Vote Smart - Facts For All

Abortion and Reproductive Health

Pro-life		a) Do you generally support pro-choice or pro-life legislation?
		b) Do you support legalizing abortion when the pregnancy resulted from incest or rape?
Yes		c) Do you support the prohibition of public funds (e.g. Medicaid) for organizations that perform abortions?
a) Do you generally support pro-choice or pro-life legislation? L - Pro-life My stance is firmly pro-life as I believe in the sanctity of life at all stages. However, I support approaches that respect individual choices by focusing on education about life issues, providing support for expecting mothers, and promoting alternatives like adoption. My goal is to create a supportive environment where the choice for life is as informed and respected as possible. b) Do you support legalizing abortion when the pregnancy resulted from incest or rape? This is a profoundly difficult situation, and my heart goes out to all victims of such terrible acts. While I empathize deeply with anyone in this circumstance, my Catholic faith upholds the dignity of every life, including the unborn. Therefore, I advocate for supportive services and counseling for victims of incest and rape, aiming to provide them with alternatives to abortion that respect both the mother's trauma and the unborn?s life. c) Do you support the prohibition of public funds (e.g., Medicaid) for organizations that perform abortions? Y - Yes I believe that public funds should be used in ways that align with the foundational values of protecting life. Therefore, I support the prohibition of public funding for abortions, redirecting those funds toward healthcare services that provide support for prenatal care, postnatal care, and family planning in ways that affirm life without performing abortions. Other or expanded principles: A core aspect of my platform is the need to define clearly what constitutes a fetus and to educate society on the value of life from conception. It is essential that all discussions around these topics are conducted with both compassion and clarity to ensure that our policies reflect a deep respect for both life and individual liberties. I am committed to fostering dialogues that bridge divides and promote a culture that values every life, providing real choices that support women and families.

Budget, Spending, and Taxes

Yes		a) In order to balance the budget, do you support limiting state government spending on social programs (e.g. SNAP, TANF)?
Yes		b) Do you support a decrease in income taxes in order to promote economic growth?
No		c) Do you support a wealth tax in order to pay for public programs in your state?
No		d) Would you support a constitutional amendment to repeal or limit the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights (known as TABOR)?
a) In order to balance the budget, do you support limiting state government spending on social programs (e.g., SNAP, TANF)? Yes, I support limiting state government spending on certain social programs. My approach focuses on fostering individual self-reliance and reducing dependency on government assistance. However, any reduction in spending should be carefully evaluated to ensure that the most vulnerable populations are protected, and efforts should be made to transition individuals towards self-sufficiency through education and job training programs. b) Do you support a decrease in income taxes in order to promote economic growth? Yes, I support a decrease in income taxes as a means to stimulate economic growth. Lowering income taxes increases disposable income for consumers and reduces the financial burden on businesses, fostering investment and job creation. This approach not only boosts the economy but also respects individuals' right to retain more of their earnings. c) Do you support a wealth tax in order to pay for public programs in your state? No, I do not support a wealth tax. Imposing additional taxes on wealth can discourage investment and savings, potentially stunting economic growth and innovation. Instead, I advocate for a simplified and fair tax system with a cap that respects individuals' property rights and encourages economic prosperity. d) Would you support a constitutional amendment to repeal or limit the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights (known as TABOR)? No, I would not support an amendment to repeal or limit TABOR. I believe in the principles of limited government and fiscal responsibility that TABOR promotes. Ensuring that tax increases or major fiscal changes are subject to voter approval is a critical check on government expansion and helps keep government accountable to the people. Other or expanded principles: I propose a fundamental reform of our tax system, advocating for the abolition of property taxes and capping all taxes at 10%. This approach not only simplifies the tax code but ensures that government does not overburden citizens and businesses, encouraging a free and prosperous economy. By focusing on these tax reforms, we can better align our fiscal policies with the principles of freedom and responsibility, ensuring that our state can independently support its needs without excessive taxation or federal dependency.

