2024 Denton Record-Chronicle Candidate Profile
The Record-Chronicle is Denton County’s primary source of local news. The newspaper is a local news organization, headquartered in Denton and focused on issues and people in Denton County. During election years, the Record-Chronicle sends out Candidate Questionnaires to all local candidates on ballots that affect Denton County. The responses received by the candidates for each race are published in a single article. You can see my answers as compared to those of my opponents here.
Q1: What do you believe should be the top priority of the Texas House of Representatives, and, if elected, how would you advance those priorities for Denton County residents?
As a Libertarian, I believe that the top priority of the Texas House of Representatives should be to protect individual freedoms and reduce government overreach. For Denton County residents, this means prioritizing policies that promote personal liberty, fiscal responsibility, and minimal government interference in daily lives.
If elected, I would advocate for reducing property taxes, eliminating unnecessary regulations that stifle local businesses, and ensuring that education remains a choice-driven system that empowers parents and students rather than bureaucracies. I would push for criminal justice reform to decriminalize non-violent offenses and ensure that law enforcement focuses on protecting citizens rather than enforcing unnecessary regulations.
To advance these priorities, I would engage with local community members, hold town hall meetings to listen to their concerns, and collaborate with like-minded representatives to champion bills that reflect our values. Transparency and accountability in government spending would also be emphasized, ensuring that tax dollars are spent wisely and effectively. By prioritizing individual rights and local autonomy, we can create a more prosperous and free Denton County.
Q2: During a time when there is a lot of partisan division, both nationally and locally, what is your plan for working collaboratively with all members of the House?
Regardless of partisan politics, collaboration in a partisan environment hinges on a commitment to principles over party loyalty. My plan would focus on finding common ground with all members of the House by emphasizing shared values, such as fiscal responsibility and the protection of individual liberties.
I would approach discussions with an open mind, actively seeking opportunities to co-sponsor legislation that aligns with both Libertarian ideals and the interests of others. By fostering respectful dialogue, I believe I can encourage constructive conversations around issues like criminal justice reform, educational choice, and reducing government overreach - topics that resonate across party lines.
Engaging in regular communication and building personal relationships with fellow representatives would be essential. By demonstrating a willingness to listen and collaborate, I believe I can create a more conducive atmosphere for multi-partisan efforts. Additionally, I would prioritize transparency and accountability, making it clear that my goal is to enhance the welfare of ALL Texans, regardless of political affiliation. Ultimately, by championing policies that protect individual freedoms and promote limited government, I can build coalitions that transcend partisan divides, focusing on the shared goal of improving our communities.
Q3: District 57 covers a very demographically diverse group of citizens. How do you plan to represent all of them?
To effectively represent the diverse constituents of District 57, I would prioritize individual rights and personal freedom, ensuring that ALL voices are heard and valued. My approach would focus on community engagement that actively seeks input from residents across different demographics.
I would hold regular town hall meetings and forums to create a platform for open dialogue, encouraging citizens to share their unique perspectives and concerns. This inclusive approach helps me understand the specific needs of various groups, allowing me to advocate for policies that reflect our communities' diversity.
Additionally, I would promote policies that protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background. This includes championing criminal justice reform, supporting educational choices, and advocating for reduced regulations that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
By emphasizing a government that empowers individuals rather than controls them, I believe I can foster an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Ultimately, my commitment to protecting personal liberties and promoting local autonomy ensures that every resident of District 57 feels represented and respected, regardless of their demographic background.