Candidate for
Member; California State Assembly; District 1

I believe as did the late Senator Hubert Humphrey that "the moral test of government is how it treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the aged; and those who are in the shadows of life, the sick, the needy, and the handicapped."

The needs of the 1st Assembly District cross so many arenas from education to the environment to health care and everything in between.

Over the last several months I've spoken to dozens of teachers throughout the district to get a better understanding of what's needed in our schools. Some forty years ago, California was number 1 in education, and we need to be again. I look forward to being part of making that a reality.

In the 1st Assembly District, you simply cannot separate the environment from our economy since so much of our industry is tied to our natural resources. Tourism is a big part of our economy on the North Coast largely because our environment is so desirable. I've lived in Humboldt County for almost 30 years because I love this part of the country and what is has to offer. From the rugged coast to the breathtaking mountains to the irrepressible redwoods, this is my home and I plan to do everything I can to help maintain the beauty and wonder that has held me here for so long.

I've been saying out there on the campaign trail "people are what this election is all about." It's about health care, decent wages, affordable housing and infrastructure. It's about clean air, clean water, and retaining our beautiful coastline. It's about quality education and affordable child care options. It's about finding the balance that allows us to protect and enhance the quality of life we enjoy on the North Coast. Please be assured, that is not just a campaign slogan. I believe it with all my heart and if I am honored to serve in Sacramento, you can expect no less from me than to hold true to that belief.