Vote Smart - Facts For All

Abortion and Reproductive Health

Pro-choice		a) Do you generally support pro-choice or pro-life legislation?
Yes		b) Do you support legalizing abortion when the pregnancy resulted from incest or rape?
No		c) Do you support the prohibition of public funds (e.g. Medicaid) for organizations that perform abortions?
I do not support the prohibition of public funds, such as Medicaid, for organizations that perform abortions. Restrictions like these can have significant, negative consequences for individuals who rely on these organizations for a wide range of healthcare services, many of which go beyond abortion. They provide essential care like cancer screenings, birth control, and STI testing, which would become less accessible, especially to those in underserved communities. This issue is personal for me. I experienced an ectopic pregnancy, but at first, we didn�t know it was ectopic. My numbers were dropping, and we assumed I was having a miscarriage. After a week of waiting, I knew it was time to move on and sought medical intervention. If I had been forced to wait, as some states� current 6-week abortion bans would require, I may not be here today. When I went in for a D&C, they found nothing in my uterus. That�s when we realized the pregnancy was ectopic, and I was bleeding internally. Without timely access to care, the outcome could have been fatal. When public funding is restricted for organizations that perform abortions, it disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, including low-income women, women of color, and rural residents. Many rely on Medicaid and similar programs for affordable healthcare, and limiting their options can lead to delayed care�or no care at all. These restrictions don�t just affect abortion services but hinder access to the full spectrum of reproductive healthcare. It�s also important to recognize that federal law already prohibits Medicaid funds from being used for abortions except in limited cases, like rape, incest, or life endangerment (Hyde Amendment). The notion that public funds are regularly used for abortions is misleading. These restrictions ultimately harm individuals seeking preventive care and essential services that organizations like Planned Parenthood provide. Restricting public funding would also strain other healthcare facilities. Many community health centers are already overwhelmed and underfunded, and they often lack the capacity to provide comprehensive reproductive healthcare. Prohibiting funding would only deepen healthcare disparities, further limiting access for those most in need. Rather than restricting public funds, we should focus on expanding access to comprehensive healthcare, including reproductive health and family planning. Supporting organizations that provide a wide range of services, regardless of whether they perform abortions, ensures more people can get the care they need when they need it. My personal experience showed me how critical access to timely medical intervention is, and it�s a reminder of why comprehensive reproductive healthcare must remain accessible. I oppose prohibiting public funds for organizations that perform abortions. These restrictions unnecessarily limit access to essential care, disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, and could lead to preventable tragedies. Public funds should support comprehensive healthcare services to ensure that every individual, regardless of income or circumstances, has access to the care they need�because timely, quality care can be life-saving.

Budget, Spending, and Taxes

No		a) In order to balance the budget, do you support limiting state government spending on social programs (e.g. SNAP, TANF)?
No		b) Do you support a decrease in income taxes in order to promote economic growth?
Yes		c) Do you support a wealth tax in order to pay for public programs in your state?
(a) I do not support limiting state government spending on social programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) to balance the budget. These programs provide critical support to Utah�s most vulnerable populations, including low-income families, children, and the elderly. Cutting funding for these programs would only exacerbate economic inequality and leave many families without the resources they need to survive. Instead of reducing spending on social safety nets, I believe we should focus on more effective ways to manage the budget, such as eliminating wasteful spending and exploring new revenue streams. Social programs are an investment in our people, and when individuals have access to food, healthcare, and other essential services, they are better equipped to contribute to society and the economy. (b) While tax cuts are often seen as a way to promote economic growth, I do not support a broad decrease in income taxes, especially if it disproportionately benefits the wealthy at the expense of public services. Income taxes are a crucial revenue source for funding education, infrastructure, and healthcare, which are all essential to Utah�s long-term economic health. A better approach would be to focus on targeted tax relief for working families and small businesses, ensuring that tax policies are fair and benefit those who need them most. Economic growth isn�t just about cutting taxes�it�s about investing in our workforce, education system, and critical infrastructure. These investments lead to more sustainable growth and prosperity for all Utahns, not just the wealthiest among us. (c) I do support the idea of a wealth tax to help fund public programs in Utah, particularly those that address economic inequality, education, and healthcare. A wealth tax would ensure that those who have benefited the most from our economic system contribute their fair share to support the public services that make our society function. It�s not about punishing success; it�s about ensuring that our state has the resources it needs to provide opportunities for everyone, not just those at the top. By using a wealth tax to fund critical services like education and healthcare, we can make sure that every Utahn has the chance to succeed, regardless of their background or income level. Balancing the state budget should not come at the cost of social programs that support Utah�s most vulnerable populations. I believe we should protect these programs while exploring other ways to manage the budget effectively. Decreasing income taxes may seem like a quick fix for economic growth, but without careful consideration, it could undermine the public services that help drive long-term prosperity. Finally, I support the implementation of a wealth tax to ensure that everyone, especially those who have benefited most from our economy, contributes to the public good. These policies are about fairness and investing in a future where all Utahns have the opportunity to thrive.

