I started my career in the Multnomah County District Attorney's office pursuing justice for victims of child abuse and domestic violence. I taught in the Criminal Justice Department at Portland Community College for over a decade. I was appointed to the Psychiatric Security Review Board by Governor Kulongoski and served 8 years. I have been involved with many non-profits and most recently served as the Board Chair for Transition Projects, a non-profit working to advance individual solutions to homelessness.
For the last four years, I have been serving you in Salem as the Senator from Senate District 14, representing Beaverton and Southwest Portland. I am running for re-election to continue building a better Oregon for all Oregonians. I am proud of the work my office has done to address the top issues affecting Oregonians, but I recognize the work is not finished. If I am re-elected, I will continue to bolster and improve our behavioral health system, address the root causes of the housing and homelessness crises, protect our environment, and ensure we have strong schools that support our students.
Fighting for Our Families
As a breast cancer survivor, I know what it means to face obstacles head-on, and to beat the odds. Despite setbacks, I know I’ve been fortunate. I am deeply committed to fighting for every family to make ends meet or just to survive. I will fight to get results for everyone.
I believe strongly that Oregon is better than most places, but “better than most” is not my measuring stick. I envision an Oregon that provides great schools, clean air and water, and a strong economy for all people. Oregon should be a place that doesn’t leave anyone behind.