Civil Rights

I believe that every American should have a voice in this country, regardless of the color of their skin, their gender, their sexual orientation or their religious creed. This great country was founded by people from many different nations and backgrounds, on the principle that we are all created equal. We honor their legacy with our diversity. When one person’s rights are threatened, everyone’s rights are diminished.

Women’s Rights

I fully support a woman’s right to control her own body. I do not support any further restrictions beyond the framework established by Roe V. Wade and Planned Parenthood V. Casey on a woman’s right to choose or her access to safe, affordable reproductive health services. I trust that women will make the right decisions for themselves and their families in consultation with their own medical and religious advisors. I believe that all Americans are afforded a right to privacy and the right to make personal decisions about their health care without coercion. Protecting women’s rights is essential for all Americans to achieve their own American Dream. As a Member of Congress I will work to guarantee that women are treated equally and fairly in all areas. This includes receiving equal pay for equal work.

LGBT Equality

The LGBT community is entitled to the same rights afforded to everyone else. My view on LGBT equality is rooted in love. While I was recovering at Walter Reed after being shot down in Iraq, my husband Bryan was at my bedside every day. Not only was he offering love and support during such a difficult time, but he was also making critical decisions for me that improved the quality of my life to this day. Often, those decisions were contrary to what my mother would have decided, but as my life partner, my husband knew me better and made the correct choices for me when I could not. I support the freedom to marry because everyone deserves the same level of access, support and love. As a Member of Congress, I will work tirelessly to support the LGBT community and push for total equality.

Workers’ Rights

When in Congress, I will to fight to rebuild our economy and create good jobs for American workers - jobs that give people the security to meet their needs and support their children. I know that unions have always been at the heart of protecting workers' rights. Collective bargaining and the right of workers to organize were fundamentally important to rebuilding the economy from the ground up after the Great Depression. They also helped build a strong middle class and helped develop America into a strong nation. I will protect these basic rights as a Member of Congress.