Editor’s note: these are the candidate’s responses to questions provided by RIPR. The views expressed are the candidate’s alone, edited only in cases of inappropriate or libelous language. No changes have been made to correct errors of fact, spelling or grammar.
Do you support trucking tolls for tractor trailers on Rhode Island highways?
No, I do not support the implementation of tolls on tractor trailers. It is not in our best interest to increase the cost of doing business in Rhode Island. Suppliers should not be penalized for traversing our state’s roads.
Would you support a state-mandated health insurance program?
No, I would not support a state-mandated health insurance program. Government should not force people to purchase a good or service against their will. We need to ensure that the principle of personal freedom on which our nation was founded remains intact.
Are you in favor of expanding protections against sexual harassment to include domestic workers (such as nannies) and volunteers (such as interns)?
Yes, I am in favor of expanding protections against sexual harassment to include all workers. Laws concerning workers should apply equally to all workers, and if elected I would work to extend existing protections to those not currently covered. Frankly, I find it puzzling that the original law was drafted with such a glaring gap.
If given the opportunity, would you codify the right to have an abortion in state law?
If given the opportunity, I would permit abortion prior to fetal viability. Furthermore, I would broaden current law to allow abortion at any time in cases of rape and incest, in addition to the current allowance in situations where the mother’s health is at risk. However, I would not permit the use of state funds to pay for an abortion.
Is the state doing enough to help people who have been left behind by the economy? If not, what additional steps should be taken?
The state can best help those struggling financially by doing nothing. The free market works! Rhode Island’s unemployment rate is the lowest it’s been in 17 years, and there’s no sense in fixing what isn’t broken.
Does primary education need to be improved statewide? If so, how?
Rhode Island’s schools are in the middle of the pack nationwide when comparing standardized test scores. We can do better. I would end special education programs after the 8th grade and reallocate those funds towards improving high school programs for our best and brightest students. Our most gifted students are the future leaders of our state’s industry and government and deserve all the resources we can give them.
Do you support RI’s designation as a sanctuary state? Why or why not?
No, I do not support Rhode Island’s designation as a sanctuary state. While I support unrestricted immigration (except for those with prior criminal records), I do not believe that Rhode Island should ignore federal law while it is on the books. I would love to see the United States government open our borders, but states do not have the authority to nullify federal policy.
