My Focus for our District and State 

I want to help lead our state in creating jobs and economic opportunity for the 21st century. To create jobs in a smarter and more sustainable way. Here are the three primary areas I want to focus on to help ensure that our area thrives and remains a place where people want to live, work and raise a family:  

• Usher in a new energy economy all across this state. Colorado is and must remain a national leader in creating a job-producing clean energy industry. There are enormous opportunities for job creation and economic savings through energy efficiency, renewable energy and alternative fuels. I know because during my previous service in the Legislature, I pushed through legislation that created jobs, saved money for schools and municipalities and helped clean up Colorado’s air.
• Push for the reform our health care system. It is broken. Sadly broken. I experienced a life threatening disease with no insurance. It is a horrible place to be. But it is not uncommon. About 1 in 6 Coloradans go without insurance. Others watch their premiums skyrocket or are denied coverage. I want to make sure quality health care is affordable and accessible. We need to use every opportunity we can to restore a sense of security for our children, our parents and ourselves.
• Provide the opportunity for every Coloradan to realize their potential through education. Sadly, we are still 37th in K-12 education funding and the financing system for higher education is a total mess. Failing our kids in this way is a bankrupt long-term economic and social strategy. Historically, Colorado has enjoyed a reputation for having a highly educated workforce. We won’t be able to attract leading companies in the new energy economy unless we maintain this edge. So I am going to do everything I can to help ensure that we continue investing in education, strengthening math and science and giving our young people the opportunities they need to thrive and contribute. More on education below. 

This is a comprehensive vision for economic renewal and progress. It is a vision that reflects the value we Coloradans have for simultaneous economic and environmental progress. And it is a vision that fulfills our responsibilities to future generations.  

I have the experience and fortitude to transform this vision into a reality. Every time you hear my scratchy voice, I want you to think about what hope and hard work can accomplish. I want you to know that overcoming adversity is empowering. And I want you to know that together we can overcome the challenges we now face. I will fight for you and beside you with the same energy and commitment that I’ve brought to my personal experiences. We can do this. It is not going to be easy. But it is worth the fight. Please join with me for this renewal.