PLATFORM
"Getting things done and finding equitable solutions are the foundation that I stand on. As a Mediator and Volunteer Deputy Voter Registrar my service to the public is ongoing. I want to work for you and with you. Together, we need to create a society where Democracy is the standard not just some idea on paper , but a true way of living. The fight for Democracy for all is now! The fight for Freedom is now! The future of Texas is now! We all need to work together to create more--because WE CAN DO MORE! I know there are a lot of issues that need addressing and I am ready to do the work. I see how our elected officials have neglected and overlooked a large portion of society, as your State Senator I will work with the House of Representatives to create legislation that allocates MORE money to teachers to improve our schools and make public safety and health care - a top priority. With a passion for people and a life dedicated to public service, I am committed to the causes that affect your life. Let's take Action! We are the people who have the power and I am asking for your vote on November 5 to send me to Austin as your next State Senator.
PLATFORM
Education
Supporting our teachers and public school system is my first priority. Children are the future of Texas and they need a quality education. Kids need libraries and books! I will create policies that will re-allocate funds from the Texas Rainy Day Fund to help raise the basic allocation per student. Currently, HB 1 will raise the rate from $6160 to $6700 and that increase is not sufficient. Texas is in the bottom ranking for school funding. I will work to give educators the pay raises they deserve. I will work to secure and provide more funding for special education programs. As a member of the Legislature, it can make appropriations for any purpose it chooses at any time, requiring a two-thirds majority for passage. I will make sure children have the support systems they need after traumatic events like school shootings. I support and will address the mental health needs of the children, teachers and staff. Educators and kids need to feel safe at school. I will work to make sure that more money goes to help schools hire more security officers without having to make budget cuts. No district should have to cut services or jobs due to a lack of funding.
Border Security
Texas has a border problem. The Federal government has not provided the citizens of Texas the support we need to feel safe and secure in or daily lives. The State of Texas keeps spending money trying to solve a situation that clearly needs more bi partisan efforts from both state and federal officials. I would like to see Home Land Security take action to secure all borders of the United States. Our Northern border with Canada has just as many undocumented immigrants coming to the U.S. as Texas. All borders need to be properly monitored and managed to restore border security. Funding should strengthen the immigration systems that are in place now and should allow those that want to enter this country to do so according to our laws. People coming across borders need to be properly vetted and documented to allow them into the country. Proper screening would identify violent and dangerous criminals that are coming to our country.
Voting Rights
SB 1750 was created to hinder voters. Elected officials in a democratic society should create policies that increase civic participation rather than undermine them. I will work to create stronger election integrity legislation. I will defend and protect the right for all to vote in a free and fair election.
Healthcare
The healthcare system is broken. Millions of uninsured citizens are suffering and unable to access health coverage. Healthcare should not have budgetary constraints. Medicare and Medicaid should provide quality care. I support healthcare that reduces prescription prices, reduce out of pocket costs, and makes it easier to access mental health services. Going to the doctor should be affordable. Mental health is a problem that needs to be addressed as a medical issue. I will work with mental health advocates to accelerate more funding that address the needs of that community. No one should struggle to get tests and treatment. Doctors should treat patients and get proper reimbursements from insurance companies without all the rules and regulations.
Environment
Texans have growing concerns about dangerous pollutants in our air and water. As Harris county's population grows, District 7 faces a mounting list of issues that require attention --aging infrastructure is the biggest concern. Extreme weather events create havoc on our roadways and water systems. Senate lawmakers will face numerous challenges on what to prioritize when creating the next budget. I will advocate for the money needed to upgrade and expand the infrastructure and lead the way for a cleaner environment. I will work with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Corp of Engineers.