Crime and Public Safety

Yes		a) Do you support capital punishment for violent crimes?
No		b) Should an individual under 18 accused of a violent crime be prosecuted as an adult?
Yes		c) Do you support the enforcement of federal immigration laws by state and local police?
No		d) Do you support the use of private prisons?
No		e) Do you support mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent drug offenders?
a) Do you support capital punishment for violent crimes? Yes, I support capital punishment for violent crimes. This stance is informed by the constitutional founding principles of justice and the protection of society, which historically included the death penalty as a means of administering the most severe punishment for the most egregious crimes. The framers of the Constitution acknowledged capital punishment as a lawful penalty that could serve as a deterrent against grave offenses and an instrument of retributive justice. While I deeply value the sanctity of life, I also recognize the government's duty to protect its citizens from harm and to uphold justice. Therefore, in cases of particularly heinous crimes, where the safety and security of the community are at stake, the use of capital punishment can be justified under the framework of our founding legal system. However, it is crucial that such a serious sentence be carried out with the utmost fairness and diligence, ensuring due process and that all legal avenues for defense and appeal are thoroughly pursued, as guaranteed by the Constitution. This approach ensures that the application of capital punishment is just, measured, and appropriately reserved for cases where the evidence is incontrovertible. b) Consistent with my faith and respect for the constitutional principle of justice, I believe we must prioritize rehabilitation over punishment for minors. The Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment guides us to consider the lesser culpability of juveniles and their greater capacity for change. Therefore, prosecuting minors as adults contradicts both our moral responsibilities and constitutional principles. c) While respecting the rule of law, I believe state and local resources should focus on community safety and welfare, promoting policies that are in line with both our moral duties and respect for federal jurisdiction. Aligning with Catholic Traditional teaching and the Tenth Amendment, which respects the powers not delegated to the federal government nor prohibited to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people, I advocate for state and local autonomy in determining the extent of involvement in federal immigration enforcement. This autonomy should be exercised with compassion and respect for human dignity, prioritizing community trust and public safety over stringent enforcement of federal mandates. d) I oppose the use of private prisons, as they can prioritize profit over the rehabilitative and moral aspects of incarceration, which is at odds with both Catholic teaching and the aim of justice as envisioned in our constitutional framework. e) Opposing mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent drug offenders aligns with both the Catholic emphasis on mercy and the constitutional principle of proportionality in sentencing. I support judicial discretion to ensure that sentences are just and tailored to individual circumstances, fostering rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. My approach to justice is deeply rooted in the concept of restorative justice, which resonates with both my Catholic values and constitutional principles. This approach not only upholds the sanctity of every individual but also actively contributes to a more just, merciful, and safer society.

Economy

No		a) Do you support state government spending as a means of promoting economic growth (e.g. grants, tax incentives)?
Yes		b) Do you support reducing state government regulations on the private sector (e.g. for business or the environment)?
No		c) Do you support an increase of the minimum wage of Colorado?
No		d) Do you support government spending on affordable housing projects in Colorado?
a) Do you support state government spending as a means of promoting economic growth (e.g. grants, tax incentives)? I support strategic state government initiatives that promote economic growth, such as targeted tax incentives, but only when they are fiscally responsible and do not lead to increased taxation elsewhere. These initiatives should be efficiently managed and transparent, ensuring they truly benefit the economic sectors they are meant to help and do not burden the taxpayer unnecessarily. However, my primary focus remains on reducing the overall tax burden, including ending the federal income tax and capping all taxes at 10%. b) Do you support reducing state government regulations on the private sector (e.g. for business or the environment)? Yes, I support reducing unnecessary state government regulations on the private sector to foster entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth. While regulations are necessary for protecting health and safety, they often become overly burdensome and stifle business productivity. We must ensure that regulations are sensible, targeted, and do not impede the economic freedom essential for a thriving market economy. c) Do you support an increase of the minimum wage in Colorado? While I understand the intentions behind increasing the minimum wage, I believe that such policies can have unintended consequences, such as reduced employment opportunities and increased operational costs for small businesses. Instead, I advocate for policies that enhance job training and education, which can naturally lead to higher wages through improved skills and productivity. d) Do you support government spending on affordable housing projects in Colorado? While affordable housing is a critical need, I believe that government spending should be carefully scrutinized and targeted. Instead of direct spending on housing projects, I support measures that reduce regulatory barriers for builders and developers to increase the supply of affordable housing. This approach can lead to more sustainable solutions by leveraging private sector efficiency while ensuring that housing remains affordable through market dynamics. Other or Expanded Principles My economic principles are rooted in a belief in minimal government interference and maximum personal and economic freedom. I advocate for a simplified tax system, where taxes are fair, transparent, and capped to encourage investment and spending in the private sector. By adhering to these principles, we can foster an environment that promotes prosperity and opportunity for all Coloradans.