Crime and Public Safety

No		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?
No		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) I do not support the use of capital punishment for violent crimes. There are significant concerns surrounding its fairness, with evidence showing that it disproportionately affects marginalized groups and those with inadequate legal representation. Additionally, mistakes in the judicial system can lead to wrongful executions, a risk that is too great to ignore. Life without parole is a more humane and equally effective alternative that avoids the irreversible consequences of capital punishment while still holding individuals accountable for their actions. (b) I do not support automatically prosecuting individuals under 18 as adults for violent crimes. Juveniles should be held accountable for their actions, but the juvenile justice system exists to recognize that young people are still developing, and it focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Each case should be assessed on its specific circumstances, considering factors like the individual�s background, intent, and capacity for rehabilitation. Automatically treating minors as adults overlooks the potential for growth and change and can have long-lasting negative impacts on their futures. (c) I do not support the enforcement of federal immigration laws by state and local police. Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, and involving state and local authorities can create mistrust between law enforcement and immigrant communities. When individuals fear that interactions with police could lead to deportation, they are less likely to report crimes or cooperate with investigations, making communities less safe. Local law enforcement should focus on public safety, not immigration enforcement. (d) I do not support the use of private prisons. The profit-driven nature of private prisons often leads to cost-cutting measures that result in inadequate conditions and poor treatment for inmates. Additionally, the financial incentive to keep prisons full can lead to policies that prioritize incarceration over rehabilitation. The criminal justice system should focus on rehabilitation, accountability, and reducing recidivism, rather than generating profit. Public prisons, while not without their own challenges, offer more accountability and should be the standard. (e) I do not support mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent drug offenders. These sentences remove judicial discretion, often leading to disproportionately harsh punishments that do not fit the individual circumstances of each case. Mandatory minimums contribute to overcrowded prisons and do little to address the root causes of drug-related offenses. Instead, we should focus on rehabilitation, treatment programs, and alternatives to incarceration that aim to reduce drug use and recidivism, ultimately benefiting both individuals and society. I believe our criminal justice system should prioritize fairness, rehabilitation, and accountability. Capital punishment, prosecuting minors as adults, and mandatory minimum sentences do not align with these values. Additionally, private prisons and state-level enforcement of federal immigration laws undermine public trust and the integrity of the justice system. Reforming these areas is critical to building a more just, equitable system that serves everyone.

