Infrastructure

I am committed to aggressively securing federal funds and grants to drive significant infrastructure improvements across our state, focusing keenly on transforming our public transit systems from Baton Rouge to Shreveport, and everywhere in between. In particular, modern infrastructure is the backbone of a thriving economy and a fundamental aspect of improving quality of life for all Louisianans.

That means:

  • Modernizing Public Transit: My vision includes bringing Baton Rouge and Shreveport’s public transit systems into the 21st century. This means advocating for federal investments to introduce electrified buses and wifi-enabled vehicles, ensuring our public transportation is not only eco-friendly but also equipped with the technology to meet the needs of today’s commuters. Additionally, I will push for the development of rapid transit lanes and explore the feasibility of regional rail systems that could better connect our urban centers.
  • Statewide High-Speed Rail System: A key pillar of my infrastructure agenda is the creation of a statewide high-speed rail system. This ambitious project aims to connect all major Louisiana colleges with each other and with major population centers. Such connectivity will enhance educational access, reduce traffic congestion, stimulate economic development, and provide environmentally friendly travel options. Imagine every college kid being able to go home without a car. Or (parents, look away) imagine every college kid having an affordable way to get to New Orleans on the weekend.
  • Bipartisan Cooperation for Statewide Benefits: Achieving these goals requires collaboration across the aisle and partnership with local officials, regardless of party affiliation. I pledge to work closely with local and state leaders to ensure that Louisiana’s infrastructure projects are a top priority at the federal level.
  • Strategic Allocation of Resources: By strategically targeting federal funds and grants, we can ensure that these critical projects not only get off the ground but are also completed efficiently and effectively. This includes leveraging relationships in Congress to advocate for budget allocations that reflect our state’s needs and ensuring that Louisiana receives its fair share of infrastructure funding.

Protect & Expand Medicare

While I champion Medicare for All as the model for our ultimate goal, I’m dedicated to immediate enhancements to Medicare. This includes expanding coverage to include essential vision and hearing services, lowering the eligibility age to 60, and ensuring Medicare has the power to negotiate lower drug prices.

Protect & Strengthen Social Security

I stand firmly against any attempts to privatize Social Security. Our commitment is to ensure the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share, safeguarding and enhancing benefits for all, especially our seniors.

Universal Healthcare

I firmly believe that healthcare is a fundamental human right, not a privilege reserved for the few. Every individual, regardless of their socio-economic status, deserves access to comprehensive, high-quality healthcare services. As your representative, I am committed to advocating for policies that ensure universal healthcare access, recognizing that a healthy society is the cornerstone of our collective success. Ensuring that every person can receive the medical care they need without the fear of financial ruin is not just a policy goal—it’s a moral imperative that reflects our values as a compassionate, equitable community.

A Just Transition to Clean Energy

Understanding the nuanced dynamics of the oil and gas sectors, my platform proposes a compassionate just transition strategy. I recognize that completely phasing out these industries is impractical and could jeopardize the livelihoods of countless families.

Instead, I support a balanced approach, offering retraining programs, economic diversification initiatives, and social safety nets to ensure that workers and their communities can thrive in a changing economic landscape without sacrificing their financial security.

My vision is a future where climate justice prevails, powered by clean energy, fortified by strong community safeguards, and guided by a just and equitable transition for all.

Ban Subscription Traps

I am committed to protecting consumers, especially in the digital marketplace where subscription models have become ubiquitous. We need to ensure that companies offer a transparent, user-friendly process for subscription cancellation, respecting consumer autonomy and choice. Consumer rights don’t end after clicking the “subscribe” button. It’s unjust for companies to profit from deliberately convoluted cancellation processes, trapping consumers in unwanted subscriptions. I want to ensure that digital and contractual services are fair, transparent, and consumer-friendly. If you signed up online or through an app, you should be able to unsubscribe the same way. Simple as that.

Marijuana Legalization

I support the federal legalization of marijuana, recognizing its importance in reforming our criminal justice system, stimulating economic growth, and addressing past injustices. However, I also believe in the rights of states to make individual determinations on this issue, allowing them to act in the best interest of their residents and to reflect local values and concerns.

While advocating for federal legalization, I acknowledge the legitimate health concerns associated with the consumption of any drug, including marijuana. It is crucial to approach its legalization with a focus on education, regulation, and responsible use, ensuring that individuals are informed of the risks and safe consumption practices.

Comparatively, it’s important to recognize that marijuana has been shown to be exponentially less harmful and dangerous than alcohol, a substance that is legally consumed and regulated across the country. The criminalization of marijuana disproportionately affects communities of color and has contributed to the over-incarceration of countless individuals for non-violent drug offenses.

Expand EV Infrastructure Nationwide

I am committed to accelerating the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) as a cornerstone of our environmental and energy strategy. Recognizing the critical role of infrastructure in scaling up the EV market, I support a bold federal initiative to rapidly expand the U.S. EV charging infrastructure. This policy position is not just about bolstering the convenience of owning an EV; it’s about laying the groundwork for a sustainable transportation future.

To achieve this, I advocate for significant federal investment in a nationwide network of EV charging stations, aiming to eliminate range anxiety and make EV ownership accessible and practical for all Americans, regardless of where they live or travel. This includes urban centers, rural areas, and everything in between, ensuring that EV charging stations are as common and convenient as traditional gas stations.

Universal Net Metering

I believe in universal net metering to ensure that everyone can contribute to and benefit from clean energy, making the generation and sale of electricity accessible and equitable. Clean energy is not just an environmental imperative but a significant economic opportunity. I advocate for democratizing electricity generation and sales, promoting initiatives like community solar to empower individuals and businesses.