Education

No		a) Do you support adopting federal education standards (e.g. Common Core) in Colorado?
Yes		b) Do you support state funding for charter schools?
Yes		c) Do you support increasing teacher salaries AND/OR benefits in Colorado?
No		d) Should immigrants in the United States who graduate from Colorado high schools be eligible for in-state tuition at public universities, regardless of immigration status?
a) Do you support adopting federal education standards (e.g. Common Core) in Colorado? N - No I do not support adopting federal education standards like Common Core in Colorado. I believe in local control of education, allowing counties and communities to develop curricula that best meet their students' needs while focusing on foundational skills like the 3 R's (reading, writing, arithmetic) and civic education. b) Do you support state funding for charter schools? Yes I support state funding for charter schools as they provide parents with more educational choices. Charter schools, being part of the public school system, can offer innovative and diverse teaching methods while still adhering to high educational standards. c) Do you support increasing teacher salaries AND/OR benefits in Colorado? Yes I support increasing teacher salaries and benefits in Colorado to attract and retain quality educators who are essential to our children�s education. Ensuring that teachers are well-compensated is crucial for maintaining the quality of education and fulfilling our duty to provide basic education effectively. d) Should immigrants in the United States who graduate from Colorado high schools be eligible for in-state tuition at public universities, regardless of immigration status? No I believe that in-state tuition at public universities should be reserved for legal residents of Colorado. While I support providing educational opportunities to all students, state-funded benefits like in-state tuition should be aligned with legal residency status. Other or Expanded Principles My principle stands firm on ensuring education remains a local responsibility, reflecting the values and needs of the community. Education policy should empower parents, respect local control, and prioritize fundamental skills and moral education. This approach supports not only academic excellence but also fosters responsible and capable future citizens.

Energy and Environment

No		a) Do you support state funding for the development of renewable energy (e.g. solar, wind, geo-thermal)?
Yes		b) Do you support state governments allowing permits for drilling on public lands?
Yes		c) Do you support increasing state funding for clean drinking water initiatives?
a) Do you support state funding for the development of renewable energy (e.g. solar, wind, geo-thermal)? N - No I do not support state funding for the development of renewable energy. I believe that the energy market should be driven by free-market principles without government intervention. While renewable energy can be beneficial, it should compete on an equal footing with other energy sources based on efficiency, cost, and consumer demand. b) Do you support state governments allowing permits for drilling on public lands? Y - Yes Yes, I support allowing permits for drilling on public lands, as it can contribute significantly to our energy independence and economic growth. However, this should be managed responsibly, ensuring that it does not compromise the health and safety of the public or the integrity of our natural resources. c) Do you support increasing state funding for clean drinking water initiatives? Y - Yes Yes, I support increasing state funding for clean drinking water initiatives. Providing access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental necessity that directly affects public health and welfare, aligning with the government's duty to protect the life and safety of its citizens. Other or Expanded Principles In advocating for a free-market approach to environmental issues, I believe that innovation and competition are key drivers for sustainable solutions. The government should create a regulatory environment that promotes fair competition and protects against harm, rather than directly intervening in the market with subsidies or excessive regulation. This approach encourages the development of efficient, cost-effective solutions that consumers can choose based on their merits, promoting both economic freedom and responsible stewardship of the environment.