Economy

Yes		a) Do you support state government spending as a means of promoting economic growth (e.g. grants, tax incentives)?
No		b) Do you support reducing state government regulations on the private sector (e.g. for business or the environment)?
Yes		c) Do you support an increase of the minimum wage in Utah?
Yes		d) Do you support government spending on affordable housing projects in Utah?
I support state government spending as a means of promoting economic growth, particularly through grants and tax incentives that are targeted and responsible. Strategic investment in key industries like technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure can stimulate job creation, attract businesses, and foster innovation. Tax incentives, when structured carefully, can also be beneficial, especially for small businesses and startups that drive economic growth but may struggle with initial capital. However, I believe these incentives should be transparent and performance-based to ensure they deliver long-term benefits to the state rather than merely providing short-term financial breaks to large corporations. I believe in balancing smart regulations that protect the public and the environment with the need to foster a competitive business environment. Reducing state government regulations in a blanket manner, especially for critical areas like environmental protections, could be harmful in the long run. I support streamlining or reforming regulations that may be overly burdensome or outdated, but I do not support weakening regulations that protect public health, safety, and the environment. Regulatory reform should aim to make compliance simpler and more efficient without compromising the well-being of Utah�s residents or natural resources. Yes, I support an increase in the minimum wage in Utah. The current wage does not reflect the rising cost of living, especially in areas like housing, healthcare, and education. Many working families are struggling to make ends meet despite holding full-time jobs. Increasing the minimum wage would help lift many individuals out of poverty, reduce reliance on social services, and boost the local economy by giving people more disposable income. However, the increase should be phased in gradually and be paired with support for small businesses to ensure they can adapt to the change without facing undue financial strain. I strongly support government spending on affordable housing projects in Utah. The housing crisis in our state is pushing many working families and young people out of the neighborhoods they grew up in. As housing prices continue to rise, government intervention is necessary to ensure that there are affordable options available for all residents. Public spending can help fund the development of affordable housing units, support low-income families through housing assistance programs, and promote responsible urban planning. Additionally, investing in affordable housing contributes to long-term economic stability by reducing homelessness and helping individuals secure stable living conditions that enable them to contribute productively to society. I believe that strategic state government spending, smart regulation, and thoughtful wage and housing policies are key to building a stronger, more resilient economy in Utah. By investing in areas like affordable housing and increasing the minimum wage, we can create an environment where businesses can thrive, and all Utahns have the opportunity to succeed. Balancing economic growth with protections for the public and environment will ensure that we are fostering sustainable, inclusive progress for everyone.

Education

No		a) Do you support adopting federal education standards (e.g. Common Core) in Utah?
Yes		b) Do you support state funding for charter schools?
Yes		c) Do you support increasing teacher salaries AND/OR benefits in Utah?
Yes		d) Should immigrants in the United States who graduate from Utah high schools be eligible for in-state tuition at public universities, regardless of immigration status?
No		e) Do you support the removal of a constitutional feature that limits the spending of state income taxes to only public and higher education?
I do not support a one-size-fits-all approach like adopting federal education standards such as Common Core. While federal standards can provide a useful framework, I believe Utah�s education system should be tailored to the unique needs of our students, communities, and workforce. Local control allows for greater flexibility, ensuring that the curriculum is responsive to the needs of Utah�s students and reflective of our values. I believe Utah educators and policymakers are best positioned to set education standards that work for our state. Yes, I support state funding for charter schools, but with careful oversight to ensure they complement�not compete with�public schools. Charter schools can offer innovative approaches to education and provide families with additional choices, but they must be held accountable to the same standards as public schools. The state should ensure that charter schools are transparent about their finances and outcomes, and that funding does not come at the expense of traditional public schools. Both systems should work together to ensure that all students receive a high-quality education. Absolutely, I support increasing teacher salaries and/or benefits in Utah. Teachers are the backbone of our education system, yet many are overworked and underpaid. Increasing their compensation will help attract and retain talented educators, improve morale, and ultimately lead to better outcomes for students. Teachers deserve to be compensated fairly for their essential role in shaping Utah�s future, and competitive salaries and benefits are key to building a strong, effective education system. Yes, I support allowing immigrants who graduate from Utah high schools to be eligible for in-state tuition at public universities, regardless of immigration status. These students are part of our communities and have grown up in Utah, attending our schools and contributing to our society. Providing them with access to in-state tuition allows them to further their education and become productive members of the workforce, which benefits the entire state. Denying them this opportunity based on immigration status would be counterproductive and a loss for Utah�s future. No, I do not support removing the constitutional provision that limits the use of state income tax revenues to only public and higher education. This provision ensures that education remains a top funding priority in Utah. Our schools and universities are already facing significant challenges, and removing this limitation could result in even less funding for these critical institutions. Education is the foundation of a strong society, and we must ensure that it continues to receive dedicated funding to prepare our children and young adults for the future. I believe that education is a critical investment in Utah�s future. We must prioritize policies that support teachers, expand opportunities for all students, and ensure adequate funding for our schools. Tailoring our educational standards to meet the specific needs of Utah while supporting both public and charter schools, investing in teachers, and providing equitable opportunities for all students, including immigrant graduates, are key to ensuring a strong, vibrant education system.

