Issues

Integrity First: I will represent the citizens of House District 16B with integrity.

Get to Work: Rising to the challenge means recognizing there's common ground. That's where we must start on every issue.

Taxes: We have a right to expect our tax money is being used by the Legislature wisely and without waste. As your state representative, I will closely examine all spending legislation to make sure we're getting a good return on our investment.

In recent years the state has failed to meet its obligation to Minnesotans and we're feeling the effects of this every time we open our property tax bill.

Simply shifting the burden from the Capitol and to our local governments is not leadership. For too long, our counties, cities and school districts have been forced to carry more than their fair share to compensate for the failed policies of state leaders. The Legislature must treat local governments as a partner rather than dumping an unfair, punitive burden on them.

Defending the Middle Class: Too many Middle Class families are paying more than their fair share in taxes. I refuse to allow Sherburne County residents to carry an excessive load while big corporations and the super-rich in the Minneapolis area exploit loopholes that aren't available to working families.

Education: We need strong leadership to ensure that all Minnesota students receive the excellent education they deserve. Early childhood education and sky-high college tuition are two areas that need immediate attention. Healthy investment in education will ensure Minnesota students continue to lead the nation in achievement and that our state is able to attract the economic development we need to thrive in the 21st century.

Health Care: Nearly 400,000 Minnesotans—including 82,000 children—are uninsured, and many, many more are barely able to afford health care as insurance premiums continue to rise. This hidden tax is taking a painful toll on families and small businesses throughout Sherburne County.

Since the federal government has refused to lead in the face of crisis, the Legislature must. By working together as Minnesotans, not DFLers and Republicans, we can craft bold solutions that meet the needs of our state.

Transportation and State Infrastructure Reinvestment and Maintenance: A local home inspector once told my wife and me that the first rule of home maintenance is "Protect what you have." It's great advice and it applies not only to our personal property but to state infrastructure as well—whether it's roads, state parks or schools. Dollars that are spent responsibly on our infrastructure will ensure that we reap the benefits for years to come.