Our Platform.
Over the past 17 years, I've committed myself to serving our community, focusing on sustainability, affordability, and equity. As your Lieutenant Governor, I aim to bring these values to the forefront, ensuring a brighter future for all Vermonters.
Vermont's natural beauty is a treasure we must protect. Here's my plan to ensure a sustainable future:
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Promote Renewable Energy: During my time on the Winooski City Council, I supported local solar energy projects and worked on initiatives to reduce our city's carbon footprint. As Lieutenant Governor, I will advocate for the expansion of wind, solar, and hydroelectric power across the state, creating green jobs and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels (Vtpoc) (VTDigger).
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Support Sustainable Agriculture: I’ve worked hard to understand the broken supply chain systems that impact farmers at all levels and I understand the need for more locally grown and consumed food. I will continue to advocate for policies that support our farmers in adopting these practices, ensuring food security and environmental health.
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Enhance Public Transportation: In Winooski, I have pushed for improved public transit options. Statewide, I will advocate for public transit to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and make it easier for Vermonters to get where they need to go.
Making Vermont more affordable for all is a top priority:
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Expand Access to Healthcare: At UVM Medical Center, where I worked as an operations support specialist, I've seen firsthand the challenges Vermonters face in accessing healthcare. I support universal healthcare initiatives to ensure all Vermonters have access to affordable, quality healthcare (VTDigger).
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Support Small Businesses: I have worked to support small businesses in Winooski, especially those owned by BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals. I will advocate for policies that provide financial support and resources to small businesses statewide.
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Reduce Tax Burden: I will explore ways to reduce the tax burden on middle and lower-income families while ensuring that the wealthiest pay their fair share.
Housing affordability is a pressing issue in our state. Here’s how I plan to address it:
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Increase Affordable Housing: On the Winooski City Council, I have been a strong advocate for affordable housing projects. As Lieutenant Governor, I will champion policies that incentivize the construction of affordable housing units and protect existing affordable housing from being converted into luxury properties (VTDigger).
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Increase Workforce and senior housing: We are not only lacking in traditional affordable housing, but also housing for the workforce we need and for our seniors to transition to. As Lieutenant Governor I will advocate for policies that create housing for the missing middle and dignified housing options for our seniors.
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Address Homelessness: My work with local shelters has shown me the importance of comprehensive support for the homeless. I will expand programs that provide housing and support services to homeless individuals and families.
Social justice and equity are at the heart of my campaign:
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Racial Equity: As a Black, gay man and a member of the Vermont Professionals of Color Network, I have dedicated myself to fighting systemic racism. I will advocate for statewide racial equity policies to ensure equal opportunities for all (Vtpoc) (LGBTQ+ Victory Fund).
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LGBTQ+ Rights: I am proud to be one of the first openly gay members of the Winooski City Council. I will advocate for comprehensive protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in all areas of life, including healthcare, employment, and housing (Boston Spirit Magazine).
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Educational Equity: I have worked to address disparities in educational resources in Winooski. As Lieutenant Governor, I will promote policies that ensure every child in Vermont has access to high-quality education.
Our strength lies in our diversity and community spirit. Here's how we can build a better Vermont together:
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Community Engagement: I believe in the power of community involvement. I will ensure that all voices, especially those from marginalized communities, are heard and included in policymaking.
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Transparency and Accountability: Transparency has been a cornerstone of my work in Winooski. I will foster a transparent government that is accountable to the people of Vermont.
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Innovative Solutions: I have always encouraged innovative approaches to solving problems. As Lieutenant Governor, I will continue to draw on the strengths and ideas of all Vermonters to address our most pressing issues.