Georgia's 1st Congressional District election, 2026

Every person who works in Georgia’s 1st Congressional District should be able to live and thrive here. Families are being priced out by rising housing costs, low wages, and lack of investment in our communities. I will fight to raise wages, expand affordable housing, and ensure federal resources flow directly into Southeast Georgia. Our economy should center working families, not just corporations, and every worker deserves a fair chance to build stability where they live and work. Affordable living means dignity, security, and the ability to put down roots in the place we call home.

Every child deserves a quality education that leads to opportunity. From early learning to high school, college, or technical training, we must invest in our children and prepare them for good-paying jobs right here at home. In Congress, I will fight to fully fund public schools, support teachers, expand universal pre-K, and strengthen apprenticeships and workforce development programs. Education is the foundation of strong communities and a strong economy, and I will work to ensure every student in Georgia’s 1st District has the tools to succeed.

In Georgia’s 1st District, cuts to funding and resources are putting a strain on care for families, seniors, and veterans. Too many residents struggle with long waits, high costs, or limited access to doctors close to home. I will fight to expand Medicaid, strengthen veteran services, and lower out-of-pocket costs so healthcare is affordable and accessible for every family in Southeast Georgia. No one should have to leave their community or risk financial ruin to get the care they need. Healthcare is a human right, and I will work to protect it.

"This campaign isn't about left vs. right. It's about right vs. wrong. We need leaders who won't sell us out — who'll show up in every corner of this district, not just when it's convenient or politically safe. While my likely opponent Jim Kingston may have his father's name and Wall Street connections, I have something more valuable: real experience helping working families and small businesses survive

"I wasn't born into politics. I was born into struggle. I've punched a clock. I've swept shop floors. I've also sat at boardroom tables. I know what it means to fight your way up — and I'm running to fight for the folks who are being left behind by both parties."

Common Ground, Uncommon Results Common sense solutions for working people

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Hands Off Our Earned Benefits!

President Trump and the GOP gave Elon Musk and his unqualified “DOGE team” unprecedented access to vital institutions—while slashing Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, the VA, and public services. Why? To fund tax breaks for billionaires. That’s not reform—it’s betrayal. These programs aren’t bargaining chips. We paid into them with every paycheck. Hands off. If elected, I’ll restore funding, reverse cuts, and ensure professionals—not cronies—run these services. I’ll fight to protect Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and the VA—because these promises must be kept. The stakes are high. Let’s defend what’s ours.

Rule of Law: Under Threat Trump attacked judges, politicized the DOJ, defied oversight, spread election lies, and pardoned allies—all while encouraging lawlessness and punishing whistleblowers. His actions eroded public trust and undermined our democracy.

As your Representative, I’ll fight to: • Strengthen congressional oversight • Reinforce DOJ independence • Protect whistleblowers and inspectors general • Ensure accountability—no one is above the law • Defend free and fair elections • Promote civic education

The rule of law is not optional—it’s the foundation of our republic. Let’s defend it together.

Money Out of Our Politics! Our democracy is under threat from oligarchic control. Corporate PACs, dark money, and billionaire donors drown out everyday Americans. That’s not just unjust—it’s un-American.

My Commitment: Get Money Out of Politics If elected, I will: • Ban corporate PACs and dark money • Support a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United • Push for publicly funded elections to elevate small-dollar donors • Enforce real-time transparency in all political donations • Reform lobbying and close the revolving door in Washington

It’s time to put people over profits and return our democracy to the voters.

I am personally passionate about economic equity and ensuring our policies reflect the needs of working families. I believe we must reframe the tax code and federal legislation to lift people out of poverty while protecting and strengthening the middle class. Too many families in Southeast Georgia are working harder than ever yet struggling to get ahead. I want to see a tax system that rewards work, not just wealth, and investments that prioritize housing, wages, healthcare, and education. My focus is on building an economy where opportunity is accessible, stability is possible, and prosperity is shared across our communities.

Working for Working People

Raising wages, protecting jobs & investing in local training Saving Our Rural Hospitals Four Hospitals at risk Fighting for funding to keep care local Veterans First, Not Last Fixing the VA, expanding access, backing our veterans with real support Fixing Our Roads & Ports Strengthening infrastructure at home before we rebuild overseas Balancing the Budget Without Breaking The Working Class Cutting Waste

Not food, medicine, or education

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I am passionate about loss of our earned benefits and the erosion of safety nets that protect our weakest citizens. I am also passionate about the erosion of the rule of law, including masked ICE agents kidnapping people and imprisoning or deporting them without due process. I am passionate about fixing a broken bought-and-paid-for Supreme Court that wants to take away a woman's right to her own body and grant Trump the power of a king. I am passionately against the out in the open graft and corruption the president and his family engage in on a daily basis. I am passionate about getting the money out of politics. Billionaires need to pay their taxes and get out of our government! I passionately believe it is time for a change!

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Who I Look Up To — And Why

I look up to Representative John Lewis, not just because he was from Georgia, but because he lived his values with courage, humility, and an unshakable sense of justice. He believed in good trouble — and he never forgot who he was fighting for: everyday people.

