My Life Rooted in Illinois

I’m Pano Bartzis, and nearly my entire life has been lived right here in Illinois. I grew up in this state. I went to school here. I built my businesses here. And now, I’m raising my family here.

Like so many Illinoisans, I come from a single-parent, working-class family that taught me the value of hard work, faith, and treating people with respect. I attended both public and private schools, but instead of following the typical political path, I went to work.

I rolled up my sleeves and spent decades in the hospitality and entertainment industry—managing restaurants, nightclubs, entertainment venues, and community spaces. I’ve worked long hours, met payroll, created jobs, and fought to keep businesses alive during tough times.

I know what it’s like to sign both the front of a paycheck and the back of one.

Family, Faith, and Community

I’m a husband to my best friend and the love of my life, Sonia, and a father to Bianca, Lilly, & Kosta. Our roots are right here in Westchester, where we live, work, and raise our family.

My faith grounds me. I’m a God-fearing Christian and a practicing Catholic who believes in treating people fairly and standing up for what’s right—even when it’s not easy.

I’ve seen firsthand how strong communities thrive—when people step up, get involved, and care for one another.

Why I’m Running

Let’s be honest: Washington is broken.

For too long, career politicians have looked out for lobbyists, party elites, and corporate donors while everyday people—working families, small business owners, seniors, and recent graduates—get left behind.

I never imagined I’d run for U.S. Senate. But like many of you, I’ve reached a point where sitting on the sidelines isn’t an option anymore.

I’m running because I want my kids—and yours—to grow up in an Illinois and an America that actually works for them. An America that gives them the same opportunities generations before us had.

I’m running to bring common sense, accountability, and real-world problem-solving back to government.

I’m running to be your next Illinois Senator to stand up to the insiders—and fight for the people who actually live and work in this state.

This campaign isn’t funded by special interests or party machines. It’s powered by real people who are ready for something different.

If you’re tired of the same politicians making the same promises and delivering the same disappointments—then join me.

As a candidate for the Illinois Senate, I’m not the establishment.
I’m not the same.
And I’m not backing down.

Let’s Build This Together

Whether you can chip in a few dollars, volunteer, or simply spread the word—this campaign is about all of us.

Together, we can send a clear message: Illinois belongs to its people—not the insiders. Let’s make history—and let’s do it together.