Maryland House of Delegates District 43A

A: We took necessary steps two sessions ago to both raise revenues and make cuts in order to close the structural deficit, which we successfully did. We will have similar conversations in the next budget cycle. We also need to address Highway User Revenues for Baltimore City and declining Transportation Trust Fund revenues.

A: Ensuring that we have a reliable supply of clean and affordable energy.

Protecting Maryland from Trump’s actions, from healthcare to immigration enforcement to tax cuts for corporations. Creating a transit system in the Baltimore region that we can be proud of.

A: We took steps this past session to reduce energy costs, protect consumers from predatory business practices and shore up health insurance, and will continue to pursue those goals. We also have more work to do to increase the supply of housing, ensuring affordable choices.

A: Supporting children’s health and education must continue to be our priority. While we should always be ready to make adjustments to improve outcomes, funding the Blueprint in the way that ensures progress has to be our goal.

A: I hope my constituents will look at my record of sponsoring and supporting bills to make energy more affordable, protect consumers, support victims of domestic violence and trafficking, protect Marylanders from unlawful ICE actions, and reform the parole system.

A: This year’s legislature managed to pass a balanced budget with no increase in fees or taxes. However, it is a fair statement that the state sales tax has not increased in two decades. The last time was January 2007. Since then, there have been increases in cost. Considering the financial cuts from the federal government and the increase in costs, the state can 1) work on revenue generation that includes attracting businesses and industries that align with Maryland’s current workforce, infrastructure, and policies (large-scale and high-growth), and 2) continue to enhance the efficiencies of programs and services that yield the greatest outcomes, and cutting those that do not.

A: The three most pressing issues facing Maryland center on affordability: housing, healthcare, and the cost of living.

A: To lower the cost of living, I would consider a couple of approaches. First, I would consider the cost of living per county and work with local government to create a localized economy of scale considering living wages that match the average wage per county. Second, I would address poverty, which is multifaceted and complex: continuing to streamline the processes that will allow for more housing that is affordable and ensure we continue providing social programs that support and stabilize residents. Third, continuing, as we have in Maryland, supporting families with childcare vouchers. Fourth, continuing to ensure residents have access to healthcare. Fifth, create circular markets in Maryland. Sixth, continue working on more energy generation in the state to continue driving down the cost of utilities.

A: Maryland needs to increase revenues to continue supporting the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The plan is working and your students are greatly improving. To have a competitive workforce, we must have a world-class, high-quality educational program for our students. Our students are the next generation of professionals that will be leading our state, our country, and the world.

A: Besides my election, I would like my constituents to review my job performance by the work done during the 90-day session (collectively with the General Assembly and individually) as well as the work that is done outside of session. I would like to be reviewed based on responsiveness, constituent services, delegate scholarship awards, the funding that is brought back to the district for capital projects, the community meetings and events attended, accessibility to the community, and general support. The job is year-round work that I proudly do and would like the opportunity to do for another four years.