Like Lewis, I believe public service is about standing up for the vulnerable, even when it's unpopular or risky. He didn’t serve billionaires or corporate PACs — he served the people. His example reminds me that real leadership means showing up, telling the truth, and never backing down when working families are under attack.

I also draw inspiration from Bernie Sanders, who has spent his entire career fighting against oligarchy, corporate greed, and a political system rigged against the working class. He’s proof that you can tell the truth, take no corporate money, and still build a powerful movement.

These are the examples I want to follow — leaders who believed in dignity, justice, and organizing ordinary people to take on the powerful. Because that’s what it’s going to take to change Georgia’s 1st District — and this country.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Book: The People, No by Thomas Frank

This is a powerful history of American populism—what it really means, how it's been distorted, and how ordinary people have fought back against elite control. It’s a great lens for understanding my belief in bottom-up politics, not billionaire-backed movements.

Film: Matewan (1987, directed by John Sayles) This dramatization of a 1920s coal miners’ strike in West Virginia shows the raw power of labor solidarity and the lengths corporations will go to crush it. It captures the spirit of the “noligarchy” movement I talk about: working people banding together against exploitation.

Essay: “Economic Inequality” by Bernie Sanders (2020) A short but fiery read, this essay lays out the moral and structural dangers of oligarchy in America. It aligns with my stance that concentrated wealth is incompatible with a healthy democracy.

Book: Democracy in Chains by Nancy MacLean This book exposes the long campaign by libertarian billionaires to undermine democratic institutions in favor of corporate rule. It’s eye-opening and explains a lot about how we got here—and why we need to fight back.

These works don’t just inform my politics—they affirm the idea that change starts with organized people, not organized money.

I believe the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and a commitment to service. Public office is not about personal ambition or partisan loyalty; it is about representing the people with honesty and courage. An effective leader must listen first, act with transparency, and always put community needs ahead of political games.

For me, that means staying rooted in the everyday realities of the people of Georgia’s 1st District. Families here want the same things: good schools, affordable healthcare, fair wages, and the ability to build stability in the communities where they live and work. An elected official should champion policies that make that possible. That requires courage to challenge systems that favor corporations over workers, and the vision to create legislation that reduces poverty, strengthens the middle class, and expands opportunity.

I also believe humility and accessibility are critical. Leaders should be present in their districts, open to feedback, and willing to adjust course when policies are not serving people well. Democracy works best when elected officials see themselves as servants, not gatekeepers.

Finally, resilience and foresight matter. Our district faces challenges from climate change to rising costs, and we need leaders prepared to tackle long-term problems with practical solutions. To me, the guiding principle is simple: always put people first. If every decision starts from that foundation, we can restore trust in government and deliver real progress for Southeast Georgia.

1. Integrity

• Tells the truth, keeps their word, and acts in the public’s interest—even when it’s not easy. • Resists corruption and self-dealing.

2. Accountability • Owns their decisions, admits mistakes, and doesn’t pass blame. • Is transparent with the public, especially about votes, funding, and priorities.

3. Empathy • Listens to constituents with compassion and curiosity—not judgment. • Advocates for people who are often ignored, even when there’s no political upside.

4. Common Sense & Practicality • Focuses on solutions that can get done, not just what sounds good on a bumper sticker. • Seeks bipartisan or broad support where possible.

5. Courage • Stands up for what’s right, even under pressure from powerful donors, party leaders, or political winds. • Doesn’t just follow polls—leads with principle.

6. Work Ethic • Shows up, reads the bills, talks to people, and puts in the time to understand complex issues. • Treats public service as a job, not a title.

7. Respect for Institutions & Democracy • Fights for fair elections, the rule of law, and peaceful transfer of power—regardless of party advantage. • Understands that power is borrowed from the people, not owned.

8. Community Connection • Doesn’t forget where they came from—and brings those life lessons with them to Congress.

• Values town halls, listening sessions, and spending time outside the D.C. bubble.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

The most important characteristics and principles for an elected official can be summed up in a few core values:

Integrity – An elected official must tell the truth, keep their word, and act in the public’s best interest—even when it’s inconvenient or unpopular. Without integrity, trust breaks down, and democracy suffers.

Accountability – Public servants must answer to the people they represent. That means being transparent, accessible, and willing to admit when they’re wrong or when something isn’t working.

Courage – It takes real courage to stand up to powerful interests, to call out corruption, and to vote your conscience—especially when the political winds are blowing the other way.

Empathy – Good leaders listen. They don’t just hear from the wealthy or well-connected—they make it a point to hear from working people, the marginalized, the struggling, and the overlooked.

Work Ethic – Government is not a show or a stepping stone. It’s hard work. An elected official must show up, do their homework, stay engaged, and fight every day for their constituents.

Commitment to Justice and Equality – Every decision should be guided by the principle that everyone deserves a fair shot, equal protection, and a voice in shaping their future—regardless of race, wealth, gender, or background.

