Working for a better Washington

Just a few weeks ago, I was sworn in as a representative from the 40th Legislative District in the Washington State House of Representatives. I’m proud to be the first Native American woman in state history elected to this position and am looking forward to tackling some of the key issues facing our community.

As a graduate of Central Washington University, and after spending a majority of my 20 years of governmental services in the Skagit, I am honored to serve in this new position and to know my work will help create a better Washington and a better world for all of us. I love being a voice for others and knowing that my work will improve the lives of my neighbors and my community.

Being a working mom and a newly elected representative, I am committed to ensuring we provide every child access to an early childhood education and that we provide affordable education from higher education to technical schools. All children have the potential for success and to achieve their dreams, but only if they’re given ample opportunities to learn and grow.

I ran for public office because I want all kids in Washington state to have the opportunity to lead successful lives. I want little boys and girls visiting the Legislature on school field trips to see me in the halls of our state capitol and to understand that they too have the potential to be leaders.

I’ve also been a lifelong advocate for access to high-quality health care for all regardless of background, race, gender or economic situation. As a society, we need to place more emphasis on preventative care to help ensure families stay healthy.

I’m a proud co-sponsor of a bill that embraces the idea of health care as a basic human right and would put Washington on a pathway towards adopting a health care system that provides equitable access and outcomes for all residents.

Affordable housing is another major concern of mine. The Pacific Northwest has seen dramatic increases in property values over the last several years. These increases have made it difficult for some families to stay in their homes. My colleagues and I in Olympia will be making every effort this year to address the housing crisis and reduce homelessness.

Lawmakers also have a lot of work to do to protect our environment and combat the harmful effects of climate change. We are the people of the Salish Sea and it’s our responsibility to protect it and the wildlife that thrives within it.

I was overwhelmed with pride and excitement to stand on the floor of the House my first day at the Capitol. It is a truly daunting thing to imagine that at one time a person with my heritage would not be allowed inside the House Chamber, let alone stand as a representative within it.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me in this position. I will work my hardest to serve you and make you proud! I want to emphasize that I am here as a representative for the entire 40th Legislative District. If you have any concerns at all, please contact me and let your voice be heard.

I am here for you! I can be reached at (360) 786-7800 or [email protected].