Issues
Protecting Our Veterans
I grew up in a Navy family and I still consider the military “my people”. Funding cuts and layoffs to the Veterans Administration will make services for our veterans more difficult. Our Veterans fought to protect our country and now it’s our turn to fight for them. I will always vote to support legislation that helps improve the lives of our veterans and our military families.
Thriving Public Schools
I feel strongly that public funds must stay in public schools. We have excellent schools and want to make sure they stay strong. If the federal government cuts education funding, Virginia legislators must step up to ensure our at risk students still have every opportunity to succeed. I taught in public schools for 38 years and nothing is more important to me than the future of our young learners.
Food and Housing Insecurity
When people have a safe place to live and good food to eat, our communities thrive but so many Virginians are struggling to find decent, affordable housing and paychecks haven’t kept up with rising rents and the cost of food. Just applying to rent an apartment is expensive, complex and needs to be easier and I want to find ways to make SNAP benefits secure, keep local food banks funded and provide schools with the money for free breakfasts and lunches for any kid that needs it.
Reproductive Freedom
We have an opportunity to amend Virginia’s Constitution and guarantee every woman’s right to make her own reproductive decisions. This will also guarantee quality health care for pregnant women and protect our doctors and healthcare workers from worrying about arrests or losing their jobs.
Protecting the Environment
My wonderful Dad taught us kids to love and respect the outdoors. We were always camping, hiking, swimming, and watching wildlife. Our 98th district is particularly susceptible to flooding and erosion due to climate change. We need smart solutions, not only to protect people’s property but to preserve our beaches, wetlands and natural habitats. More green space, parks and recreational areas will make Virginia Beach a better place to live.
Marriage Equality
We have another opportunity to amend Virginia’s Constitution next year by repealing the ban on same sex marriage. The Declaration of Independence states that ALL people have the right to Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. This means the government cannot tell us who we can or cannot marry.