Respect for Democracy and the Rule of Law – Officials must honor the Constitution, respect the separation of powers, and protect the institutions that safeguard our freedoms—even when those institutions limit their own power.

Ultimately, elected officials should never forget who they work for: the people. Not donors, not lobbyists, not party leaders—the people.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

What Makes Me Ready to Serve

I’m not a career politician — I’m a working-class person who knows what it means to live under policies written by and for the rich. That lived experience grounds me in a few key qualities that I believe would make me a successful representative:

Authenticity I say what I mean, and I don’t sugarcoat the truth. People are tired of spin. They want someone who speaks plainly, honestly, and with conviction.

Accountability to the People — Not the Powerful I’m not taking corporate PAC money. My campaign is powered by working people — and that’s exactly who I’ll answer to in office.

Courage I’m not afraid to confront the oligarchy, challenge the status quo, or take on powerful interests — whether it’s insurance companies, union-busters, or billionaire donors.

Empathy I’ve listened to people’s struggles, and I’ve lived some of them myself. I’ll bring that perspective into every vote and every fight.

Work Ethic I show up. Whether it’s at protests, town halls, or picket lines, I believe being present and doing the work matters — and I won’t stop once I’m elected.

Organizing Mindset

I don’t believe change comes from the top down — it comes from the bottom up. I’ll use my office not just to vote, but to help organize people, build coalitions, and win real victories.

The core responsibilities of a Member of Congress are to represent the people of their district, legislate in the public interest, and provide oversight of the federal government. First and foremost, representation means listening to constituents, understanding their needs, and ensuring that the voices of everyday families not just special interests are heard in Washington.

A representative must also legislate responsibly, advancing policies that strengthen the economy, expand opportunity, and improve quality of life. For Georgia’s 1st District, that means fighting for fully funded schools, affordable healthcare, living wages, investments in the Port of Savannah, and protections for our coastal communities from climate change. Federal legislation should reflect the values and priorities of the people it impacts, and it is the duty of an elected official to make sure our region’s concerns are at the center of those decisions.

Another core responsibility is oversight, holding federal agencies accountable for delivering services effectively and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely. From supporting veterans to protecting Social Security and Medicare, members of Congress must guard the programs that working families rely on.

Finally, elected officials must act with transparency, accessibility, and integrity. This office is a public trust, and it requires not only policy leadership but also responsiveness, being present in the district, keeping open lines of communication, and making government more accessible to the people it serves.

What legacy would you like to leave?

The core responsibilities of a U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 1st District are grounded in service, accountability, and advocacy for the people who call this diverse region home.

First and foremost, a Representative must be a voice for their constituents. That means listening—not just to donors or political insiders, but to working families, veterans, small business owners, farmers, union members, students, and retirees. It means showing up in every corner of the district—from Savannah to Waycross, Brunswick to Hinesville—and making sure no community is left unheard or behind.

Second, a Representative must legislate with integrity and courage. This includes drafting, supporting, or opposing laws that directly impact people’s lives—on issues like health care, jobs, infrastructure, education, environmental protection, and veterans’ services. In a district like ours, that means fighting to protect coastal communities from climate change, securing funding for rural health care and transportation, defending Social Security and Medicare, and investing in public schools and good-paying jobs.

Third, a Representative must serve as a watchdog and a check on corruption and abuse of power. The job is not just to pass laws—it’s to uphold the Constitution, ensure accountability, and protect our democracy from threats both foreign and domestic.

Finally, a Representative must be accessible, transparent, and responsive. That means holding regular town halls, answering calls and emails, and being honest—even when the truth is hard to hear.

Ultimately, this job is about public service—not self-service. It’s about putting the people of Georgia’s 1st District first, every single day.

The legacy I want to leave is one of service, integrity, and impact. I want to be remembered as a representative who put people first, who listened to the voices of Southeast Georgia, and who used her position to deliver real change for families, workers, and communities.

I hope my legacy shows that leadership is not about titles, but about lifting others up, making sure a child in a rural county has access to a quality education, that a veteran can get the healthcare they need without barriers, that working families can afford to live in the communities they serve, and that every person’s right to vote is protected.

I also want to leave a legacy of breaking barriers. Just as Shirley Chisholm and Barbara Jordan paved the way, I hope my service as the first Black woman elected to represent Georgia’s 1st Congressional District will inspire the next generation to lead with courage, clarity, and conviction.

Ultimately, I want my legacy to be that I left my community and my country stronger, fairer, and more hopeful for those who come after me.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The Legacy I Want to Leave

I want to leave a legacy of standing up — unapologetically — for working people in a system that’s been rigged against them for too long.

If I can help shift power away from billionaires and corporate lobbyists and back into the hands of ordinary people — union workers, public employees, teachers, parents, veterans, and small business owners — then I’ll know I did something right.

I want to be remembered as someone who fought for justice, not status. Someone who told the truth, even when it was unpopular. Someone who used every ounce of political capital to deliver dignity, wages, healthcare, and freedom to the people who built this country — and have been ignored for far too long.

Ultimately, I want my legacy to show that you don’t have to sell out to win, and you don’t have to play along to make a difference. You just have to serve the people — and never forget who sent you.

