Maryland House of Delegates District 16

A: Maryland has faced a future year shortfall in almost every year I have been in the General Assembly, except during COVID where significant federal dollars were available. Each year, we balance the budget and most years that is done almost exclusively through budget cuts. In some years, when it does not make sense to do everything via cuts, we have had to look at taxes or other revenue. But that is usually in concert with budget reductions. I think we need a balanced approach where we use all of the tools in the toolbox and do not simply say “no taxes” or “no cuts.” As a former member of the Appropriations Committee, I have been a part of these efforts to go line-by-line through the budget and make cuts where necessary, including to sacred cows such as education and healthcare.

A: What is happening in Washington, DC presents a huge challenge to Maryland because of its impact on our local economy. Our economy was not strong enough to begin win, but adding a wholesale attack from within on the federal government is incredibly destabilizing. Responding to what this president is doing to people and our economy is our most pressing issue.

At the same time, affordability is a broader challenge than just this president and is affecting the cost of utilities, groceries, housing, and more. Clearly, a pressing challenge for our state.Third and finally, even as we face those challenges--which are not entirely within our control--we need to continue to work on major efforts in the state to improve public education, support transportation and other infrastructure, and meet our environmental goals.

A: This past legislative session, I helped lead to passage the Utility RELIEF Act, major legislation to address our short, medium, and long-term energy challenges which are driving up costs. The bill is an important step but work on these challenging energy issues will need to continue in future years to try and bring down electric and other utility prices.

A: An assessment of what is working and what is not with the Blueprint is ongoing. But the answer will not be one or the other. The Blueprint represents our state investment in public education and I do not meet a lot of residents--event those unhappy with taxes--who ask us to do less for public education. We need to end or adjust the parts of the program that are not working as intended and continue to advance those that are.

A: I try to be accessible to my constituents. I knock on doors all four years of the term, will meet with anyone who asks, respond to all emails, and participate in town halls. Each of those is an opportunity to provide feedback and review the job I am doing.

A: Maryland’s structural deficit requires a balanced approach that does not increase taxes on families already struggling with the rising cost of living in our State. Instead, I support closing corporate tax loopholes to ensure big business pays its fair share without burdening working families. On the spending side, as an appropriator, I continue to evaluate whether government programs are delivering results for Marylanders. This session we made real progress on government accountability, including expanded audits and greater transparency into the effectiveness of state programs to steward tax-payer dollars.

Supporting small businesses is one of the most effective ways to strengthen Maryland’s economy and address our long term budget challenges. I am proud to have passed legislation this session (Small Business Increased Access to Capital Act) to streamline a Department of Commerce small business lending program, which both stimulates our small businesses, and ensures state funds are being used for their purpose. As those businesses grow, they create jobs, generate tax revenue, and broaden our tax base. Ultimately, the most sustainable path to closing the long-term deficit is growing Maryland’s stagnant economy because a stronger economic base generates revenue needed to fund services Marylanders rely on.

A: First, we need to protect our democracy and Marylanders from illegal actions of the Trump Administration. This session I voted for bills that enacted protections for all voters to participate in our elections, legislation that requires warrants to compel action from the State to cooperate with ICE, legislation that expands the list of sensitive locations that are off limits to federal immigration enforcement, and legislation that protects residents from unwarranted federal surveillance and misuse.

Second, we need to build a strong economy by creating work opportunities for all Marylanders (I sponsored and passed the “Workgroup for Inclusive State Workplace”), make it easier for businesses to start and grow (I sponsored and passed “Small Business Increase Access to Capital Act”), and create a thoughtful response to artificial intelligence.Third, we must create policy frameworks that prioritize the wellbeing of all residents. This means prioritizing healthy longevity for aging Marylands (I sponsored and passed “The Aging Resilience Fund”), limiting technology use by our children (I sponsored and passed “Maryland Phone-Free School Act”), third places that allow for community building and connection ( I sponsored and passed the “Village Multigenerational Third Places Act”), protecting our environment (I have requested monitoring of the Interceptor collapse).

A: Marylanders are being squeezed from every direction — housing, utilities, and everyday essentials. On housing, I sponsored the “Maryland Housing Data Transparency Act”, which requires the State to gather and share data on upcoming housing development so we can make informed policy decisions on meeting our housing and infrastructure needs. I also support expanding down payment assistance and affordable mortgage products for first-time buyers, and addressing skyrocketing construction costs. On utilities, data centers are driving up demand and pushing costs onto working families. I oppose unchecked data center development and voted in favor of a State study that will conduct an analysis of the likely environmental, energy, and economic impacts of data center development in Maryland.

