Protecting Cultural and Tribal Heritage

I strongly support federal policies that prioritize the preservation of historic and culturally significant sites, particularly those vital to local Indigenous tribes. Legislation like the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) play crucial roles in ensuring that federally-funded projects account for the historic and cultural importance of these locations. These laws provide tribes, and citizens as a whole, with the opportunity to have input into the decision-making process through Section 106 reviews.

As we implement transformative projects funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, it’s essential that we don’t overlook the cultural and historical significance of the land. The process of evaluating potential impacts on tribal lands and culturally important sites must be thorough, transparent, and, most importantly, respectful. By protecting these sites, we honor the history, culture, and sovereignty of our Indigenous communities.

I pledge to work toward strengthening these review processes, ensuring they are fully supported and funded, so that the voices of our tribal nations are heard and their heritage is preserved for future generations. Federal planning should never sacrifice cultural integrity for development, and I will continue to push for policies that protect these invaluable resources.

Modernizing our Supply Chain Infrastructure

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in America’s supply chain infrastructure, leading to delays, shortages, and increased costs of goods. To reduce costs and improve efficiency, the federal government needs to invest in modernizing our supply chain infrastructure, from manufacturing to transportation.

I will fight to:

  • Invest in Transportation Infrastructure: Increase federal investment in ports, railways, and highways to streamline the transportation of goods across the country. This would reduce delays and costs associated with moving goods, making essential items like food, medicine, and consumer goods more affordable.
  • Support Domestic Manufacturing: Encourage domestic production of essential goods by offering tax incentives for companies that manufacture critical items like food, electronics, and pharmaceuticals within the U.S. Reducing reliance on international supply chains would reduce vulnerabilities and lower shipping costs.
  • Improve Technology and Logistics: Expand federal support for upgrading supply chain technology, such as blockchain and real-time tracking systems, which would improve efficiency and transparency in the movement of goods.

A modernized supply chain would ensure a smoother flow of goods, lower costs for consumers, and greater resilience against disruptions. It would also support job creation in manufacturing and logistics industries in Louisiana and across the U.S.

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.

Beautification As A Crime Fighter

Investing in the beautification of underserved communities is more than an aesthetic choice—it’s a strategy to enhance quality of life, foster community pride, and reduce crime.

Such efforts not only enhance the physical appearance of an area but also foster a sense of pride and ownership among residents. This heightened community spirit can lead to increased vigilance among those who live in the neighborhood, who are more likely to report crimes and cooperate with law enforcement, creating informal social control mechanisms that deter potential offenders. Additionally, beautification and environmental design can incorporate natural surveillance strategies, such as improved lighting and clear sightlines, making it harder for criminal activities to go unnoticed. These strategies not only make spaces safer but also more inviting, increasing foot traffic and community activity, which further discourages criminal behavior.

Through thoughtful beautification efforts, our district can create environments where crime is less likely to flourish, supporting broader local goals of crime reduction and community well-being.

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.