9/11 was in the 6th grade

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

The Bicentennial of the United States (July 4, 1976)

Age: 6

This was a huge, celebratory event across the country — red, white, and blue everywhere, parades, fireworks, and patriotic programming. I remember this because it was festive and very visible, and they made a special quarter just for that year.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My First Job: Lessons from the Lanes

My very first job was at a local bowling alley called Bowling Green, a place that fancied itself a little more upscale than your typical alley. I was just 15 years old. It was 1985, and this place was proud of its modern lanes, computerized scoring (which was cutting-edge at the time), and a menu that included things like mulligan stew served in a bread bowl — at airport prices, of course.

My job? A little bit of everything. I helped customers get their games started on the new computer systems — something that confused a lot of folks, especially the older crowd. I emptied ashtrays constantly (smoking indoors was still very much a thing), and I ran a Hoky floor sweeper around the place to keep things looking clean. I made minimum wage — $3.35 an hour — and it was enough to keep gas in the tank (I had my learner’s permit), and to feed my growing collection of cassette tapes and record albums.

There were perks, too. I got to bowl at a heavily discounted rate, and eventually bought myself a custom ball and case. I got better with time — never great, but not terrible either. The alley had an arcade and a pool table, so I spent a lot of off-hours playing Tempest and shooting pool, learning geometry the fun way.

I wasn’t especially close with my coworkers, but the job taught me a lot — especially about working with the public. A good half of the job was customer service, and I learned early on the value of patience, especially with people who struggled with technology (something that still feels relevant today). I learned how to show up on time, how to follow directions, and how to take pride in doing a job well, even when it wasn’t glamorous.

Eventually, I left that job to spend a summer in San Diego laying carpet with my uncle — a whole different kind of hard work. I was only there about 5 mos., but the memories from Bowling Green have stuck with me. That first job didn’t just help me buy music and gas — it helped me grow up.

My favorite book is Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower. I have always been drawn to futurism, but what I admire most about this book is how it blends imagination with hard truths about society, survival, and resilience. Butler’s vision is rooted in reality, it shows us a future shaped by inequality, climate change, and political division, but also by the strength of community and the courage to imagine something better. For me, Parable of the Sower is not just a work of fiction, it is a call to think boldly about the challenges ahead while staying grounded in the struggles people face today. It reminds me that leadership means preparing for the future, even when the present feels overwhelming, and that hope and vision are powerful tools for creating change.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

My favorite book is A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn — and not just because I got to meet him in 1998 in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he signed my copy (though that was unforgettable). It’s my favorite because it completely changed the way I understood history — and power.

Zinn doesn’t tell the story of presidents and generals. He tells the story of workers, Indigenous people, enslaved people, immigrants, women, and ordinary folks who resisted injustice in all its forms. He flips the script and shows how real change has always come from the bottom up — not from the halls of power, but from the streets, the picket lines, and the communities who refused to be silent.

That book made it clear to me that history isn’t just something that happens — it’s something people make. It’s a reminder that we’ve always had the power to fight back — and that our voices matter, even when we’re told they don’t.

Reading A People’s History didn’t just inform me — it radicalized me, in the best sense. It affirmed my belief that the systems we live under weren’t built for working people — and that it’s our responsibility to change them. That’s the spirit I carry into this campaign.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

If I Could Be Any Fictional Character

I’d want to be Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird.

Atticus stands for justice, fairness, and courage — even when the odds are stacked against him and the world around him is deeply unfair. He fights for what’s right with integrity, empathy, and a steady voice. Like him, I want to be a defender of the vulnerable and a champion for truth, no matter the pressure or opposition.

Atticus reminds me that real strength isn’t loud or flashy; it’s standing firm in your values and giving a voice to those who are often unheard. That’s the kind of leadership I want to bring to Georgia’s 1st District.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

The last song that got stuck in my head was “There’s Hope” by India Arie. I wasn’t looking for it — it just found me. I think I was driving, half-lost in thought, half-scanning the mess of headlines and to-do lists running through my brain. And then that voice came through the speakers:

“There’s hope… it doesn’t cost a thing to smile…”

I paused. Not physically — I kept driving — but something in me slowed down. The song isn’t flashy. It’s not angry. It’s not trying to win an argument. It’s just quietly, defiantly saying: you’re still here, and that means there’s still something worth fighting for.

That message landed hard. In a world where it feels like greed wins and power protects itself, that song reminded me of the strength in joy — especially when things are hard. The act of smiling, of holding onto hope, of believing in the dignity of every human being — it’s not naïve. It’s radical. Especially now.

That song stuck with me all day. And honestly, I’m glad it did. Because in this work — campaigning, organizing, trying to shift power back to the people — it’s easy to focus on the fight. But that song reminded me that hope isn’t a luxury — it’s a tool. It’s fuel.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

A Struggle That Shaped Me

One of the biggest struggles in my life has been trying to make a decent living in a system that too often sets working people up to fail. I’ve done hard, honest work — like laying carpet in the heat, working minimum-wage jobs, scraping by without safety nets. I even briefly worked the night shift at a chicken processing plant in Arkansas — and I still found myself fighting just to stay afloat, while watching billionaires rake in record profits.

