I am beyond frustrated, and I know you are too. I hear it everywhere I go:

“Why can’t you all get anything done at the Capitol?”

Government has become so divided and so ineffective that almost nothing gets done. After nearly 12 years as a state representative, I’ve seen it firsthand. Government is more focused on political battles than on actually serving the people they’re here to serve.

I’ve watched extreme legislation that could never pass on its own merit get shoved into massive omnibus bills, allowing lawmakers to hide votes or forcing votes for policies with little support. Too often, bills and amendments are crafted not to solve problems, but to trap the other side for future campaign attacks.

Enough of the political game-playing. Let’s focus on core state responsibilities, find areas of agreement, and get some fixing done.

I’m a conservative with strong principles, but that doesn’t mean I can’t talk with people I disagree with. I don’t attack; I listen. I want to hear all kinds of ideas and weigh their merit, – not shut down debate with name calling. When I meet with people, we may not always end up agreeing. But it’s important to me that they walk away knowing that I am always willing to listen, I will treat them respectfully, and that I care – because I do care.

I have seen several of my bills successfully become law, such as improving special education processes for schools and requiring state grant programs to prove they’re effective. One of my favorite accomplishments helped foster children reconnect with siblings they had been separated from, allowing them to attend birthdays and holidays together. Seeing the tears of joy on the faces of those foster youth advocates as that bill passed unanimously remains one of the most meaningful moments of my career.

There is still so much work to do.

For decades, children in our urban core have been trapped in failing schools that are not working for them. The majority cannot read, write, or do math proficiently. They have no way out. How would you feel if you had to watch your child go to school every day, barely learning, and you’re constantly worried about gangs and safety? My goodness, my heart breaks for these kids and their families who are absolutely stuck in a system that is not working for them – and has not for over fifty years!  It’s criminal!

We cannot keep repeating the same failed strategies year after year, generation after generation. We must think differently. We need real solutions, and we need them now.

I have never been afraid to go against the grain to fight for what is right. From going to bat as a teacher for one of my first graders who needed extra help to refusing to play political games at the Capitol, fighting for what is right has always been ingrained in who I am.

I know there are legislators on both sides who want to work together and put people first, but nothing will truly change until leadership changes at the top.

That’s why I’m running for governor.

If you want to keep doing the same old thing over and over again, then I’m not your candidate. If I take the lead in this state, it’s time for change. We’re going to start putting people first and start getting things done!