Democratic candidate for Oregon’s 1st Congressional District, which consists of the northwest corner of the state — including Clatsop, Columbia, Washington and Yamhill counties, and a portion of southwest Multnomah County in Portland.

I was born and raised in East Los Angeles, California. My mother was a single parent working multiple jobs to ensure me and my siblings had food on the table and a roof over my head. My mother always taught me to be humble in my lifetime and to respect each and every human being. Although I may not have had wealth growing up, I was blessed to have a mother and siblings who supported me in my endeavors. Oregon needs someone who can relate to the everyday Joe or Jane, not another career politician.

This is my first time running for public office.

However, I have enjoyed volunteering at the local Boys and Girls Club, the American Red Cross and my local high school track team. During and after college, I was engaged in HIV awareness walks, Cure for Alzheimer’s disease, etc. It is time for me to step into the political stage to represent the interest of the American people.

I feel Americans are under attack by their own government and politicians. Congress is ending programs that help millions of Americans and they are not stopping there. I fear if we do not elect candidates who represent their constituents’ voice, we will lose sight of what America stands for and end programs that will kill millions of Americans. In 2018 and 2020, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and other important programs are on the line. I cannot stand on the sideline and allow Congress to continue on this path. I cannot stand on the sideline and watch the American dream be destroyed by a handful. I cannot stand on the sideline and witness everyday Americans work hard and sacrifice for their family to be taxed to pay for the rich. Oregon deserves new leadership that will deliver results for the people, not the big corporations or the wealthiest of all.

If elected, I would immediately start working with my colleagues from different districts and find common solutions that impact everyday Americans. Rent control will be one of my top priorities. Health care — ensuring people do not have to make a tough decision when it comes to their health care or paying bills. Education — investing resources in our schools to allow our children to reach their full potential and lead us into the future. It is time our educators got a pay raise. We have seen what our teachers and educators can do if they come together across the country. I would work with our governor to ensure we take care of those who take care of our children (teachers and school officials).

One group of people that is forgotten is our senior citizens.

Lower prescription drugs once and for all.

Increase Social Security benefits for our elders, they deserve this and much more.

I would hold town halls every several weeks, not only during election time.

I would travel my district constantly to ensure I listen to every single constituent in my district.

I want the people to grade me on my work and results I am delivering.

This election and campaign are not about me, it is about the people who have been forgotten.

If elected, I promise you will see a difference in your communities, schools, jobs, environment and in your wallet. I want to invest in you! In your future, in your children’s future and most importantly, in our future as Oregonians.

Oregon has great potential to lead this country into the next 20-30 years.

If you believe in my message and platform, allow me to lead us together.

Thank you.