It’s a deep kind of frustration to know you’re working harder than ever and still falling behind — not because you made bad choices, but because the rules were written by and for the wealthy. That struggle — the economic insecurity, the exhaustion, the indignity of being treated as disposable — it leaves a mark. And it’s what drives me to run.

I want to fight for a world where nobody has to work themselves into the ground just to survive. Where healthcare, housing, and a living wage aren’t luxuries. That struggle taught me empathy, grit, and a refusal to accept injustice as normal. It’s not just part of my story — it’s the reason I’m in this fight.

The U.S. House of Representatives is unique because it is the chamber closest to the people. With two-year terms and smaller districts, representatives must stay directly accountable to their constituents and responsive to community needs. Unlike the Senate, which is designed for longer deliberation, the House reflects the urgency, diversity, and immediacy of the nation’s concerns.

The House also holds the constitutional power of the purse, giving it a central role in shaping the federal budget and determining how taxpayer dollars are invested. That responsibility makes the House critical in ensuring funding priorities reflect the needs of working families, whether it’s public schools, healthcare, veterans’ services, or infrastructure.

Finally, the House’s large and diverse membership makes it a place where different voices, perspectives, and regions come together. At its best, it serves as a forum for debate, coalition-building, and bold ideas that can move the country forward.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

The U.S. House of Representatives is unique among American institutions for several key reasons:

It’s the People’s House The House was designed to be the most directly responsive to the public. Members serve two-year terms, making them more accountable to voters and more reflective of shifting public opinion.

Proportional Representation Unlike the Senate, which gives equal power to each state, the House is based on population. This means large states and densely populated areas have greater representation, giving more voice to where most Americans live and work.

Origin of All Spending Bills By constitutional design, all revenue and appropriations bills must begin in the House. That gives it enormous influence over how public money is raised and spent—making it central to the national agenda.

Broad Investigative Power The House holds sweeping investigative authority through its committees. From Watergate to January 6th, it has led many of the most consequential inquiries into executive abuse, corruption, and national scandals.

Impeachment Power Only the House has the power to impeach federal officials, including the President. This makes it a critical check on executive overreach and a defender of constitutional norms.

Larger and More Diverse

With 435 voting members, the House is far larger than the Senate, and over time, has become more racially, culturally, and ideologically diverse—bringing a broader range of voices into the legislative process.

I believe previous experience in government or politics can be beneficial, but it should not be the only measure of whether someone can serve effectively. Understanding the procedures of the U.S. House which are grounded in the Constitution, Jefferson’s Manual, and a long history of precedent, certainly helps. But no one enters Congress already proficient in every rule or tradition.

My own career reflects this balance. I have worked outside of elected office as a strategist and organizer, leading national and local campaigns that have pressured government and corporate leaders to act. That outsider perspective is valuable because it keeps the focus on accountability, transparency, and putting people—not politics—first. At the same time, my leadership at organizations like Color Of Change and When We All Vote has given me deep experience navigating policy, building coalitions, and turning bold ideas into action.

I also believe no representative does this work alone. Hiring sharp, capable staff who share a clear vision is critical to making sure an office serves constituents effectively. While experience is valuable, the qualities that matter most are integrity, the ability to listen, and the courage to lead with purpose.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Previous experience in government or politics can be beneficial—but it’s not essential. What truly matters is whether a representative understands the struggles of everyday people, has a strong moral compass, and is willing to fight for what’s right.

Yes, experience can help someone navigate the system, build coalitions, and craft effective policy. But too often, career politicians become insulated from the realities their constituents face. They start serving donors, not voters.

Real-world experience—working a job, raising a family, serving in the military, organizing in a union, running a small business, or fighting for a cause—can be just as valuable, if not more. It brings perspective, urgency, and authenticity.

Ultimately, we need representatives who are grounded in public service, not political ambition. Experience matters, but integrity, empathy, and courage matter more.

Over the next decade, I believe the greatest challenge our nation will face is economic stability and equity. With the implementation of the OBBBA, most experts in both economics and legislation predict lasting and devastating impacts that could take decades to overcome. Rising costs, weakened protections for working families, and shifts in federal investment will place enormous strain on households that are already struggling.

The challenge will be ensuring that the economy works for everyone, not just the wealthiest Americans. That means protecting the middle class, creating pathways out of poverty, and ensuring wages, housing, and healthcare remain accessible. It will also require reframing the tax code so that corporations and the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share, while working families can build security and stability.

If we do not act with urgency, the long-term consequences of these economic policies could erode opportunity, widen inequality, and destabilize communities. Meeting this challenge will take leadership committed to protecting everyday people and re-centering federal policy around workers, families, and small businesses.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Over the next decade, the United States faces a set of deeply interconnected challenges that will define our future—for better or worse.

Economic inequality is at crisis levels. Working people are producing more than ever, but wages have stagnated while billionaires and corporations hoard record profits. This imbalance is eroding the middle class and fueling resentment, instability, and division.