As an appropriator, another way I can support District 16 is by bringing tax dollars back to the nonprofits in our district. This includes monies for the Suburban Hospital Emergency Room, Glen Echo Park, Whitman High School, Imagination Stage, sound barrier for Carderock Springs Elementary School, Morningstar Tabernacle No. 88 Moses Cemetery and Hall, Children’s Inn at NIH, culvert restoration in the C&O Canal National Historical Park, North Bethesda Metro entrance, Merrimac Neighborhood Park, National Center for Children and Families, and so many more.

A: The Blueprint is a once in a generation initiative to ensure that all children in Maryland are getting a world class education and that our teachers are appropriately compensated and supported in their profession. Building a strong education system in our state means that we are investing in our future citizens and our future workforce and we cannot lose sight of that as we navigate challenging budget years ahead. There is an incredible long-term benefit to our state for staying the course and following through on our commitments. In the near future, the legislature is expecting a comprehensive report on the Blueprint and I look forward to a thorough analysis of what is working and what isn’t working. I am committed to rolling my sleeves up and making appropriate adjustments and improvements to the Blueprint, so that the Marylanders can be assured that their tax dollars are being spent as effectively and as responsibly as possible.

A: My favorite way of getting feedback in this job is hearing one on one from constituents, whether at their door, at a community event, or through an email.

A: Closing the structural deficit will take a balanced and disciplined approach. We have to protect core investments like education, healthcare, and public safety while being realistic about long term sustainability.

On spending, I support a full review of programs to identify inefficiencies, duplication, and areas where outcomes are not being met. That includes improving procurement practices, strengthening oversight, and making sure agencies are coordinating effectively.On revenue, I support a fair and targeted approach that protects middle and working class families. That means asking those who have done the best in our economy to contribute their fair share and closing loopholes that allow corporations to avoid paying what they owe.We also need to address long term cost drivers like healthcare and housing. If we do not tackle those pressures, the budget challenges will continue. The goal is to make smart decisions now so we avoid deeper cuts later.

A: Affordability, access to opportunity, and trust in government are the most pressing issues facing Maryland.

Families are feeling squeezed by rising housing costs, childcare expenses, healthcare bills, and utility rates. If people cannot afford to live here, we risk losing the communities that make our state strong.Access to opportunity is just as critical. That includes education, workforce pathways, and the ability to build a stable future. Policies like access to in state tuition changed the course of my life, and I have worked to expand those opportunities for others.Finally, people need to trust that government is working for them. That means being transparent, responsive, and focused on delivering real results. These challenges are connected and require thoughtful, long term solutions.

A: Lowering the cost of living starts with addressing the biggest expenses families face. That means housing, childcare, healthcare, and utilities.

On housing, we need to increase supply at all income levels and strengthen protections so residents are not priced out. Expanding rental assistance and building more housing near transit and job centers are key steps.Childcare must be more affordable and accessible so families can work without facing overwhelming costs.On healthcare, we should continue focusing on transparency and cost control across the system.Utility costs are a growing burden. We need stronger oversight to ensure rate increases are justified and that consumers are not taking on unnecessary risk.We should also continue targeted tax relief for working families. The goal is to make it possible for people to stay and build their lives in Maryland.

A: We should not roll back the Blueprint. It is a long term investment in our students, our workforce, and our economy. Pulling back now would slow progress and deepen inequities.

At the same time, we need a clear and responsible plan to pay for it. I support identifying efficiencies in how the Blueprint is implemented and making sure funds are used effectively. If additional revenue is needed, it should be fair, targeted, and sustainable.Strong schools are essential to Maryland’s future. They lead to higher earnings, stronger communities, and a more competitive economy. The focus should be on following through on our commitments while managing costs responsibly.

A: Accountability should not happen only during elections. Constituents should be able to evaluate my work at any time.

First, through responsiveness. My office works every day to help residents navigate state services, and I encourage people to judge us by how we show up when they need help.Second, through transparency. I regularly share updates on legislation, votes, and priorities through newsletters and community engagement so people know what I am doing in Annapolis.Finally, through results. Constituents can look at the legislation I have passed, the issues I have taken on, and whether I am delivering on my commitments.Public service is about trust. I want residents to feel they can reach me, understand my work, and hold me accountable throughout my time in office.

