Priorities

In a democratic society, voting is not just a right but a responsibility that empowers individuals to shape the future of our communities, state, and nation. As we approach the 2024 elections, it becomes even more crucial to understand the priorities and positions of those of us asking for your vote.

Below you will find some of my priorities so we can begin a conversation on what we can work towards in building a better world and making history together.

Education

All Minnesota students deserve a world-class education, and this is achievable. Together, we must prioritize:

• Increasing education funding with a particular focus on reducing disparities between schools in different socioeconomic communities
• Expanding access to high-quality Pre-K education for all children regardless of their zip code or economic status. .
• Attract and retain the best teachers and educational support staff by advocating for increased teacher pay, professional development opportunities, and more classroom resources.
• Increasing support and resources–including mental health resources– for all students—but particularly neurodivergent students and students with disabilities—cannot be overstated.
• Promoting policies that ensure equal access to the best education we can offer for all Minnesota students.

Environment

One of the most pressing issues of our time is combatting climate change. Aggressive action to combat this global crisis and protect our local environment right here at home is essential. I will prioritize:

• Investing in renewable energy sources, increasing environmental regulation, and encouraging cooperation to reduce carbon emissions.
• Developing more clean energy and transit infrastructure across the state
• Promoting and incentivizing sustainable environmental practices to ensure a greener future and protect the beauty of Minnesota for generations to come.

Healthcare

A healthy society understands we must care for one another holistically.

To prioritize a healthier Minnesota we must:

• Work to provide a more affordable and accessible public insurance option for Minnesotans
• Lower prescription drug costs by promoting generic drug manufacturing competition, including drug costs for mental health conditions and substance abuse treatments
• Increase funding for mental health programs, expand insurance coverage for mental health services, and integrate mental health and substance abuse treatment into primary healthcare

Protecting Choice and Human Rights

After two and a half centuries of molding the Great American Experiment that promises equality for all, we continue to fight for social justice and equal rights. I will continue to fight against systemic racism, discrimination, and inequality by:

• Supporting the protection and expansion of women’s healthcare and reproductive rights including preventative screenings, maternal healthcare, access to contraception, and safe, legal abortion.
• Championing LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, indigenous rights, and immigrant rights.
• Prioritizing criminal justice reform
• Working towards a more just and inclusive society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect and has their rights protected.

Economic Equity

The best moments of our society take place when we have an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few. I will prioritize policies aimed at:

• Reducing the impacts of inflation by focusing on addressing income inequality and expanding economic opportunities
• Advocating for fairer tax systems and ensuring Minnesotans can access livable wages
• Making housing options more affordable, protecting the rights of renters, and creating more equitable pathways to homeownership
• Creating more and more affordable childcare options for working families
• Prioritizing investments in accessible higher education opportunities and job training

Protecting Democracy

The very essence of democracy is at stake in the 2024 elections. I am committed to:

• Protecting democratic institutions, ensuring fair elections continue to be executed, and upholding the rule of law
• Fighting against voter suppression efforts and —
• Advocating for campaign finance reform and anti-gerrymandering through nonpartisan districting commissions
• Supporting progressive candidates in 2024 to safeguard the democratic values that underpin our society and protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens