Mel Tull

It’s not enough for candidates and politicians to care about the issues – we need real, actionable plans. That includes a willingness to work for bipartisan solutions, promote transparency and civility in public discourse, and build consensus among all constituencies. However, that willingness to reach across the aisle ends when party politics or actions cross the line, and I’ll never be afraid to stand up for my constituents.

Protect 401(k) and other retirement savings programs, Social Security, and Medicare. Protect Medicaid, SNAP, and other social safety nets for children, disabled individuals, and people living in poverty. Reduce the federal deficit and balance the budget. Reduce inflation, interest rates, the cost of healthcare, housing and the costs of everyday living. Foster stable economic growth and reduce economic uncertainty. Address wealth inequality through public education and workforce training. Expand the child tax credit. Support paid family leave and childcare subsidies. Pursue targeted, well-informed spending cuts rather than impulsive, sweeping reductions. Simplify the tax code.