What are the top three issues facing the state of Kansas, and how would you address them, if elected?

Families, tax reduction and a living wage for workers are the three things I am concerned about.

The integrity of the family is best supported when government policies are family-friendly. One of the best ways to help families is to empower workers, the breadwinners of the family. I support workers and worker rights, and I will safeguard the right of collective bargaining for everyone, including teachers and public employees. Kansas family farms must be preserved and protected from out-of-state corporations, which threaten to monopolize our agricultural resources.

Higher taxes are not in the best interest of businesses, families, workers, farmers or efficient government. I would like to see a significant property tax reduction, especially for those on fixed incomes or retired. I would like to see the tax on food removed in Kansas. This will help everyone.

The minimum wage in Kansas $2.65 is next to last of the 50 states, with Wyoming being lower. The federal government has a minimum of $4.15. I believe families should be able to provide adequately for their basic needs and their families, while contributing as productive citizens to their communities. If wages are too low, they must seek assistance to provide for themselves and their families or cut basic necessities from their budget. A family of four to rise above poverty should make at least $9.37 an hour. Making a living wage for a family increases their ability to become consumers and will reduce the need for taxpayer-funded social programs.

Should additional state funds be earmarked for the education of Kansas children in K-12? Explain your answer.

I will support policies that promote local control and insure that every student in Kansas has the opportunity for a good education. Some of the money schools receive is wasted in the bureaucracy portion of education. Eliminating some of the bureaucracy will help education. Why does all of our education money need to be sent to Washington, D.C., and why are we given only a certain percentage of that money?

What unique qualifications would you bring to the job of state senator?

I’ve been a Democrat all my life. I’ve been involved in politics for many years. I was vice chair of the Leavenworth County Democrat committee in 1994. Since 1992, I have served on the state and Second District Democrat committees. In 1996, I graduated from St. Mary College with a degree in social studies because of my love for history and government. In addition, I have raised 11 children budgeting for the family and managing day-to-day activities in the home.

What should be done at the state level to handle the effects of growth in northeast Kansas?

I want to make government more family-friendly and assure Kansas prospers as part of the economic growth we are experiencing as a nation. Government policies should always encourage all types of people to be involved.