“You've got to be one that, wherever you are, like a flower, you've got to blossom where you're planted. You cannot eliminate darkness. You cannot banish it by cursing darkness. The only way to get rid of darkness is light and to be the light yourself.”

American politician and author, 2010s–2020s A former New Jersey senator and 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, Booker is known for his advocacy on criminal justice reform and his work as a public servant. His writing and speeches blend progressive policy with personal narratives of resilience and hope.