Transparent and Inclusive Government
The proper role of government is to be limited, sensible, transparent, and accountable to the people first. Free from conflict of interest or kickbacks, our elected officials are obligated to expose dishonesty, waste, and laziness in our government operations. We The People expect to be prioritized in the decision-making process and faithfully served with open information. Establishment career-politicians serve the interests of the corporations, big business and special interest donors in their pockets. This is why I am Independent and refuse to accept any contributions from special interest groups, PAC or corporations. Unlike my opponent, I am running a 100% fully people funded election campaign, not bought or sponsored by any corporation. We need to restore integrity into our representative democracy if we value our democratic way of life. This begins with being clear of conflict of interest and representing the interests of The People First to promote a healthy, democratic exchange of ideas which hold us public servants and government accountable to the tax payer.
Affordable Housing and Taxes
As our state population grows rapidly, the rising cost of living, housing, and doing business affects everyone. Taxpayers have the burden of picking up the tab. Our elected officials are obligated to be conservative by cutting waste, streamlining government spending and invest our tax dollars wisely. Currently, the most urgent issue is the housing crisis, specifically the gap in affordable housing for lower-income families. Access to decent housing is fundamental to the safety, stability, and prosperity of every American family. Poverty and homelessness is on the rise in Idaho. Our most vulnerable that are living on a fixed income; senior citizens, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, face food insecurity and are forced to choose between paying for heat, housing, or healthcare. We can do better and must do better to understand the reality our working poor families are struggling to survive in. Their voices need to be heard in the public policy decisions where housing development, tax rates, and budgeting issues are concerned. The government's role in developing private property should be limited. However, the government has a responsibility to represent the housing needs of the people it represents and provide developers with tools, incentives, and guidelines that support public policy goals. For every family, the American Dream is based on having access to a decent home to live in.
Legalization of Medical Marijuana
A healthy Idaho begins with healthy Idaho families and individuals. We are ignoring the biggest threat to public health and safety in our State. The meth and opioid epidemic is spreading and destroying families in our community. Addiction and overdose affect families from all income, political, ethnic and religious backgrounds in Idaho, this is not a political issue, this is a livelihood issue. The war on drugs has failed the American people, this failed policy is embedded in our institutions and has stigmatized addiction along with the families stuck in this destructive cycle. The status quo is to criminalize instead of addressing the underlying factors of addiction such as mental health, education and access to preventative resources. Building more jails, cracking down on arrests has not, and will not address this exponentially increasing crisis. I absolutely support the legalization of medical marijuana in Idaho as freedom to choose and healthcare access for patients seeking alternative treatment to addictive opioids. As your Independent State Representative, I am absolutely committed to listening to Idaho families, service providers and law enforcement and supporting proactive legislative action concerning this epidemic.
Resource Impact & Regional Development
The Magic Valley's natural resources are the backbone of our culture and livelihood in southern Idaho. Common sense development and policies will ensure our farmers, businesses and communities will prosper while also preserving adequate water supplies, healthy soil, and habitat for our iconic wildlife. 2022 marks Idaho’s second year of drought, as we and our farmers experience historic level water shortage and the drying up of aquifers. There is a disconnect between the values our legislature expresses and legislative action when it comes to protecting our waters, land, and environment. It is concerning to know that for-profit corporations influence political action and are in the pockets of our State Representatives. This is why I am running a fully people-only funded election campaign, I refuse to deliver favors to special interests and corporations as a State Representative. My commitment is to the people, our farmers, and the future Idaho generations. When it comes to preserving Idaho’s nature, it affects our long-term vitality and economic growth. Our nature is not a political issue, it is a livelihood issue. It is our lifeline for farming, living, and tourism. A healthy community and environment are essential for quality of life, economic success, and future prosperity.
Equality and Integrity in Representation
Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect in Idaho. The rich heritage and history of Idaho includes settlers, migrants, and immigrants from various backgrounds. We have stagnation in our representation, the same Good Ol' Boys, career politicians helping promote the special interests of a small minority through nepotism and cronyism. Our Representatives should reflect the rich cultural, generational, economical and citizen participation of our Magic Valley. As your Independent Candidate for State Representative, I have freedom and autonomy from marching to Party ideology on priority issues, I listen and represent The People First! I bring an independent, diverse perspective and believe I can contribute towards representation of an under-served population. Latinos, immigrants, refugees, and LGBT families have contributed to the history, culture and economic growth of our community and State. Equal opportunity begins with equal representation in a government of the people, by the people and for the people. This inclusion of Idaho's diverse majority will promote a healthy, democratic exchange of ideas and hold public servants and government accountable to all Idahoans.
Supporting Small Business
Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy and promoters of our unique community culture & traditions. As a small business owner and small-scale manufacturer, I understand how government can support small businesses in succeeding or slowing down progress with excessive and overreaching regulations. Larger companies that have received tax breaks and incentives to relocate to Idaho have contributed greatly to our economical growth. This growth is valuable. At the same time, it presents real challenges to small businesses. Our government must reduce red tape, corporate scale measures, and other bureaucratic obstacles which limit small businesses from thriving.