Editor’s note: these are the candidate’s responses to questions provided by RIPR. The views expressed are the candidate’s alone, edited only in cases of inappropriate or libelous language. No changes have been made to correct errors of fact, spelling or grammar.
Do you support trucking tolls for tractor trailers on Rhode Island highways?
I support trucking tolls for tractor trailers on Rhode Island highways. While this may seemingly alienate me from the teamsters, which I in no way intend to do, the disproportionate use of heavy equipment on RI roads must be compensated by way of additional payment in the form of a toll. I also believe that RI highways must be kept in much better repair than current condition. The repair of the roads keeps a portion of Rhode Islanders working but these jobs must be union positions that help hard-working laborers and their families able to make a sustainable living. This process keeps people not only employed but makes it feasible for people to stay in the state. The RhodeWorks infrastructure program is worth continuing. I do not support an expansion of the tolling to include motor vehicles.
Would you support a state-mandated health insurance program?
I support a state-mandated health insurance program. Having worked at the intersection of Debtor Ave. and Divorce Lane for 30+ years, I have seen the crippling effect that lack of health insurance or the fear of losing health insurance from a spouse and the hold it has on spouses contemplating divorce. I have also seen many people needing to file bankruptcy protection to alleviate medical debts that have become a stranglehold. By lowering overhead, improving education and providing affordable access to care, RI can actually save millions of dollars and keep costs down for subscribers with a state-mandated health insurance program.
Are you in favor of expanding protections against sexual harassment to include domestic workers (such as nannies) and volunteers (such as interns)?
I am in favor of expanding protections against sexual harassment to include domestic workers and volunteers. The #metoo movement should not be limited to paid vs. volunteer or full-time vs. part-time workers. If sexual harassment is tortious conduct, then civil wrongs should be compensable. If the sexual harassment rises to the level of criminal conduct, no one would ever have to fall into specific categories in order for the perpetrator to be charged with a crime.
If given the opportunity, would you codify the right to have an abortion in state law?
If given the opportunity, I would codify the right to have an abortion in Rhode Island state law. It’s a matter of choice and thoughtful deliberation. Women and families must maintain an independent fundamental right to choose for themselves. I stand behind the right of every woman to choose, consistent with Roe v. Wade, regardless of ability to pay.
Is the state doing enough to help people who have been left behind by the economy? If not, what additional steps should be taken?
The state of RI has taken many significant steps in improving the lives of people who traditionally have been left behind by the economy. The City of Providence’s mandatory foreclosure prevention mediation program should be taken state-wide and not end until the terrible effects of the Republican’s deregulation of the mortgage industry in the mid-2000s have been eliminated. The “Big Short” has left many unknowing mortgagors without an ability to fight for their homes. Secondly, every student should be able to graduate from college debt-free. Loan modifications for past graduates, who are financially burdened should be able to have interest rates lowered. Our state has already committed to assisting state college students and more can be done by assisting for all four years. The “Brain Drain” can be waned if RI makes a commitment to helping college students and college graduates. By having our graduates stay in RI, the best and brightest can contribute to our state’s success.
Does primary education need to be improved statewide? If so, how?
Primary education needs to be constantly improved statewide because it should never be stagnant. Teaching to learn vs. teaching to pass a test must be the rule and not the exception. Also, the teachers must continue to receive the financial support from the Districts and state aid to keep our great teachers in RI and keep teaching our children.
Do you support RI’s designation as a sanctuary state? Why or why not?
I support RI’s designation as a sanctuary state. Many RI-ers have no concept of what it means to seek political asylum and the bureaucratic process to claim same. The metronome on this topic sways violently. While the federal government debates this “hot potato” topic between administrations, RI can stay resilient in its position. This may cost the state some federal dollars but there is no such status as an illegal person.
Although not specifically asked, I also oppose any expansion of potentially dangerous loss of northwest RI’s rural character by unwanted, massive fossil fuel infrastructure projects that increase emissions into our community.
