If You Lose…

If you lose the election, will you accept the results or challenge them? It appears that many of your backers, viewpoints and talking points align with the current MAGA movement. I hope you will accept them if you happen to not win.

Of course I will accept the voters’ decision. I’m genuinely curious which of my viewpoints or talking points you consider “MAGA.” My views have been shaped by my personal and professional experiences, my education, and my commitment to keep learning and growing as a person.

I see Eureka and Humboldt County as a whole as a magical place. It is special here not only for the beautiful landscape but also for the people who live here. I believe people with different beliefs, backgrounds, and cultures should all strive to work together and collaborate with one another to make the community stronger.

I understand struggle firsthand. I spent several months homeless at 20, lost my father at 25. I was a single mom on welfare at 27. At 30, I put myself through the police academy while raising three children, then ages one, three, and five, working four jobs most of my career. I worked the graveyard shift for more than 15 years and worked incredibly hard to build a successful career in a male-dominated field. I’m a survivor who became a warrior.

I’ve spent nearly half my life in public service, responding to what others run from, speaking up for people who can’t speak for themselves, and standing beside people at the lowest moments in their lives. I’ve seen the very worst that people can do to themselves and to one another. Yet, I still continue to look for and believe the best in people.

I believe everyone deserves respect and consideration. Everyone’s rights matter all of the time and at the same time, not just the rights of the loudest voices or largest groups.

I believe a handout is necessary and compassionate when someone needs immediate help, but that most people benefit from a hand up: the skills, tools, and support they need to succeed and build a life where they can thrive successfully on their own.

I believe in accountability and encouragement for growth, alongside acceptance and Grace. Above all, I believe that love and kindness, and sometimes just a smile can heal the human soul.

Those are some of the experiences and values behind my viewpoints. Thank you so much for the opportunity to clarify those for you.