PRIORITY ISSUES
Shelby County deserves a fair shot. Strong schools, respected work, and transparent local decision‑making are how our communities stay stable, safe, and prosperous. Progress happens when decisions are made with local community voices focused on sustainable, long‑term results.
On Education
Education That Works for Everyone
Education is central to why families choose to live in District 83, which includes some of the highest‑performing public schools in Tennessee, such as Germantown Municipal School District, consistently ranked among the top districts statewide.
That success reflects strong community investment, engaged parents, and excellent educators, and it should be protected. At the same time, District 83 is part of a larger Shelby County system where outcomes vary widely, and long‑term progress depends on supporting educators everywhere, not pitting schools or communities against one another.
The Tennessee Voucher Program is already impacting our district, but with limited data made available, its long-term effects remain unclear. While promoted as expanding choice, we need stronger accountability and a focus on what truly matters: equitable access, student performance, and investing in the future of education for all.
Even in high‑performing districts, teachers report spending personal funds on classroom needs and facing increasing demands without matching support. I believe accountability works best when it is paired with sustained investment, local trust, and collaboration with parents and educators.
This is the approach that has helped the majority of the schools in our district succeed and should guide education policy across Tennessee.
On Work & the Economy
Respect for the People Who Keep District 83 Running
District 83 is economically diverse, with people working across healthcare, professional services, small business, education, and public service. A strong economy isn’t just about growth: it’s about stability, fairness, and predictability for the people who make up our community. When workers have a real voice, through unions, professional associations, or workplace collaboration, jobs are safer, turnover is lower, and performance improves. Supporting fair standards and modern benefits helps employers compete and helps residents build stable lives. A healthy economy is one where success is shared.
On Healthcare
Healthcare People Can Count On At Every Age
Reliable healthcare is essential to independence, productivity, and quality of life, especially in a district with a growing population of older adults. Even well-insured households face rising premiums, surprise bills, and gaps in mental health and addiction services. Preventive care and timely treatment save money and reduce long-term strain on families and systems. I will focus on practical solutions that protect access to local providers and strengthen mental health care, including expanding TennCare to ensure more families have coverage when it matters most. Healthcare should be predictable and accessible, so health challenges don’t become financial crises, and no one is left behind because of cost or eligibility gaps.
On Childcare & Caregiving
Childcare as Essential Infrastructure
Policies should work across life stages. Childcare is one of the biggest pressures facing households in Tennessee, and it’s a key factor in workforce participation. When care is unaffordable or unavailable, people turn down opportunities, reduce hours, or leave our workforce entirely. This issue also affects families caring for aging relatives and others who rely on dependable support systems. I support expanding high‑quality childcare options, strengthening the childcare workforce, and improving access to care that fits real schedules. Supporting caregivers strengthens the entire local economy.
On Safety & Community Well-Being
Safe Neighborhoods Through Prevention, Trust, and Accountability
Safe neighborhoods are foundational to our quality of life. Consistent standards and rapid response matter, but long‑term safety also depends on prevention, mental health support, and youth opportunity. I support ensuring law enforcement has the resources to do their job well, while investing in strategies and programs that reduce harm before it starts. This includes education, funding, and program expansion. Public safety works best when accountability, trust, and prevention go hand in hand.
On Local Governance & Accountability
Clear, Accountable, and Local Decisions
District 83 includes multiple municipalities and school systems, and residents deserve decisions that are transparent and grounded in local realities. People should be able to see how public dollars are used, how priorities are set, and how outcomes are measured without needing insider connections. I believe the best solutions come from listening first to parents, educators, workers, seniors, and small business owners. Local control is strongest when paired with clear information and accountability.