We all know it: in 2024 our very democracy is on the ballot. Our system of checks and balances, peaceful transfer of power, accountability, the basic freedoms enshrined in our Constitution. Donald Trump’s MAGA movement is actively trying to make us a different kind of nation. We CANNOT let this happen.

In The United States we annually spend about $3.9 trillion on our healthcare. That’s about 10% less than the entire GDP of Germany! Are you happy with the end product? It’s designed by and for those who reap the biggest healthcare profits, not by and for doctors, nurses and you. There’s lots of room for improvement, and greater price transparency is a good place to start.

One thing you have to know about me: in 1993 I was shot in the chest at point-blank range in a botched carjacking. The assailants got away, and murdered someone a few weeks later. Then they were arrested. I learned a lot about violent crime, and will never tolerate it. Public Safety is number ONE, always, and we need to keep learning ways to keep people safe as they go about their lives.

I stand firmly in support of unions and believe in the fundamental right of workers to organize and negotiate for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. I’ve been a union member for 38 years!

We do far better as a society when we open the doors of opportunity to everyone — and vigorously defend the rights of all people to make their American Dream come true.

The kids in the classrooms and on the playgrounds today will be the ones taking the reigns tomorrow. The future of the Republic will be up to them. Let’s make sure they gain the tools they’ll need to succeed move the great American Experiment forward.