Issues
A New Direction
Spokane is a community with a future and this coming decade promises to offer an exciting opportunity for us. The need for creative, energetic, and visionary leadership is more critical now than ever. Political service goes beyond words on a page or theoretical ideas—leadership begins and ends with putting people first and bringing common sense to the stage.
I will bring tireless energy and enthusiasm in making a measurable difference for Spokane’s future. This campaign is about building a solid foundation today, for our children to stand on tomorrow.
Education: Every student deserves the opportunity to be successful for the 21st Century job market. We need to fight a real problem with the hope of real results. The legislature should fund education first and fund the basics of education while preparing students for higher education or trade school opportunities.
Health Care: Health care has catapulted onto the national political stage, and we continue to search for innovative and long-term solutions in Washington. We can begin by evaluating the 51 mandates (add-on programs) Olympia requires in each insurance plan. These mandates increase the cost of insurance, resulting in increased premiums. Allowing a “Basic Health Plan” that is more affordable, will empower more businesses to provide benefits as well as making insurance more available to all economic classes. Every person and family in the sixth district deserves affordable health insurance.
Economy/Government Spending: It is time controlled spending and accountability is emphasized in the legislative budgeting process. The Senate Ways and Means projects a 2.4 billion dollar deficit next session. We need a voice that calls government to live within its means. Spokane cannot only be a great place to live, but it must also be an equally great place to work. This community needs a representative who fosters job growth and economic development.
Transportation: We need a positive and persistent voice in regards to bringing transportation dollars to our side of the state. Seventeen years ago, the state legislature passed a five cents gas tax to fund three projects. The two projects on the west side are approaching completion and the North/South corridor only has on-ramps. I plan on standing-up and fighting the long haul for fair distribution of tax dollars.
Crime: Our community demands that we approach crime with a common-sense vision and a collaborative effort. Prevention must be part of our strategic plan or our jails will serve as revolving doors. We must boldly tackle the evolving issue of meth and identity theft.
The best work in Spokane as yet to be done! Together, let’s bring a New Direction to Washington.
