Why are you seeking public office?
As a Certified Financial Planner™, I am an expert in finding creative solutions to budget problems. I will use my knowledge and experience in finance to create solutions to sustain our economic recovery while still reflecting my values as a former high school teacher for well funded public education, affordable access to mental healthcare, and equity in quality of life for all in Colorado.
What will your top three priorities be if elected?
Truly funding our public education system that is equitable with high expectations for every child and school, where children’s minds are nurtured and challenged. Affordable health care that must include mental health care coverage. We must continue to push for equal rights for all, protections for consumers, workers, retirees, reproductive rights and our environment through an efficient, transparent, and fair government.
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 prefer health care coverage for all that is implemented at the federal level so people of all states can receive quality healthcare. However, we should address it at the state level since we lack the leadership in D.C. Medicare for all is my preference based on my work as a financial planner with retirees who receive the benefit at age 65. Medicare is a powerful plan providing basic, cost efficient coverage, with an opportunity for an individual to supplement it within their budget. It leverages the power of all people enrolled to create negotiated cost savings through all levels of healthcare.
Have your views on policing and racism in Colorado changed this year? If so, how?
I have always understood that there was more danger to people of color than to myself as a white male during encounters with law enforcement. Unnecessary and aggressive tactics have been used for generations against people of color. However, this year with the use of cameras and social media, the tipping point for change has been reached. It is just the beginning of reforming policing methods, attitudes, and accountability. It is also an opportunity to bring effective change in addressing systemic racism, mental health, uniform police training, and methods of law enforcement.
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?
Climate change is the issue that we cannot ignore. The scientific world has been warning us for years of the dangers of carbon emissions and those warnings are coming to fruition through unprecedented weather events, forest fires, heat waves, and drought. We must stand up and address the future of our planet, the future we are leaving to our children, while supporting the energy workers whose lives are disrupted with resources on job retraining and transition. We can replace jobs and provide economic support, we cannot replace our air and water.
Should Colorado consider any new gun laws? If so, which do you support?
We should consider any law that would protect the population, especially the vulnerable, from the irresponsible actions of those who would use firearms to harm another or themselves. One particular law I would support is a waiting period of 48 hours between purchase and delivery of a gun to prevent acts based on impulse as seen when one woman caused the shutdown of all our metro schools in 2019.
Why are you seeking public office?
After living, working, and volunteering in this community for 20 years, I understand the unique issues to this District. I’ve spent the last year talking to my neighbors and voters across the District. Issues like education, the economy, and the safety of our children have come up again and again. These issues are important to me, and more so they are important to the voters. My first priority is to represent the voters and this is why I am seeking public office.
What will your top three priorities be if elected?
Economic development, along with expanding educational opportunities and government transparency are at the top of my agenda. This District has a lot of small business owners and working professionals that rely on a strong economy. The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed the growth of our economy. Focused investment in infrastructure and job creation will help bring certainty to the market for business owners.
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?
Colorado already has a state-run program under the Affordable Healthcare Act. I don’t support expanding a plan that would allow the government to set healthcare rates and require healthcare providers to accept them.
Have your views on policing and racism in Colorado changed this year? If so, how?
I have always advocated for increased transparency and accountability for police. During my time representing local governments I’ve noticed that Colorado has a weak licensing process for police officers. This is an area where we could improve with support from police officers who understand the need for higher professional standards.
I don’t believe that these issues are mutually exclusive. The Colorado oil and gas industry has made huge strides in improving emissions and air quality. Like with any industry, if we want further improvement in this area we should consult experts in the field.
Should Colorado consider any new gun laws? If so, which do you support?
Colorado should consider enhancing the criminal penalties for using a weapon in the commission of a crime.