A: To turn Maryland around and close the budget gap requires a different mindset. It also requires instituting efficiencies and accountability measures in every area of the State government. Unfortunately, officials are too busy opining and spending public funds to litigate national issues and neglect their responsibility to ensure the state government operates efficiently and effectively. It is unacceptable that the state government does not review or report on how public monies are spent by nonprofits receiving state grants and contracts. Utility infrastructure is another area needing immediate attention as rates rise to compensate for failed oversight. Maryland is the most expensive state for utilities, with the median household paying $546 per month in utilities, including $189 for water and sewer, $150 electric, $127 for waste and recycling, and $80 for gas. It is time for Maryland to examine its decaying water/waste utility infrastructure and make major changes. The State will not have the revenue to deliver to those who need it most if its tax base continues to shrink. Tax revenues will increase if rates are reduced by keeping high earners in the State.

A: Most pressing issues: economic competitiveness, rising taxes and utility fees, and good governance/transparency of State and local governments. I am running to advocate for LD16 residents who reside in Bethesda, Potomac and Chevy Chase and provide substantial revenue to the State and are neglected by their state legislators. Montgomery County is suffering, losing private sector jobs and taxpayers because officials have failed to address real concerns of residents and businesses. To fix the county economically requires fixing traffic congestion caused by the State’s failure to expand the American Legion Bridge, I-270 and I-495 and unnecessary bike lanes on major arteries. Montgomery County’s State Delegation is ranked at the bottom of all delegations in the State – for its votes against business. The WSSC was created by the State as a bicounty agency to serve Montgomery and Prince George’s counties more than 100 years ago, and it is overseen by both County Councils, with little transparency. It is time for General Assembly to reexamine how WSSC operates, why fees keep rising, and the schedule for replacing decaying pipes. Similarly, the legislators should examine the operations of another bicounty agency, National Parks and Planning which fails repeatedly to be responsive to residents.

A: To lower the cost of living requires political will to make some course corrections. Bloated government becomes less and less effective at helping low-income residents. In Montgomery County, more than half of its population is low income (43% FARMS rate in MCPS, plus at least 7% who are parents of low-income students or seniors on low fixed incomes). To make the county affordable requires restructuring to “right size” the government, and refocus on cost-effective strategies to help low-income residents. We should also cut taxes to stimulate economic development as well as reduce tax burdens, beginning with the 5% property tax hike 3 years ago. But to do so requires political will and voters questioning whether their officials are competent in doing their job. Voters should ask themselves: Are your kids getting a better education? Does your housing choices meet your needs? Do you feel safer? Do you have a job, or feel financially secure? Can you get to work quicker? Can you afford increases in your water/sewer bill? In summation, are you getting what your taxes pay for? Are you skeptical about the need for tax and fee increases?

A: Are educational programs effective? Budget allocations should be tied to student outcomes — with performance metrics required before renewal. Montgomery County’s public school system has shown that increased funding does not result in improved educational outcomes. Year after year, MCPS has received steady, above-Maintenance-of-Effort increases — often at or near fully requested levels, with the FY2027 proposal now reaching $3.78 Billion. Yet reading and math proficiency gains remain modest at best. Pre-COVID declines have not fully reversed. Achievement gaps by race, income, language, and disability have persisted or widened. The pattern is unmistakable: fully funding does not drive meaningful academic excellence. No document from MCEA or MCPS counters this long-term record. One may ask whether the MCPS spending is actually going toward education or is it being spent on legal and public relations fees, questionable contracts, sexual harassment buyouts. I would propose a state bill to create an Inspector General dedicated solely to MCPS to ensure funding for educational outcomes.

A: The purpose of my campaign is to give voters an alternative candidate with experience and expertise who knows how to work across the aisle and who is not afraid to ask questions and who will focus on effectiveness of government services. Montgomery County residents, especially those who reside in LD16, need an advocate to speak for them in the General Assembly. I hope to encourage others with policy expertise and government experience to engage locally to improve the operations of their county and state governments. We need substantive debate, not sound bites, about alternative approaches to solving basic, local problems. At present Montgomery County government discourages substantive debate and the media fails to point that out.