Issues

Concerned Citizens,

We currently face the most challenging time in a generation as our small businesses and working families struggle to make ends meet. While Washington state has fared better than other states, it has affected everyone in every community. If  we face these challenges by reforming government, restoring our economy and supporting our communities Washington will emerge as a leading economy in the West.

In particular, my stance on specific issues are as follows:

Reforming Government

Government must live within its means.  That is why I fought against the repeal of the Taxpayer Protection Act and opposed a state budget that spends much more than the state will receive in tax revenue.  People are understandably demanding more open, accessible government. The legislative process must become more public and in a manner that convinces constituents they are being heard.

Restoring the Economy

We must allow our working families and small businesses to keep more of their hard earned money to sustain themselves during this current time and invest for the future.  That is why I opposed the laundry list of tax increases (17 taxes out of more than 90 that were proposed).  We must ensure access to adequate, affordable water and energy supplies.

Supporting Communities

We must continue to make our communities safe and provide basic services and infrastructure.  We were successful in passing legislation to fight the scourge of gangs.

I fought against diverting money from the Public Works Trust Fund (intended for local infrastructure projects) into the General Fund to pay for more government programs.