Government Reform

Yes		a)Do you support limiting campaign contributions from corporations, unions, and individuals?
Yes		b) Do you support the use of an independent or bipartisan commission for redistricting?
Yes		c) Do you support requiring a government-issued photo identification in order to vote at the polls?
No		d) Do you support automatic voter registration?
No		e) Do you support the implementation of ranked choice voting in Colorado?
a) Do you support limiting campaign contributions from corporations, unions, and individuals? Y - Yes Yes, I support limiting campaign contributions from corporations, and unions. This is to ensure that our political system remains a fair representation of the people�s will, rather than being disproportionately influenced by those with greater financial resources. Limiting these contributions can help level the playing field and ensure that all candidates have a fair chance to present their ideas, regardless of their financial backing. b) Do you support the use of an independent or bipartisan commission for redistricting? Y - Yes Yes, I support the use of an independent or bipartisan commission for redistricting to prevent gerrymandering and promote fair electoral practices. This method helps ensure that electoral districts are drawn without political bias, thereby protecting the integrity of our electoral process and ensuring that every vote counts equally. c) Do you support requiring a government-issued photo identification in order to vote at the polls? Y - Yes Yes, I support requiring a government-issued photo identification to vote at the polls. This measure can help safeguard the integrity of our elections by ensuring that every voter is properly identified at the polls, reducing the potential for voter fraud while maintaining the accessibility of voting for all eligible citizens. d) Do you support automatic voter registration? N - No No, I do not support automatic voter registration. I believe that individuals must actively prove their residency and eligibility to vote in the state. This approach ensures that our voter registration rolls are accurate and that only eligible voters are registered, thereby upholding the integrity of our electoral process. e) Do you support the implementation of ranked choice voting in Colorado? N - No No, I do not support the implementation of ranked choice voting in Colorado. While I appreciate the intent to diversify electoral outcomes and potentially increase voter engagement, I am concerned that ranked choice voting could complicate the voting process, potentially leading to greater voter confusion and decreased participation. Other or Expanded Principles I believe in creating a political environment where debates, transparency, and equal opportunities for all candidates are prioritized. My commitment is to reforms that enhance democratic processes, ensuring that elections are fair, accessible, and representative of the people�s voice. It�s crucial that our electoral systems uphold the principles of democracy without imposing unnecessary complexities that could deter voter participation.

Guns

No		a) Do you generally support gun-control legislation (e.g. red flag laws, closing the boyfriend loophole)?
Yes		b) Should background checks be required on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows?
Yes		c) Do you support the right to concealed carry in Colorado?
No		d) Do you support levying a 6.5% excise tax on the manufacture and sale of firearms and ammunition to be imposed on firearms dealers, manufacturers, and ammunition vendors?
a) Do you generally support gun-control legislation (e.g. red flag laws, closing the boyfriend loophole)? N - No No, I do not generally support additional gun-control legislation such as red flag laws or closing the boyfriend loophole. I believe these measures can infringe upon the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens. Ensuring the safety of our communities must be balanced with the constitutional right to bear arms, and any legislation must respect the freedoms guaranteed by the Second Amendment. b) Should background checks be required on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows? Y - Yes Yes, I support requiring background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows. This measure aims to ensure that firearms do not fall into the hands of individuals legally prohibited from owning them, thus enhancing public safety while respecting the rights of responsible gun owners. c) Do you support the right to concealed carry in Colorado? Y - Yes Yes, I fully support the right to concealed carry in Colorado. Law-abiding citizens have the right to protect themselves and their property. Concealed carry is a vital component of this right, allowing individuals to defend themselves while adhering to legal standards and training requirements. d) Do you support levying a 6.5% excise tax on the manufacture and sale of firearms and ammunition to be imposed on firearms dealers, manufacturers, and ammunition vendors? N - No No, I do not support levying a 6.5% excise tax on the manufacture and sale of firearms and ammunition. Such a tax could unfairly burden gun dealers, manufacturers, and consumers, particularly those who rely on firearms for personal safety and lawful pursuits. This could also be seen as a punitive measure against the constitutional right to bear arms. Other or Expanded Principles My stance on firearms legislation is guided by a firm belief in constitutional rights and the principles of freedom and personal safety. While I support sensible measures that enhance safety and ensure that guns are kept out of the hands of those who pose a danger to society, these measures must not infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens. The focus should be on enforcing existing laws effectively and responsibly rather than imposing new restrictions that could compromise our constitutional freedoms.