Energy and Environment

Yes		a) Do you support state funding for the development of renewable energy (e.g. solar, wind, geo-thermal)?
No		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?
Yes, I support state funding for the development of renewable energy, such as solar, wind, and geothermal. Investing in renewable energy helps create jobs, reduces our dependence on fossil fuels, and positions Utah as a leader in sustainable energy. By funding these initiatives, we can promote long-term economic growth while addressing the pressing need to reduce our environmental impact. I do not support allowing permits for drilling on public lands. Public lands are valuable resources that should be preserved for future generations and for public use, including recreation, conservation, and tourism. Drilling on these lands can have long-term environmental consequences, from habitat destruction to pollution. Instead, we should focus on promoting renewable energy and protecting our natural landscapes. Yes, I strongly support increasing state funding for clean drinking water initiatives. Access to clean, safe drinking water is a basic human right, and with Utah facing ongoing water scarcity issues, it�s more important than ever to invest in sustainable water management and infrastructure. These initiatives help ensure that all Utahns, regardless of where they live, have reliable access to clean water, while also addressing long-term water conservation challenges.

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?
Yes		d) Do you support automatic voter registration?
Yes		e) Do you support the implementation of ranked choice voting in Utah?
Yes, I support limiting campaign contributions from corporations, unions, and individuals. Large contributions can lead to undue influence in politics, undermining the voices of everyday voters. Caps on contributions help ensure fairness and reduce the potential for corruption. Yes, I support the use of an independent or bipartisan commission for redistricting. This ensures that electoral boundaries are drawn fairly, without partisan gerrymandering, and that all communities are represented equitably in the political process. I support requiring a government-issued photo ID to vote, but only if steps are taken to ensure that all eligible voters can easily obtain an ID. Voter ID laws should not create unnecessary barriers to voting, especially for marginalized communities. Yes, I support automatic voter registration. This would simplify the process for eligible citizens to participate in elections and help increase voter turnout, making our democracy more inclusive and accessible. I support implementing ranked choice voting in Utah. It allows voters to rank candidates by preference, ensuring that the winner has broader support. Ranked choice voting can reduce polarization, encourage more positive campaigning, and give voters more choice.

Guns

Yes		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 Utah?
Yes, I generally support gun-control legislation, including red flag laws and closing the boyfriend loophole. These measures help prevent guns from falling into the hands of individuals who pose a danger to themselves or others, enhancing public safety while still respecting responsible gun ownership. Yes, I believe background checks should be required for gun sales between private citizens at gun shows. This would help close loopholes that allow individuals to bypass safety measures and ensure that firearms are only sold to those who can legally own them. I support the right to concealed carry in Utah for responsible, law-abiding individuals. However, I believe it�s essential that gun owners undergo proper training and background checks to ensure public safety while preserving the rights of responsible gun owners.

Health Care

Yes		a) Should the state government increase funding for treatment facilities to combat opioid abuse?
Yes		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?
Yes		d) Do you support mandating vaccinations (e.g. for school or employment)?
Yes		e) Do you support expanding paid family AND/OR medical leave benefits (e.g. maternity leave)?
Yes		f) Should the government be able to regulate the cost of prescription drugs?
Yes, the state government should increase funding for treatment facilities to combat opioid abuse. Expanding access to treatment and recovery programs is essential to addressing the opioid crisis and providing individuals with the support they need to recover and lead healthy lives. While I support expanding access to affordable healthcare, I believe we should explore a variety of options to improve the current system rather than immediately transitioning to a single-payer model. I support policies that reduce healthcare costs, expand coverage, and ensure access to care for all, while protecting patient choice. Yes, I support allowing individuals with a terminal illness the right to choose euthanasia under strict safeguards. It is a deeply personal decision, and individuals facing terminal conditions should have the option to end their suffering in a dignified manner, if they choose. I support vaccinations to protect public health, particularly in schools and workplaces where the spread of disease can have serious consequences. However, I also understand the concerns many parents have about vaccination schedules, having personally chosen to spread out vaccines for my own children. It�s important to maintain public safety while respecting individual Yes, I support expanding paid family and medical leave benefits, including maternity leave. These benefits are essential for supporting families, ensuring that individuals can care for their loved ones or recover from illness without jeopardizing their financial security. Yes, I support allowing the government to regulate the cost of prescription drugs. The rising cost of medications is a burden on many families, and government intervention can help ensure that life-saving drugs are accessible and affordable for all, without excessive price-gouging by pharmaceutical companies. I believe in policies that prioritize public health, fairness, and access to essential care and services. Expanding healthcare access, providing support for opioid addiction recovery, and allowing individuals to make personal decisions about their own health are all critical components of a just and compassionate society. Additionally, paid family and medical leave, vaccination mandates, and drug cost regulation ensure that individuals and families can thrive without facing insurmountable financial or health-related barriers.

