shown that a pregnant person’s metabolism is working 2.2 times faster than their basal metabolic rate, or the energy expenditure used during rest, which is just under what it takes to run a marathon. And mind you, the average marathon is completed in four to ten hours depending on fitness level and if you choose to run or walk. Compare that to the average 40-week pregnancy which is 6720 consecutive hours.
In my first trimester, I spent most of my summer actively managing the profound exhaustion, nausea, reflux, and anxieties of being a first time parent, especially following a miscarriage. While I recognize that the structure of a routine schedule (like full-time employment) can be a positive protective force in a pregnant person’s life, it seems unfair for this to be a necessity, dare I say a mandatory obligation, to ensure the person is able to meet their basic needs. That’s why I have now adopted the belief that people should not have to work while pregnant unless they absolutely want to.
Early Maternity Leave for All!
I am significantly blessed that based on the timing of my pregnancy and my chosen career, I will only have to work during my second trimester. However, this is far from the norm. Every pregnant person who is maintaining a full life schedule, whether it’s with work, caretaking, or parenting children you already have, you are the real superheroes and this one is for you! If I were ever to run for public office (which I deeply hope that I do not), below is the first draft of the speech I would give announcing my political platform (credit to my “personalized” speech writer, ChatGPT, ha!).
My Political Campaign Announcement
“My fellow Americans, we need to rethink what it means to support working families. Pregnancy is not a nine-month inconvenience that people are expected to manage quietly while continuing business as usual. From the moment a pregnancy is confirmed, a person’s body is doing extraordinary work, and our policies should recognize that reality. I believe maternity leave should begin at pregnancy confirmation, giving expectant parents the time, flexibility, and financial security they need to prioritize their health and prepare for the arrival of their child.
This is not about asking pregnant people to choose between a career and a family. It is about building a society where they do not have to. When we support individuals from the very beginning of pregnancy, we invest in healthier families, stronger communities, and a workforce that knows its well-being matters. As your next elected official, I will fight for policies that put families first; not just when the baby arrives, but from the very beginning of the journey to parenthood.”
Final Thoughts
To our little Baby Walker, Mommy and Daddy absolutely love you and can not wait to meet you! We are grateful that I have had this opportunity to reiterate the importance of rest.
FAQ
Where can I read more about the sources you used to write this blog?
Thank you for your interest! Here are the top three resources I used when citing information about metabolism rates and marathons.
Study of marathon runners reveals a ‘hard limit' on human endurance
How Long Does It Take to Run a Marathon? All The Factors That Impact Finish Time
Are you really considering running for public office?
Absolutely not! I thought this would be a fun spin on my first blog post after taking some much-needed time off.
I love your stance and your sense of humor! How can I work with you more intentionally?
Thank you so much! To work with me individually, schedule a Pick My Brain session, or if I can support your agency or organization, go to my contact page to book your free consultation today!