Climate change poses an urgent threat, especially in coastal regions like Georgia’s 1st District. Rising seas, extreme weather, and environmental degradation aren’t distant problems—they’re here now, threatening our communities, our economy, and our health.

Democratic erosion is another grave danger. From voter suppression to dark money, gerrymandering to attacks on the rule of law, we’ve seen how fragile our democratic institutions really are. Without bold action, we risk losing the very foundation of our republic.

Healthcare access remains out of reach for too many. Even with advancements in medicine, millions of Americans struggle to afford prescriptions, doctor visits, or insurance—despite working full-time jobs.

Corporate power and corruption continue to distort our priorities. When billionaires and special interests write the rules, everyday Americans get left behind. That’s not a democracy—it’s an oligarchy in disguise.

Finally, social division and disinformation are tearing at our national fabric. We need leadership that brings people together, not one that thrives on outrage, fear, and manufactured enemies.

The solutions to these challenges aren’t impossible—but they require courage, integrity, and a government that works for the many, not the few. That’s the fight ahead—and I’m ready for it.

I believe the two-year term length for members of the House made sense when it was written into the Constitution, but in today’s political climate, I think a four-year term would better serve both representatives and the people they represent.

A two-year cycle often cripples freshman members of Congress, who spend their first year just learning procedures, building relationships, and setting up their offices. By the time they are ready to fully legislate, they are already back in campaign mode. This structure creates an overreliance on senior members for influence and power, while keeping newer representatives in a perpetual cycle of fundraising and re-election.

Extending the term to four years would allow members to focus more on governing and less on constant campaigning. It would create space for deeper policy work, stronger constituent services, and more deliberate oversight of federal agencies. It could also strengthen voter engagement, since constituents would know their representative had more time to deliver results, and the role would be seen as carrying greater stability and responsibility.

While two-year terms were designed to keep representatives closely accountable to the people, in practice they now incentivize short-term thinking and political maneuvering. A four-year term would strike a better balance between accountability and effectiveness, ensuring that representatives have the time, independence, and capacity to focus on meaningful results.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

Two years is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it keeps representatives directly accountable to the people. It forces them to stay connected to their constituents and be responsive to changing needs.

But in practice, it also means constant campaigning, endless fundraising, and too little time focused on governing. It gives an advantage to incumbents and the wealthy, while making it harder for working-class candidates to break through.

So while two-year terms uphold democratic responsiveness, they also undermine long-term planning and reward short-term politics. The system could work better if paired with real reforms—like public campaign financing, fair redistricting, and term limits—to make it more accessible, less corrupt, and truly representative.

In short: two years can work, but not without fixing the broken incentives that come with it.

I believe term limits are an important part of ensuring accountability and fresh leadership in Congress, but they must also allow enough time for meaningful work to be done. Real change in Washington rarely happens overnight. Complex policy issues, whether healthcare, education, infrastructure, or climate resilience, often require years of sustained effort, coalition-building, and oversight to move from ideas into law.

That’s why I support a limit of six terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. One term is too short to create lasting change, and even a few terms may not provide enough time to fully see through legislation or deliver the federal investments our communities deserve. At the same time, no member of Congress should serve indefinitely. After a certain point, staying too long can create a disconnect from the people and an overreliance on seniority or entrenched interests.

Six terms strikes the right balance: it gives members the opportunity to build expertise, cultivate relationships, and shepherd long-term projects, while also ensuring that new voices and new energy continue to shape our democracy. Public service should be about results and accountability, not a career without end.

Support Term limits

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I support reasonable term limits as a way to prevent career politicians from becoming disconnected from the people they serve. Public office should be about service—not power, profit, or prestige. Term limits can help break the cycle of entrenched incumbency, reduce the influence of lobbyists, and open the door for new voices, working-class candidates, and genuine public servants. Fresh leadership keeps democracy healthy and accountable.

There are several leaders I look to as models for the kind of representative I want to be. Shirley Chisholm inspires me for her courage and determination to create legislation that gave voice to people who were often ignored. She showed that representation is not just about holding a seat but about using that seat to demand progress and visibility for underserved communities.

Barbara Jordan is another figure I admire deeply. As the first Black woman elected to Congress from the South, she broke barriers and opened doors for future generations. Her extraordinary speaking skills, bold actions, and unwavering commitment to justice remind me that leadership requires not only vision but also the ability to communicate that vision with clarity and conviction. I am motivated by her trailblazing path as I seek to become the first Black woman elected to represent Georgia’s 1st Congressional District.

I also see inspiration in current leaders like Maxwell Frost, whose work reflects a vision for the future. His energy, creativity, and ability to connect with younger generations show the importance of bringing new voices and fresh ideas into Congress. He represents a reminder that the fight for progress is ongoing and that leadership must continually evolve to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

From Chisholm’s bold legislation to Jordan’s historic breakthrough and powerful voice to Frost’s forward-looking vision, I hope to carry these same qualities into my own service: courage, clarity, and a commitment to building a better future for all.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Yes!

