Age: 57
Party: Democrat
Occupation: Program director, The Arizona Partnership for Immunization
Why are you running for office/re-election?
Arizona must improve education and diversify our economy if we are going to be competitive in the future. The legislature must make strategic decisions for the future while addressing our immediate economic crisis. I want to continue building a state infrastructure that encourages innovation, focuses on technology and assures opportunity for Arizonans.
What experience qualifies you for the position?
In public policy, new ideas must interface with institutional knowledge to bring meaningful and workable change. My experience includes past service in the House of Representatives and a term in the Senate and leadership on critical issues such as education, healthcare, public safety and consumer protections.
What do you think is the most important issue of the election?
Arizona’s economy has survived on growth and tourism in the past. It must be rebuilt on a broader base that is less susceptible to the ebb and flow of the marketplace. Our universities will lead the way with biosciences and technology research and development. The downward shift in the housing market has caused a ripple effect throughout the state. We must act to protect Arizonan’s in the future by reviewing our regulations and ceasing the practice of inviting bad actors from other states to do business here.
If elected, what would you want your relationship with ASU to be?
First, I am an ASU alumna. Second, District 14 includes the Downtown campus. I have been an active participant with the City of Phoenix and ASU in encouraging the success of the campus. ASU administration keeps us well informed.
Why should ASU students want to elect you?
Students should support me for very practical reasons. I have a great record in support of education and I represent ASU Downtown. More important however is the fact that I have a daughter taking classes on campus and another daughter starting college next year. I will be impacted by the changes going on at ASU including tuition increases, changes in classes and realignment of programs.
What is the No. 1 change you want to see in your district?
The best thing that has happened in District 14 is the development of the Downtown campus. It has brought education closer to the families and increased employment opportunities as well.
What would your contributions to the community be?
I work closely with the neighborhoods in my district to find resources to solve problems and will continue to as long as I serve as state senator.