Social Policy

Yes		a) Do you support inclusion of sexual orientation in Utah's anti-discrimination laws?
Yes		b) Do you support the inclusion of gender identity in Utah's anti-discrimination laws?
Yes		c) Do you support greater efforts by Utah's state government in closing gender, racial, and other wage gaps?
No		d) Do you support the prohibition of transgender individuals from using bathrooms that do not correspond to their sex assigned at birth?
Yes, I support the inclusion of sexual orientation in Utah's anti-discrimination laws. Everyone should be protected from discrimination, regardless of their sexual orientation, ensuring equal opportunities in employment, housing, and public services. Yes, I support the inclusion of gender identity in Utah's anti-discrimination laws. Protecting individuals from discrimination based on their gender identity is essential to ensuring that everyone can live and work free from prejudice and bias. Yes, I support greater efforts by Utah�s state government to close gender, racial, and other wage gaps. Everyone deserves equal pay for equal work, and addressing these gaps is crucial for creating a fair and equitable society. We need policies that promote transparency and enforce equal pay standards. No, I do not support prohibiting transgender individuals from using bathrooms that align with their gender identity. Such laws create unnecessary barriers and discrimination, and transgender individuals should be allowed to use the facilities that correspond with their gender identity in a respectful and safe manner. I believe in fostering a fair, inclusive society where people are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or background. Expanding anti-discrimination protections and addressing wage inequality are important steps in creating a more just and equitable Utah for everyone.

Legislative Priorities

My top priorities are: Affordable housing, Education, and Public Safety. Each of these issues is critical to Utah�s future, and addressing them requires both innovative solutions and practical approaches to funding. 1. Housing costs in Utah have skyrocketed, pushing many families out of the communities they�ve long called home. My priority is to work on policies that incentivize affordable housing development while also preserving existing affordable housing. This includes reforming zoning laws to allow for more diverse housing options, such as townhomes and multi-family units. To fund these initiatives, I would support a combination of state grants and public-private partnerships to encourage responsible development. Additionally, using federal housing funds and tax credits for developers who prioritize affordable housing can be an effective way to expand housing options without relying solely on state budgets. 2. Utah�s education system must be strengthened to ensure all students receive a high-quality education, regardless of where they live. I will advocate for increased funding for schools, particularly in underserved areas, to ensure teachers have the resources they need and students have access to updated materials and technology. I also support increasing teacher salaries to attract and retain talented educators. Funding for these efforts can come from reforming the way education funds are allocated within the state, making sure that our income tax revenues continue to be directed toward public education. Additionally, advocating for a portion of surplus state revenue to be earmarked for educational improvements can provide long-term, sustainable funding. 3. Ensuring our communities are safe is a top priority, and that starts with properly supporting our first responders. I will work to provide police, firefighters, and EMS personnel with the training and resources they need, including updated equipment and access to mental health services. Additionally, I will advocate for adjustments to first responders' retirement plans to better align with the realities they face after a career of service. The physical and emotional toll of their work often leads to early retirements, and their benefits should reflect that reality. Many first responders face unique challenges in retirement due to the high-stress nature of their jobs, and their pension systems must be adjusted accordingly. By exploring funding sources such as reallocating existing public safety budgets, federal grants, and collaboration between local and state governments, we can ensure their retirement benefits meet their needs without overextending state resources. To recap: My top priorities�affordable housing, education, and public safety�are all interconnected and require careful planning and sustainable funding. By advocating for smart policy reforms, tapping into federal resources, and ensuring efficient use of state funds, I believe we can address these challenges in a way that supports Utah�s long-term growth and success without putting undue strain on taxpayers. These priorities reflect my commitment to building a Utah where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

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