Health Care

Yes		a) Should the state government increase funding for treatment facilities to combat opioid abuse?
No		b) Do you support a government-run (e.g. single-payer) healthcare program such as Medicare-for-All?
Yes		c) Should an individual have the right to choose to die (e.g. those with a terminal illness) through euthanasia?
No		d) Do you support mandating vaccinations (e.g. for school or employment)?
No		e) Do you support expanding paid family AND/OR medical leave benefits (e.g. maternity leave)?
No		f) Should the government be able to regulate the cost of prescription drugs?
a) Should the state government increase funding for treatment facilities to combat opioid abuse? Y - Yes --Yes, I support increasing state funding for treatment facilities to combat opioid abuse. While I advocate for minimal government involvement in personal health decisions, addressing this epidemic effectively requires targeted support. This approach aligns with the government's role to protect life by providing essential services that help individuals overcome addiction and restore their health and liberty. b) Do you support a government-run (e.g., single-payer) healthcare program such as Medicare-for-All? N - No, I do not support a government-run healthcare program like Medicare-for-All. I believe in preserving individual freedom of choice in healthcare and encourage market-driven solutions that increase quality and reduce costs. Government-run systems often lead to inefficiencies and reduced patient choice, which are contrary to the principles of liberty and personal autonomy. c) Should an individual have the right to choose to die (e.g., those with a terminal illness) through euthanasia? Y - Yes, I support the right of individuals with terminal illnesses to choose euthanasia. This decision aligns with my belief in personal liberty and the right to decide one's own medical care, especially in end-of-life situations. It is a deeply personal choice that should be made by the individual, respecting their freedom and dignity. d) Do you support mandating vaccinations (e.g., for school or employment)? N - No, I do not support mandating vaccinations for school or employment. While vaccinations can play a critical role in public health, mandating them infringes on individual liberty and health freedom. Education and voluntary compliance are more effective in promoting public health without compromising personal rights. e) Do you support expanding paid family AND/OR medical leave benefits (e.g., maternity leave)? N - No, I do not support expanding paid family or medical leave benefits. While these policies are well-intentioned, mandating them can place undue burdens on businesses and infringe on economic freedom. Instead, I support policies that encourage businesses to voluntarily offer these benefits based on market demand and individual business capabilities. f) Should the government be able to regulate the cost of prescription drugs? N - No, I do not believe the government should regulate the cost of prescription drugs. Price controls can stifle innovation and reduce the availability of crucial medications. A better approach is to foster competition and transparency in the pharmaceutical industry, which can naturally lead to lower prices and better access. Other or Expanded Principles My approach to healthcare is grounded in the principles of liberty and minimal government intervention. I believe that the best solutions arise from personal choice and free-market competition, not from increased government regulation. By supporting policies that enhance individual freedom and responsibility, we can achieve a healthcare system that is both effective and respectful of personal rights.

