What is one new policy that the state should embrace to make housing easier to build and afford?
I am honored to serve on the Housing Committee, which was created to address the crisis that we are facing across our state, especially in Bangor.
We are working hard on solutions. The state has a shortage of housing stock and has heavily invested in development to close that gap. I am dedicated to continuing this work through thoughtful collaboration with local officials and administration at the city and county level.
We all deserve a safe and affordable place to call home. Addressing the housing crisis benefits all, regardless of income.
When I am reelected I will work hard to pass policies that will increase rent relief so families can stay in their homes without the fear of instability. This benefits our economy by helping both renters and the homeowners who they are renting from.
Transmission lines, solar incentives and offshore wind development have been controversial over the past several years. What steps should Maine take to meet growing demand for electricity?
I believe strongly in our need to invest in clean energy production that results in affordable and reliable power for Maine families. I believe that we need to do this with intention, care, and the full understanding of the environmental impact of this innovation.
Across our state, especially in coastal communities, we have witnessed the devastating impact of natural disasters as a result of the climate crisis. We must divest from fossil fuels to prevent further harm to our environment.
One thing Mainers can all agree on is how beautiful our state is. Investing in clean energy ensures that we leave a better life for our children, grandchildren, and future generations. We all deserve the freedom to breathe clean air, drink safe water, and continue to enjoy the benefits of living in Maine.
Should the state make changes to its tax laws? If so, outline your priorities.
As a member of the Taxation Committee, I am proud to have enacted progressive tax policies that bring relief to Mainers.
We have worked hard to invest in policies that help aging Mainers stay in their homes, and families care for their kids, such as the Property Tax Fairness and the Child Tax Credit.
This year, I worked hard to sponsor tax policy to support the health of our community. This law that passed uses a portion of the taxes that the state collects from recreational cannabis and reinvests it into Recovery Community Centers to support our neighbors in overcoming addiction.
Mainers deserve an economy in which we can all make a good living and care for our families. As your representative, I am dedicated to continuing to push for fair taxes and an economy in which we can all thrive.
We are closing in on the one-year anniversary of the Lewiston mass shooting. Are further legislative responses required around guns, mental health, supporting victims and families or other policy areas?
The devastating mass shooting on October 25th was a reminder that Maine is one community, the event had a lasting impact on all of us.
I am dedicated to working with my colleagues to find solutions that prevent this from ever happening again. Regardless of our political affiliation, I believe that we can come together to find common sense solutions to protect our communities.
I’m proud that the legislature expanded background checks, funded crisis receiving centers, and invested in mental health services. I believe that we can take further steps to strengthen policies and implement crisis intervention protocol to prevent gun injuries, homicide, and suicide.
We deserve freedom from gun violence and we deserve the freedom to trust that our kids will come home safe at the end of each day.
Describe a unique attribute or area of focus that you will bring to the Legislature.
My connection to community gives me a unique perspective in seeking legislative solutions, because I believe that laws should be fully informed by the people most affected by them.
My years of advocating at the State House that preceded my time as an elected official allowed me to hit the ground running as a legislator. My experience is an asset and the relationships I’ve built with legislators across the aisle have made it possible for me to make positive and productive change in a collaborative way.
The needs of our city and the people who call it home will always be my top priority, and I will commit to being a resource and advocate for my constituents. I hope to continue to serve as your State Representative and earn your vote on November 5th.
