For Democrats and Independents

 To all Citizens Registered Democratic or Independent:

My candidacy is not about politics; it's about what's right.

I believe strongly in the equal right of every American to be unique and special in his or her own way. No American has the right to tell any other American how to live his or her life, or who he or she has to be, or what he or she has to think. Our rights end where our neighbor’s nose begins, and we owe each other unquestioning mutual respect. The right of each and every citizen to be truly FREE to guide his or her own destiny is unshakable and fundamental to my philosophy of life, being a central force driving everything I do, say, and feel.

As an attorney practicing civil rights, I have fought hard to protect consumers and end discrimination and unfairness in the workplace, and believe in the democratic philosophy of inclusion of all people in our society. I was raised a democrat; virtually my entire extended family continues to be registered and vote that party line. I was engaged in action even as a youth with recycling, green projects, and concern about the earth long before it became fashionable or rose to the importance it has to our future now.

In a word, we need to respect each other, help each other, and work together as one nation toward the common goals of freedom and justice we all seek. In truth, I am blind when it comes to individual party affiliation.

I hold great compassion for all people, but at the same time believe everyone in our society owes a duty to pull his or her own weight and contribute. Those most worthy of compassion today are the workers, Americans who can't find a job, or those who labor every day for the betterment of their families but just can’t seem to get ahead. Our government should not force the workers to pay for those who will not carry their share of the load.

I am proud of my affiliation with the Republican party because I believe strongly in smaller government, lower taxes, and less spending. Despite the warnings of our founders, government has begun to turn on its own people, and that is a direction we must reverse.

Whether you believe in one party or another, or choose to stand independent, I think we can all agree that there must be balance within our Government because there is diversity in our nation. Some may feel President Obama is doing a good job, others may now question their decision. No matter where you stand, you should consider the importance of having all voices heard, and having someone like me who will question, read, and not rubber stamp bills presented for passage to balance the equation. I will make all decisions based on what is right, and have the courage to stand with, or against, my party based on these fundamental concepts. We are all in this fight together as one, UNITED, people.

My opponent, on the other hand, votes only one way:  99.1% of the time with Nancy Pelosi and the Democratic party. His 16years in office makes clear he has no ability to work together with anyone else.

I say this all with a deep-seated commitment to represent each and every person in my District with equal and unbiased enthusiasm. I truly welcome support from all sectors of our society, democrats, republicans, and independents alike, and will fight hard, blind to the labels we so unfairly assign to each other.