Why are you seeking public office?
I live by the value “I will not complain about a problem unless I am willing to work on the solution.” During my volunteer service in our youth correctional facilities I saw many problems, namely prisons full of children who slipped through the cracks. I had to seal those cracks. When my own son attempted suicide in the 4th grade, at school, I knew I had to take action to help him and the many other kids being missed.
What will your top three priorities be if elected?
Suicide prevention, Mental health parity, school safety.
Do you support some type of public option health insurance or Medicare for All at the state level? If so, which and why? If not, why not?
I have not seen a program I feel comfortable supporting yet. I do believe we need to get to some version of coverage for all but I don’t know what the solution is yet. I am committed to working on it.
Have your views on policing and racism in Colorado changed this year? If so, how?
My views haven’t changed but they have been cemented. There needs to be a wholesale culture shift in the police departments in our state and our nation. Any form of racism has to be eradicated from their midst. Everyone needs to be treated with dignity and respect, even in the instance of arrest. I believe this can and needs to be done.
Do you place a greater importance on addressing climate change or preserving Colorado’s oil and gas industry? What steps would you take on these issues as a lawmaker?
Addressing climate change and disruptions to the environment is a paramount concern. I believe our role is to make certain operations that exist in our state follow the highest levels of safety protocols to keep both our land and our people safe.
Should Colorado consider any new gun laws? If so, which do you support?
I believe our focus needs to be on teaching safe usage and storage of firearms. I am working on a piece of legislation to require physicians to share safe storage information and what to do in the case of a behavioral health crisis with your firearms in Colorado.
Kerrie Gutierrez has not returned the questionnaire.
