Candidate for
State Senator; District 1

I am running for State Senate to bring a moderate, forward-looking approach to the very partisan atmosphere in the Legislature. I will work with all legislators for what is best for this exceptional district and the state, not what is best for me or my party. While working to solve the problems inherent in urban and suburban areas, as a resident of a mainly rural area I will also work to represent the smaller communities that have been ignored for far too long.

I will work with everyone to build a strong foundation for a prosperous society, which includes education and job training; a living wage in a safe working environment; opportunities for businesses; and affordable, quality health care and housing.

Government's job is to equip Americans with the tools to solve their own problems by providing equal opportunity for all and special privilege for none. Citizens have a duty to demand from their government fiscal responsibility; a good education system; a decent climate for economic growth; protection of the environment; and civil and equal rights.

Fiscal responsibility includes a fair tax system that allows investment in efficient and productive programs for the benefit of future generations. Innovation is needed to improve environmental quality and economic growth now and for the future. Civil rights must be protected and equality guaranteed even while defending ourselves against terrorism.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

• Emphasize efficiency, accountability, and productivity in government
• Cut state government energy and procurement costs
• Use results-based budgeting determined by what residents want from government
• Find fair and reasonable ways to increase revenues, such as closing tax loopholes

• Use innovative ways to recruit and retain teachers with induction programs and competitive pay initiatives
• Increase efficiency in spending to put more money in classrooms
• Student, parent, teacher, school, and school district accountability + resources = true investment in better results

• Allow everyone in California to access quality health care at an affordable price

• Encourage and reward innovation for environmental quality and economic growth
• Invest in programs for future generations, such as renewable energy and mass transit projects, to improve the quality of air and water supply NOW

• Focus on innovation, higher skills, constant adaptation, and access to the digital economy
• Have minimum regulations and expenses to achieve clearly defined outcomes
• Ensure that all workers receive a living wage and work in safe conditions
• Emphasize smart growth and decent, affordable housing development

• Strike a balance between personal freedoms on which we depend and security measures on which we rely