Social Policy

No		a) Do you support inclusion of sexual orientation in Colorado's anti-discrimination laws?
No		b) Do you support the inclusion of gender identity in Colorado's anti-discrimination laws?
Yes		c) Do you support greater efforts by Colorado's state government in closing gender, racial, and other wage gaps?
No		d) Do you support removing the provision in the Colorado state Constitution banning same-sex marriage?
a) Do you support inclusion of sexual orientation in Colorado's anti-discrimination laws? N - No I believe in treating all individuals with dignity and respect; however, I do not support the inclusion of sexual orientation as a specific category in Colorado's anti-discrimination laws. My stance is based on traditional values and the belief that expanding these laws can sometimes lead to conflicts with religious freedoms and rights of conscience. b) Do you support the inclusion of gender identity in Colorado's anti-discrimination laws? N - No Consistent with my traditional values, I do not support the specific inclusion of gender identity in Colorado's anti-discrimination laws. While all individuals deserve respect and protection under the law, such specific inclusions can create conflicts with established freedoms, including those related to religious practice and expression. c) Do you support greater efforts by Colorado's state government in closing gender, racial, and other wage gaps? Y - Yes While maintaining my traditional perspectives, I support fair treatment in employment and wage parity across all groups. Efforts to ensure fair wages should focus on merit and qualifications, regardless of gender or race, promoting equality of opportunity rather than enforcing equality of outcome." d) Do you support removing the provision in the Colorado state Constitution banning same-sex marriage? N - No Based on my adherence to traditional Catholic doctrine and longstanding constitutional principles, I do not support removing the provision that bans same-sex marriage in the Colorado state Constitution. I believe in upholding traditional definitions of marriage, which are foundational to both my religious beliefs and historical legal frameworks. Other or Expanded Principles My approach to social policy is guided by a commitment to uphold traditional values while ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and justice under the law. I advocate for policies that respect the freedoms and rights of all citizens, including religious liberty and freedom of conscience, and believe that the government's role should not extend to redefining societal institutions or encroaching on religious beliefs.

Legislative Priorities

As a dedicated advocate for legislative integrity and constitutional principles, my legislative priorities if elected are focused on strengthening parental rights, reforming tax policy, and safeguarding the sanctity of life. Parental Rights Bill: One of my top priorities is the enactment of a Parental Rights Bill. This legislation will empower parents as the primary educators and decision-makers in their children's lives. It will secure parents' rights to oversee their child?s education and healthcare, ensuring they have access to and control over the educational materials and health decisions affecting their children. This initiative recognizes that parental involvement is crucial in fostering an environment that upholds the well-being and best interests of children. The bill will be structured to utilize existing frameworks without requiring additional funding, focusing instead on policy realignment to better protect and prioritize parental rights within our educational and healthcare systems. Fiscal Reform: Abolishing Federal Income Tax and Introducing a State Tax Cap: Fiscal responsibility is essential for economic freedom and prosperity. I propose advocating for the abolition of the federal income tax and setting a 10% cap on all state taxes. This bold move is designed to allow citizens to keep more of their hard-earned money, fostering greater economic growth and independence. The reduction in tax revenue will be offset by streamlining government operations and reducing wasteful spending. This will involve rigorous financial audits and reallocation of resources to ensure efficiency and prioritization of essential services, thereby maintaining financial stability without additional funding needs. Life and Legislative Integrity: Additionally, I am committed to repealing overreaching laws from previous sessions, including those that expand abortion rights beyond what traditional values and respect for life can bear. I will push for legislation that defines the fetus legally as a life deserving of protection, challenging current interpretations and promoting a culture that values life at all stages. This effort will not only involve legislative advocacy but also educational initiatives to foster a greater societal respect for life. Resources for these educational campaigns will be reallocated from existing public health budgets, ensuring a cost-effective yet impactful approach. Ensuring Legislative Integrity: All these measures reflect a commitment to restoring and respecting the fundamental rights of citizens while ensuring government actions are transparent, accountable, and aligned with the values of those we serve. Each legislative effort will be pursued with the aim of reinforcing the state's duty to protect life, liberty, and property, without imposing unnecessary burdens on the people. In summary, my tenure would focus on enhancing the role of families in education and healthcare, reforming tax laws to foster economic independence, and defending the intrinsic value of life through thoughtful legislation. These priorities are designed to not only uphold but also strengthen the fabric of our community by ensuring that our laws reflect a profound respect for personal freedoms and constitutional principles.

Meet Civic Sage

You can ask about:

Marla Fernandez's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Key

Colorado State Legislative Election 2024 Political Courage Test