Candidate for
United States Representative; District 52; Democratic Party

I am running for Congress to give a voice to the many people in this community whose voices are not being represented. A 25-year resident of East County and proud member of a military family, I understand the needs of people in the 52nd Congressional district. I have devoted my life to public service and raised five children in this district, along with my husband, Dr. Richard O. Butcher, a former Naval officer and Viet Nam veteran who now serves low-income families in his medical practice.

After my fifth child was born, I earned a law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law. I worked in our court system and have the legal background to understand the complexities of legislation. I also hold a degree in Special Education from California State University, Los Angeles. I have taught business and political science at two local community colleges and also served as an instructor at the California School for the Deaf.

I bring local, national and international leadership skills to this race.

I was a long-time member and chair of the El Cajon Planning Commission, a member of the California Regional Water Quality Board and the County of San Diego Human Relations Commission, and held other government positions. Leadership roles in civic organizations also include World Affairs Council president, president of the El Cajon Breakfast Rotary, member of the YMCA Executive Board, and member of the Granite Hills Athletics Association.

My experiences leading medical organizations, including the National Medical Association Auxiliary, and serving as a US Food and Drug Administration panelist on medical issues, give me authority to be a leading voice in support of universal healthcare for all Americans.

I grew up in my family's neighborhood grocery business and I've owned small businesses myself. I understand the needs of the business community, while also supporting the needs and rights of working people. I also organized eleven international trade and business conferences.

In my current position as executive director of nonprofit Water for Children Africa I have met with world leaders and led successful international efforts to bring water and medical supplies to people in fifteen nations.

For these efforts, I have been honored to receive awards such as the March of Dimes Mother of the Year Award, the NAACP Humanitarian Award, and a Medaille d' Excellence from the United Nations.

I am the only candidate with national, international and local leadership skills in many fields, assuring that I have the leadership experience needed to address the many complex issues facing our nation. will also apply my leadership skills to create new opportunities for all Americans, our children and our grandchildren.

View my complete bio at: http://www.votevickiebutcher.com/bio.html