VOTE411 Voter Guide

I have championed Missouri public schools and access to health and mental health services for more than two decades. I raised my children in the Kansas City Public Schools and recognized the immense impact of public schools on families and community vitality. When Kansas City's public schools starting falling short, I ran for the school board to help focus efforts on regaining accreditation and rebuilding local and state confidence in our schools. I continue to carry this passion as Missouri state leaders seek to reduce funding and support for our schools.

My work on health care policies began 25 years ago, working with local community health centers that are on the frontlines of delivering care and for a regional philanthropy focused on health. Employment, family stability and well-being are affected by health care. I'm a champion for Medicaid expansion and ensuring children maintain coverage, and support protection of rural health services.

Expand options for child care to help working families. Focus: Establish start-up grants for child care in underserved areas; provide tax credits for providers to support facility upgrades and expansion; increase level of funding for Missouri's new tri-share program to serve more children.

Increase access to mental health services. Expand availability of court-directed assisted outpatient treatment for people with severe mental illness who struggle to comply with treatment. This program can help prevent repeat hospitalizations, homelessness and incarceration.

Implement consumer protections regarding false marketing of AI platforms as qualified mental health services. I championed legislation in 2026 that had broad support and from medical providers with concerns about risks to youth and adults with depression and anxiety.