I am Sam. Long ago, I was born in Damascus, Syria—near the grave of a man known by many as John the Baptist, and just steps from the Al Amawey Mosque.

As a child, like many, I had two burning ambitions: to own a bicycle, and to read as many books as I could find. Once I got the bike, I rode it far and wide. On a good day, I would find myself in another county. Then, I turned to my books—of every type and variety I could find. It was during this curious period that I graduated high school with honors.

At just 18 years old, I yearned for something more. And so, I left Syria on a solo journey. My destination? The United States of America.

After touching down on this rich soil, I found my first job at a Greek restaurant—as a humble dishwasher. From there, my work ethic carried me forward. I moved up to short-order cook, and eventually became the head chef. Every day I woke up hungry in spirit. Along this humble beginning to my American journey, I learned from other hardworking, honest men and women the real value of perseverance and purpose.

Within three years, I joined the U.S. Marine Corps—eager to give back to the land that had so willingly given me opportunity. Later, I attended New York University, where I studied Political Science, Law, World Religions, and the Philosophy of Logic.

Over the 18 years that followed, I worked with various government agencies, gaining experience both domestically and abroad. This led to a lifelong commitment and career in dispute resolution—dedicated to setting aside differences in pursuit of peace. I became a trusted expert in conflict resolution, called upon by peaceseekers far and wide. By my own count, I’ve helped reach meaningful resolution in nearly 90% of the conflicts I was asked to intercede in.

Of all the days of my life—those that have gone and those still yet to come—there are three dates that hold special meaning to me: First, the Fourth of July, our Independence Day, a day that honors the freedoms I hold dearest. Next, June 14th, Flag Day, a symbol of the resilience of free societies everywhere. And finally, December 8, 2024—the day Syrian revolutionaries finally freed their country from a brutal regime. It was neither a military nor political victory. It was a moral one. The end of a regime responsible for the deaths of over 5 million people, and for the displacement of 15 million more who found themselves refugees.

For the last two years, friends and colleagues have urged me to run for office. At first, I hesitated. But their belief in my experience, moral compass, and commitment to American values—along with my own growing sense of duty—convinced me that I may yet have one more service to offer this beautiful country of mine.

For that reason, I have decided to give what remains of me back to the country that gave me a home, the freedom of speech, and the right to practice my religion.

I wish to serve the United States of America yet again. As it has shaped my life in profound ways, I too hope to shape its future—a better, brighter one for all of us, as Americans.