Campaign Phone
208-310-2922
If elected, I hope to bring some balance to the legislature that has gone too far with government overreach in recent sessions. I want to collaborate with legislators across the aisle to introduce and pass legislation that will 1) make Idaho a safe, welcoming place for all people, free of discrimination, 2) provide businesses with an educated workforce, 3) adequately fund our public schools and school facilities, 4) support voting and initiative rights for all Idahoans, and 5) provide services and resources for families in order to prevent ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences). I strongly believe that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” and that the legislature should focus more on providing services that help Idaho families.
I have actively participated in several Latah County organizations and local chapters of state and national organizations for many years. I was a founding member of several organizations and served on the Latah County Parks Board for 13 years. I am a retired Jr. High Science teacher and had my own business as a scientific illustrator. These experiences have allowed me to recognize community needs and work to meet those needs using my skills as a creative problem solver.
For several years, I have watched the Idaho legislative sessions, studied bills, and testified both for and against bills in committee hearings. I also participated in a successful effort to get a resolution about ACEs passed in 2022.
I am ready to serve as a legislator.
The legislature must fulfill its constitutional duty to fund public education adequately without raising property taxes through constant school bonds and levies. As a former teacher, I can address the need to support modern facilities, excellent teachers, and creative instructional opportunities. I oppose any efforts to take away public funds for the use of private or religious schools.
Other challenges include funding programs and services for Idaho families: childcare, foster care, mental and physical healthcare, and affordable housing. I support the Community School concept: public schools providing services and support for students and families that fit each neighborhood’s needs, created and run by the local communities.
Yes. Criminalization of doctors providing healthcare is dangerous for all patients, doctors, and communities. Idaho already lags behind in per capita physicians and we are losing physicians due to the threat of criminal liability.
All Idahoans, including pregnant women, should have the freedom to make decisions about their bodies and their healthcare. I support individual liberty and freedom in healthcare and family planning and believe these decisions should be private, made in consultation with a trusted physician, and not made by the legislature.
I believe that the current focus of my opponent and the supermajority legislature is not in step with the majority of Idahoans.
Idaho, like the rest of our nation, is very polarized, resulting in animosity and extremism.
I am a trained moderator and ambassador for the national organization, Braver Angels. Its mission is to “bridge the partisan divide and strengthen our democratic republic.” My focus is “Bringing Idahoans Together” to talk to each other with respect, find common ground, and work together to solve, or prevent, problems to help our Idaho communities thrive. That is what I believe is the job of the Idaho legislature.
Campaign Phone
208-596-5001
My primary commitment has always been to safeguard individual freedoms, which is foundational to our state's values. In this legislative session, I aim to collaborate with my colleagues to address the critical doctor shortage in Idaho utilizing the WWAMI program as a key resource.
Additionally, I remain dedicated to enhancing our K-12 education system by working closely with our Superintendent of Instruction. By returning to the fundamentals and integrating practical trade courses into our curriculum, we can equip our youth with valuable skills upon graduation. Whether they choose to pursue higher ed or enter the workforce directly, they will be prepared with marketable abilities that serve both their futures and our state's economy
I grew up in a small town, experiencing firsthand the challenges of poverty. Through determination and hard work I was able to overcome the obstacles that often prevent people from achieving success. As a small business owner, I understand the importance of balancing budgets and controlling spending.
By cutting unnecessary expenses, we can reallocate funds to critical areas or return them to the taxpayers. During my tenure as your representative, I've gained valuable experience in working not only with colleagues across the aisle, but also with individuals from differing backgrounds.
I firmly believe in the importance of civil dialogue, listening to those who hold opposing views. Considering all perspectives, we can craft sound policy.
After speaking with many constituents, it's clear that property taxes remain the most pressing issue for Idahoans in my district. My objective is to seek thoughtful and effective solutions rather than rushing to support the first proposal that appears promising.
Addressing property taxes is complex because the state neither collects nor directly allocates these funds. However, what the state can do—and has done—is provide targeted funding for specific departments and activities to alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by our cities and counties. Solutions will likely take time and need to be implemented in stages.
I cannot commit to a specific vote without thoroughly reviewing the bill's language. Too often, a seemingly minor clause can turn an otherwise good bill into a problematic one.
In 2023 the house republicans passed HB374. This cleared up language and eliminated the “affirmative defense” clause making it easier for the doctors to use their best judgment in protecting the life of the mother. Every republican in the house and senate voted in favor of this bill while the democrats in the house took a walk and those in the senate, voted against it.
We cannot prioritize one life over another. In the instance where a mother’s life is in jeopardy, the parents and the doctor need to make that tough decision.
Since being elected in 2020, I've gained valuable experience in navigating the legislative process. Achieving results requires collaboration with fellow legislators to build consensus on the direction our state should take. It's crucial to the success of Idaho that we faithfully serve our constituents and remain attentive to their concerns. I have developed the skills to effectively engage with and listen to our community.
In July, I had the opportunity to attend a legislative leadership training seminar with 50 individuals from differing backgrounds and across the political spectrum. We set aside our party affiliations and focused on learning how to work together to achieve common goals. This gave me the skills needed to make sound policy.
