Issues
ECONOMY & TAXES
I am concerned about the number of special interest tax breaks approved in Topeka that are shifting the tax burden more and more onto the backs of property tax payers, small businesses, and even renters who see those taxes passed along in the form of higher rents. I think of taxes as bills for goods and services that we use everyday. Given that taxes aren't going away anytime soon, we need to do more to ensure that tax dollars are being spent efficiently and effectively. I will work to create policies that protect and grow the economy, attract new industries, and create more jobs.
ENVIRONMENT
Kansans deserves a comprehensive energy policy that provides for our energy needs while protecting our environment for future generations. We are fortunate to live in an area of the country that can provide abundant renewable energy. We also happen to have the innovative, entrepreneurial spirit that can bring our policies into the 21st century. With the right energy and environmental policies, we can create more jobs, promote a cleaner environment, and build new industries in Kansas. I will work to forward legislation that acknowledges and promotes these advantages.
EDUCATION
Having benefited from public education my entire life, kindergarten through college, I understand the need to fully fund our schools. We must continue to provide the resources our children and teachers need to succeed in the classroom. Our teachers need to be some of the top paid in the nation rather than ranking in the bottom third so we can recruit and retain the best and brightest to teach our children. The Kansas' Constitution places the financial burden to fund our schools at the door step of the State Legislature. More dollars from the state reduces the reliance on the property taxes at the local level. I will work to ensure that every tax dollar for education is used effectively and efficiently.
AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE
Rising health care costs are jeopardizing the security of Kansas families - state government must be an advocate for businesses and consumers instead of special interests. I will work to streamline health care services to universally improve effectiveness and accessibility for all Kansans.
SAFE PLACES TO LIVE, WORK, AND PLAY
Our schools must not only be good, but also safe. Our current policy, which dumps the burden of gun prevention solely on our local education system, is unjust and must—for the safety of our children—be reversed.