Families First – I believe we need to do everything possible to encourage the health and well-being of our families and that the state has a role to play. We need to ensure that quality and affordable childcare is available to families that need it. We need policies on employee leave that enable parents to retain their jobs when taking leave time to attend to their families. Most importantly, we need to put greater effort on developing high quality, well paid jobs available to families who want to call Vermont home. Jen and I are the parents of two young children; we both work outside the home as well. I understand the challenges and needs of working families first hand every day.
Technology – I believe we need to have a 21st century technology infrastructure to support and grow our prospering tech sector. We need to take proactive steps to recruit new tech companies to locate in Chittenden County and throughout Vermont and to nurture our existing fast-growing employers with appropriate incentives and policies. I have been a leader in promoting new and emerging technologies in the public sector.
Education – I believe we are at a crossroads in how to best educate our children to meet the challenges they will face in the 21st century. We need to encourage our schools to explore new ways of teaching and student learning. Making the changes to achieve these overarching goals will be tough and will generate intense discussions – as it should. I have been closely involved on this issue and was instrumental in helping generate momentum for the establishment of Vermont’s first two magnet schools.
Environment – Vermont has long been at the forefront of the environmental movement and is a recognized leader in national and international arenas. To maintain our high standing, we need to be ever vigilant not to sacrifice or cut corners on what we have worked so hard to achieve. Environmental conservation and preservation goes hand and hand with sound business decisions. We should do everything possible to promote and enhance this synergy. My education, training, expertise and experience have prepared me to address these issues.
Public Safety – Vermont is continually ranked as one of the safest states in the nation. That does not mean that we are not faced with serious issues. Domestic violence and illegal and prescription drug abuse continue to be a part of everyday existence for many Vermonters. I believe we should not waste our tax dollars on prosecuting possession of small amounts of marijuana but instead focus our precious resources on funding substance abuse treatment. I have many years of experience dealing with drug prosecutions and other serious felonies as a criminal and civil prosecutor. I will ensure that our public safety system remains fair and just for all participants.