John Lewis embodied the highest ideals of public service: moral courage, nonviolent resistance, relentless advocacy for justice, and unwavering loyalty to the people over power. He didn’t just serve in Congress—he lived his values, from the Edmund Pettus Bridge to the House floor.

He believed in "good trouble"—necessary disruption in the face of injustice—and he never stopped fighting for voting rights, civil rights, and dignity for all. He showed that leadership is about sacrifice, not self-promotion.

In my time as an organizer and advocate, I have had the privilege of hearing countless personal stories from people across Georgia and beyond. What has always struck me most is not a single story, but the consistent courage people show when they speak up in moments of true vulnerability.

I have listened to parents share the heartbreak of struggling to afford healthcare for their children, workers speak out about unsafe conditions on the job, and seniors describe the fear of choosing between medicine and rent. Each story carries its own weight, but together they form a powerful reminder of why leadership matters.

For me, the impact comes from the act of storytelling itself, the boldness it takes for someone to share their lived experience in the hope of creating change. That kind of bravery fuels movements, shifts public opinion, and shapes legislation. As a candidate and future representative, I carry those voices with me. They remind me that policy is never abstract; it is about real people, real lives, and the struggles and hopes of our communities.

It is those collective voices, ordinary people speaking their truth, that continue to move me and strengthen my commitment to fight for Southeast Georgia.

Tell us your favorite joke.

A Story That Stuck With Me

Not long ago, in my capacity as a local union representative, I met a public school paraprofessional in a school in Savannah — a woman in her 60s who’s been working with special-needs students for over 30 years. She told me that even after decades of service, she can’t afford to retire, and her health insurance barely covers her medication. She loves her students like family, but she’s exhausted. She said to me, “I gave my life to this district. What did I get back?”

That hit me hard. Because it’s not just her story — it’s the story of millions of people who did everything right: they worked hard, played by the rules, and still got left behind while billionaires hoard the rewards. And to make matters worse, Republican-led state legislatures block them from even bargaining collectively with their fellow school employees for fair pay and decent benefits.

That conversation reminded me that this campaign isn’t about abstract policies — it’s about real people who deserve dignity, respect, and a government that finally fights for them.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

A billionaire, a teacher, and a warehouse worker sit at a table with a dozen donuts.

The billionaire grabs 11 of them, then turns to the teacher and says:

“Better watch out — that warehouse worker’s coming for your donut.”

Yes, I believe compromise is both necessary and desirable in policymaking, but it matters what we are compromising for. Too often in Washington, compromise has become a way to protect self-interest, maintain the status quo, or water down solutions so much that communities see little real change. That kind of compromise leaves people behind.

I believe compromise should be about putting people first. It should be the tool that allows us to bring different voices to the table, find common ground, and move bold ideas forward. The goal of compromise should not be to delay progress but to make sure progress is real, durable, and reflective of the needs of everyday Americans.

In Congress, I will work with anyone who is committed to solving problems for working families, whether that’s lowering healthcare costs, strengthening schools, or protecting our coastal communities. True compromise is not about scoring partisan wins, it’s about investing in the people we serve and building a vision for a stronger, fairer country.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

Yes, I believe compromise is both necessary and desirable in policymaking—when all parties are acting in good faith. But compromise has limits. We cannot negotiate with those who undermine democracy, promote authoritarianism, or push policies rooted in hate and oppression. There’s no middle ground when it comes to fascism.

The Constitution gives the House the responsibility to originate all revenue bills, and I see this as one of the most important tools for shaping an economy that works for everyone. Too often, revenue has been raised on the backs of the middle class and working families, while the wealthiest Americans and large corporations use loopholes and special carve-outs to avoid paying their fair share. That imbalance has widened inequality and left many families in Southeast Georgia struggling just to keep up.

If elected, I would use this constitutional authority to help reframe the tax code around fairness and equity. That means ensuring the ultra-wealthy and large corporations contribute proportionately, while easing the burden on the middle class and creating pathways out of poverty. It also means protecting programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, which working families have paid into and depend on.

Revenue should not be about punishing hard work, it should be about rewarding it. By using the House’s power to originate tax legislation, I would prioritize policies that invest in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and housing, while holding those at the very top accountable. We can build a system where opportunity is accessible, stability is possible, and prosperity is shared, but it starts with fair and just revenue policy.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The House’s “Power of the Purse” is a tool for working people.

Under Article I, Section 7 of the Constitution, all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House of Representatives. That means as a member of the House, I would have a frontline role in shaping how and from whom the government collects money — and how that money serves the people.

Our current Republican-led House of Representatives seems to have abdicated this power and given it to the Executive Branch.

If I am elected, this power will become a tool to:

Prioritize working families over billionaires I will fight to shift the tax burden off the working class and ensure that the ultra-wealthy, giant corporations, and Wall Street finally pay their fair share.

Fund the programs our community needs Whether it’s fully funding public schools, expanding rural healthcare, preventing planned cuts in Medicaid or protecting Social Security and Medicare, I’ll have direct input on how federal dollars are raised and where they go.

