We need to show fiscal responsibility through necessary budget reforms to revive our economy and put us on a path to growth. We must eliminate inefficiency, fraud, and waste, and focus our spending on resources to keep us safe, grow the economy, and protect vital programs. I support initiatives to revitalize rural communities, lower the cost of living, and provide economic opportunities for small businesses to grow.
Second Amendment
I grew up hunting and fishing with my family in Upstate NY and strongly support responsible firearm ownership. The Second Amendment is not second class, it is a safeguard created by our founders to protect all other rights. Along with the majority of Americans, of gun owners, and of NRA members, I support a fast, efficient, and accurate universal background system to keep guns away from people with mental health issues. As a defender of the 2nd amendment, I would also legislate safeguards such as expedited redress and prohibitions against registries. I stand with millions of fellow law-abiding gun owners in this country in our overwhelming support to limit further tragedies while protecting freedoms.
Women’s Rights & Choice
As a mom of four, I can’t imagine being in a position to make the impossible reproductive choices that some women are faced with. I haven’t lived their experiences, and I shouldn’t be legislating based on my own emotions on an issue. The government should stay out of our bodies and out of our homes. Decisions should be made between a woman and her doctor. Additionally, assisted reproductive technology and contraception are separate issues that should never be lumped in with abortion laws.
Veterans & Military
I am from a multi-generational military family myself, and I have tremendous respect and appreciation for those who serve. America owes a lot to our heroes and we need to stand up for those who sacrificed for us by providing them with the appropriate care and services after they’ve transitioned home. Veterans, active duty military, and their family members have my strong, unwavering support.
Healthcare
The current healthcare system isn’t benefitting patients, doctors, or hospitals, and it needs an overhaul. We need transparency in medical pricing, lower prescription drug prices, and a less-confusing insurance structure. I would advocate for increased access to mental healthcare and eldercare, especially for our veterans and seniors.
Environment
The Adirondack Park is the greatest natural gem of NYS. We must protect its land, air, and water, along with the rest of NY21. I’ve traveled 48 of our 50 states and have witnessed the immense beauty of our nation. I support measures to protect our environment and communities in meaningful ways, but we must find a careful balance so that we don’t overburden businesses with regulations while doing so.
Police & First Responders
My own husband was a volunteer firefighter and EMT in NYS for many years. I support those who protect us through an increase in funding for law enforcement and first responders, to give them additional training and the resources they need to keep our families and communities safe.
Infrastructure
It’s important that we invest in America. Infrastructure projects will bring jobs, benefit current and future generations, and put us in a position to remain a global superpower. I will vote to support the Essential Air Program, a lifeline to so many Upstate NY communities, along with other vital infrastructure projects. We must also modernize cellular and broadband infrastructure to ensure that North Country residents have proper access to compete in today’s digital workforce. I will enact legislation that mandates the build-out of these rural areas and raises the definition of “high speed” Internet.
Education
As a former educator and a parent of school-aged children, education is a topic of great importance and interest to me. Today’s students are coming to school with experiences and knowledge beyond anything that was envisioned when today’s curriculum was developed decades ago. It’s time to modernize education and teaching techniques to meet the needs of the next generation. We need to give teachers the latitude to use their skills and knowledge to innovate. This needs to be addressed at the federal level with changes to policies that result in improvements within the education system.
Agriculture
I have great admiration for farmers, who are the backbone of the North Country. Agriculture is an essential part of our local economy, culture, and food supply. We need to reverse the Obama-era ban on 2% and whole milk in schools. I will also enact policies that will make it easier for farmers to do their jobs, such as cutting down on government interference in farming operations.
Term limits & Anti-corruption Measures
I strongly believe we need term limits to prevent lifelong politicians from keeping their seats to increase their power and wealth, while turning their backs on the people they are meant to serve. In order for the public to have trust in their government, representatives need to be held accountable. We need strong anti-corruption and accountability measures in place, and then we need to actually enforce them. I support limited government, where certain individual liberties and rights of the people are beyond the scope of government control and intervention. The government should not overstep these bounds when enacting legislation.
