Elected Experience: State Senate since 2013. Currently Senate Deputy Republican Leader. Committees : Ways and Means; Ranking Member Economic Development/International Trade; Energy, Environment and Technology. Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Trade Relations; Previously - Senate Vice-President Pro Tem, Joint Select Task Force on Nuclear Energy, Kennewick City Council Member and Mayor Pro Tem.
Other Professional Experience: Business attorney
Education: University of New Hampshire School of Law, Juris Doctorate; Drew University, B.A.
Community Service: Anti- human trafficking projects; Gang prevention programs with local law enforcement; Board member, Tri-Cities Visitor and Convention Bureau and Boys and Girls Club of Benton/ Franklin Counties.
Statement: Concern for my community inspired me to seek election to Kennewick City Council where I was elected by my peers as Mayor Pro Tem. Having raised my children, consulted for businesses, worked as a lawyer, and held office here, I was prepared to roll up my sleeves in Olympia as your Senator.
Since 2013 I have been a strong conservative voice for Eastern Washington and the Tri-Cities, steadfastly focused on my priorities of: fighting higher taxes; creating and protecting local jobs ; supporting Hanford and business diversification; reducing regulatory burdens on small business; maximizing resources for education; fighting for fiscal responsibility in our state government; addressing mental-health needs and anti- human trafficking, and providing vital services for our seniors.
Highlights of my work this past session include bills passed to improve access to mental health services for children and new moms; and resources for suicide prevention on college campuses. I am unwavering in my quest to address mental-health needs in our state! Additionally, I have secured major funding for an array of Tri-Cities projects and have become known as the Legislature's leading advocate for nuclear energy.
I respectfully ask for your vote.