VOTE411 Voter Guide

I am committed to addressing the unique needs of District 29. From improving local infrastructure to supporting our schools and increasing public safety, I will prioritize projects and initiatives that directly benefit our residents. My focus will be on ensuring that our community gets the resources and support it needs to thrive. Washington State is facing rising costs of living, and I am dedicated to tackling this issue head-on. By working to increase access to affordable housing, reduce utility costs, and promote economic opportunities, I will strive to make life more affordable for everyone in our district.

Budget, Public Safety and Housing.

I believe that addressing the affordability crisis is the most pressing issue facing our district and Washington State. I will advocate for policies that increase the availability of affordable housing. This includes supporting the development of low-income housing projects, incentivizing affordable housing development through tax credits, and working to streamline the permitting process to reduce construction costs. Ensuring that every resident has access to safe, affordable housing is essential to alleviating financial strain and fostering community stability. Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. I will advocate for policies that reduce the regulatory and financial burdens on small business owners. This includes providing access to small business grants and low-interest loans, simplifying tax regulations, and supporting initiatives that promote local entrepreneurship.

Our infrastructure is the backbone of our community, and many of our roads, bridges, and public facilities are in urgent need of repair and modernization. I will work to secure funding for critical maintenance and upgrades to ensure that these essential services remain safe and effective. Addressing these immediate needs will prevent more costly repairs in the future and improve quality of life for our residents. To maximize the impact of state funding, I will work to leverage federal grants and private investments. By pursuing additional funding sources, we can stretch our infrastructure dollars further and ensure that we are making the most of available resources. As we increase public funding for infrastructure, transparency and accountability will be crucial. I will push for clear reporting on how funds are allocated and spent, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. This will build trust with the public and ensure that resources are used effectively.

Addressing gun violence requires a broader approach that includes improving mental health services. I will advocate for increased funding for mental health resources and support systems to ensure that individuals in crisis receive the help they need before situations escalate to violence. Investing in community-based violence prevention programs can help address the root causes of gun violence. By supporting initiatives that focus on conflict resolution, youth engagement, and community empowerment, we can create safer environments and reduce violence. I support measures that ensure gun ownership is safe and responsible. This includes advocating for mandatory safety training and education for all gun owners. Ensuring that individuals understand how to handle and store firearms safely can help prevent accidents and misuse.

As a State Representative with a proven track record, I have consistently championed my district's needs, securing $200 million in appropriations and passing bills that address healthcare, housing, and economic development. My strong support for labor, especially during strikes, reflects my commitment to workers' rights.

Before office, my grassroots work focused on uplifting marginalized communities, and I ran in 2018 to continue that mission. I’ve worked to increase representation, including more Black legislators, and my voting record demonstrates a commitment to equity. I remain dedicated to confronting systemic disparities and creating a more inclusive, prosperous future for all.

Preserving Land for Farming, Housing, and Equitable Healthcare.

In the upcoming term, my top priority is improving the lives of working people in Washington State by addressing the lack of diversity in the agriculture and natural resources sectors. As a member of the Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee, I have worked to promote equity in farming and ranching by securing funds and advocating for more inclusive opportunities. I will continue pushing for alternative farming methods, such as fish, oyster, and chicken farming, to create new job opportunities for a broader, more diverse workforce. I am committed to procuring more funding for the Community Reinvestment Fund to support all of these efforts around farming and uplifting marginalized and underrepresented communities.

Increasing public funding for infrastructure would be a top priority for me over the next two years. Adequate transportation is crucial for people to participate fully in the workforce and access job opportunities. Additionally, investing in community centers strengthens neighborhoods by providing essential resources and services. Finally, businesses need support to stay afloat, and improving infrastructure can create the environment they need to thrive, promoting economic stability and growth.

To balance gun rights and gun violence, I support common-sense measures like universal background checks, safe storage laws, and red flag laws to keep firearms away from those who pose a risk. I also back investments in community violence intervention and mental health resources. In my legislative work, I've championed stronger gun laws, closed background check loopholes, and funded community programs promoting gun safety. My office collaborates with local governments to ensure effective implementation of these laws. Having seen the impact of gun violence, I'm committed to protecting public safety while respecting responsible gun ownership.