Maryland Senate District 24

A: We cannot close a structural deficit by putting more pressure on working families, and we cannot ignore it either. The path forward requires discipline, accountability, and economic growth.

As a state senator, I would focus on strengthening oversight of how taxpayer dollars are spent—identifying duplication, cutting inefficiencies, and improving procurement practices where costs are inflated, or dollars are leaving the state unnecessarily. We also have to grow and retain our tax base. Too much public money is leaving Maryland through out-of-state contracts and weak local reinvestment. I would support policies that prioritize Maryland-based businesses and keep more of our dollars circulating in our own economy. If additional revenue is needed, it should be targeted—not broad tax increases—by closing loopholes, improving compliance, and modernizing how we capture revenue. Long-term stability comes from growth. When more Marylanders are working, earning, and building wealth here, the state’s fiscal position improves without placing additional strain on families.

A: The first is the rising cost of living. Too many Maryland families are working hard but still falling behind as housing, childcare, and everyday expenses outpace income. For many, it’s becoming harder to build stability, let alone get ahead. Second, we are seeing challenges in our commercial tax base. When we fail to attract, grow, and retain businesses, the burden shifts to residents—especially through higher residential property taxes and other costs that families are left to carry. A stronger business environment means a broader tax base and less pressure on homeowners.

Third, we are not circulating our own dollars effectively. Too much public money leaves Maryland through contracts and spending that do not prioritize local impact. When those dollars leave, jobs, small businesses, and community investment leave with them. If we lower costs, strengthen our business environment, and keep more dollars working here at home, we can build a stronger, more resilient economy for Maryland families.

A: Lowering the cost of living starts with addressing the biggest pressures on families—housing, childcare, and everyday expenses. On housing, we have to increase supply and remove unnecessary barriers that drive up costs. That includes supporting workforce housing, streamlining development where appropriate, and expanding pathways to homeownership so more families can build equity instead of being priced out. We also need to reduce the hidden costs that get passed on to residents. That means reviewing state fees, taxes, and regulations to make sure we are not adding unnecessary costs to everyday goods and services. Childcare is one of the largest expenses for working families. Supporting providers and expanding access can help stabilize costs and make it easier for parents to stay in the workforce. Finally, we have to focus on keeping more dollars in Maryland. When we support local businesses and strengthen our economy, we create better-paying jobs and reduce the pressure families feel every month. Lowering costs isn’t one policy—it’s aligning housing, economic, and workforce strategies so families can actually get ahead.

A: The Blueprint is a long-term investment in our children and our future workforce, and we should not walk away from that commitment. At the same time, we have to be honest about cost, accountability, and results. Before raising broad new revenue or rolling back programs, the state should evaluate how funds are being used and prioritize what is delivering the strongest outcomes for students. We need to ensure dollars are reaching classrooms, supporting teachers, and improving student achievement—not getting lost in inefficiencies. If additional funding is necessary, I would support targeted and responsible revenue strategies rather than across-the-board tax increases. We should also look for opportunities to improve coordination and reduce duplication across systems. This is not an all-or-nothing decision. We can stay committed to the Blueprint while being fiscally responsible and focused on results.

A: I want constituents to be able to clearly see, measure, and participate in how I’m doing—not just wait until the next election. First, they should be able to review my legislative record—what bills I sponsor, how I vote, and whether those efforts are producing real results in areas like housing, cost of living, and economic opportunity. Second, constituents should be able to see what resources are being brought back to the district. That includes funding for schools, infrastructure, public safety, and community development projects that directly impact daily life. Third, constituents should judge my office by how well we serve them. I will publicly report response times, case resolution rates, and the number of residents assisted so people know whether their concerns are being handled effectively. Finally, I want constituents to have a direct role in shaping the work. I will establish issue-based committees so residents can provide input before and after key decisions. I will also publish quarterly reports so constituents can independently track progress. Success isn’t defined by what I say—it’s what people can see, measure, and participate in.