VOTE for Laura Pichardo!

I will advocate for:

- Policies that attract new industries and businesses to our district while keeping taxes low to encourage economic growth.

- For small businesses through grant programs and by advocating for access to resources that allow them to grow and create jobs in our communities.

I will vote to:

- advocate funding for our public schools, ensuring both rural and urban areas have the resources necessary to prepare students for the job market.

- Support initiatives that provide competitive salaries and benefits for teachers to attract and retain quality educators.

- Promote vocational and technical education programs that equip students with skills for high-demand careers.

I will vote to:

- Invest in improving infrastructure, including roads, public transportation, and utility systems, especially in rural areas of our district.

- Expand high-speed internet access to ensure that every community—urban and rural—has the connectivity needed for business, education, and healthcare.

I will vote to:

- Advocate for funding and policies that improve healthcare services in rural communities, including mental health and addiction support services.

I will vote to:

- Uphold the Constitution, ensuring that individual rights and freedoms are protected, including the right to free speech, the right to bear arms, and religious freedom.

- Support laws that ensure government transparency and accountability, keeping the public informed and involved in decision-making.

 I will vote to:

- Support a balanced state budget, ensuring taxpayer money is spent wisely and efficiently.

- Prioritize essential services while cutting unnecessary government spending to maintain a healthy economic outlook for our state.

  I will vote to:

- Advocate for policies and funding that support our farmers and the agricultural sector, which are vital to our district’s economy.

- Promote sustainable farming practices and expand access to markets for locally produced goods.

I will vote to:

- Strengthen our law enforcement agencies by ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to keep our communities safe.

- Support programs that build trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

I will vote to:

- Secure funding and resources that directly benefit rural communities, helping them overcome challenges related to healthcare, infrastructure, education, and economic development.

- Develop policies that address the unique needs of rural areas, ensuring they receive fair representation and opportunities for growth.

I believe we must focus on protecting our environment while ensuring that our economy remains strong. I would work to support clean energy initiatives, promote sustainable farming practices, and protect our natural resources like forests and waterways. It's important to find a balance between development and environmental preservation to ensure a healthy, thriving future for everyone in the state. Education and community involvement will also be key in addressing these challenges together.

I support keeping the current restrictions on abortion, passed by the Republican Majority in the North Carolina state legislature in 2023, which limit the procedure to 12 weeks. These laws reflect a thoughtful balance between valuing life and making room for necessary exceptions. Exceptions are cases such as rape, incest, and saving the life of the mother.

We should continue to show compassion by investing in programs like WIC, daycare, and Medicare to ensure that moms have the support and resources they need to care for themselves and their children. I grew up with support from the state with WIC, and Medicare. I value these two programs because of the benefits I received living in a low-income household when I was little.