Block tax schemes that hurt our district I can oppose and stop regressive tax bills that benefit the rich at the expense of everyday Georgians — because those bills must pass through the House first.

Demand a moral budget

With the power to influence revenue bills, I will insist on a budget that reflects working-class values — not one written by lobbyists for billionaires and defense contractors.

The U.S. House of Representatives holds a unique responsibility to use its investigative powers as a check on corruption, abuse of power, and misconduct within government and public institutions. Oversight is not about partisanship; it is about protecting the public interest and ensuring accountability at the highest levels.

We have seen too many moments in recent history where this responsibility has been ignored or undermined. The failure to fully investigate the networks of power and influence surrounding Jeffrey Epstein left serious questions about accountability unanswered. We have also seen how the Department of Justice and other agencies have, at times, been pressured or politicized, raising concerns about whether they are serving justice or political interests. And we continue to see the long shadow of appointees from the Trump administration, many of whom made decisions that undermined democratic norms and weakened public trust.

The House must take its investigative role seriously, digging into not only financial and ethical misconduct but also structural failures that allow abuse to persist. These investigations should not be used as political theater but as a tool to uncover the truth, restore accountability, and protect the American people. Transparency, oversight, and a commitment to facts are what keep our democracy strong, and the House has both the authority and obligation to use its powers in that way.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

The House of Representatives has the constitutional authority to investigate any issue within the scope of federal legislation — and this power should be used boldly, responsibly, and in service of the public good. If elected, I would support using this power to:

Hold the powerful accountable Congress must investigate corporate corruption, tax evasion, price-gouging, union-busting, environmental abuse, out-in-the-open corruption, and the exploitation of working people — not just in theory, but in practice. No CEO, billionaire, or former president should be above the law.

Expose government failure and abuse Investigative power is essential to uncovering waste, fraud, mismanagement, and human rights violations in federal agencies — whether it's within ICE, the VA, the Department of Defense, or any other institution.

Protect democracy from threats The House must investigate efforts to undermine elections, spread disinformation, or incite political violence — no matter who’s responsible. Defending democracy requires more than speeches; it demands action.

Advance real solutions Investigations should not be political theater — they should lead to legislation. When investigations reveal broken systems, Congress has a duty to fix them with new laws, protections, and oversight.

Shine a light on what’s hidden from the public From wage theft to toxic pollution, so much harm happens in the shadows. Investigations are how the people’s House brings the truth to light — especially when other institutions stay silent.

Also, the Epstein files need to be released, in full and unredacted, immediately. If elected, I will make sure that happens.

What committees interest you?

U.S. Term Limits, Joe Steffen, Elaine Snider, Ken Garrett, Pastor Eric Jackson, Rev. Bob Morgan, Alyssa Sommer, Victor Rendon, Sarah Wicks

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

The four committees that interest me the most are:

1. House Committee on Appropriations Controls federal spending. Every dollar the government spends passes through this committee. It sets priorities for everything from defense to education to infrastructure. 2. House Committee on Energy and Commerce Oversees a huge range of issues: healthcare, energy policy, consumer protection, climate change, telecommunications, and more. Highly influential in shaping domestic policy. 3. House Committee on Education and the Workforce Covers public education, labor laws, workplace protections, union rights, and worker wages—critical for working families and students. 4. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability

Responsible for holding the federal government accountable through investigations and oversight of agencies, programs, and public spending. Crucial for transparency and ethics.

What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are non-negotiable. Public officials must disclose where money is coming from and how it’s being spent. No secret donors, no backroom deals, and no one—especially elected leaders—should be above the law. I support strict disclosure laws, independent oversight, and real consequences for corruption or misuse of power. Government should serve the people, not the powerful—and the public has a right to know what’s being done in their name and with their money.

What role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?

The accomplishment I am most proud of is raising my son. As a single mother, I made the decision to move across the country to Savannah, virtually knowing no one and starting fresh. It was not easy, but my determination was rooted in wanting to give my son the best possible future. Through every challenge and sacrifice, I stayed motivated by the vision that he would grow up knowing that anything is possible with hard work and perseverance.

Today, he is a college graduate and student-athlete—a reflection not only of his dedication but also of the journey we took together. Watching him earn his degree was one of the proudest moments of my life, because it symbolized the resilience, discipline, and hope that carried us forward.

That journey fuels me as I run for Congress. I want my son and every young person in Southeast Georgia, to see that you can dream boldly, overcome challenges, and make change in your community. My greatest accomplishment is not just that I raised a son who is thriving, but that I showed him, through example, the power of resilience, hope, and possibility.

What legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States?

The U.S. government must play a significant role in the development and use of artificial intelligence. Right now, AI is expanding rapidly with little oversight, and that creates serious risks for our economy, security, and democracy. Government has a responsibility to be a steward of this technology guiding how it is built, the environmental resources it consumes, the privacy it threatens, and the way it is implemented.

The dangers of AI are clear: job displacement, algorithmic bias that leads to discrimination, privacy and data security risks, the spread of disinformation and deepfakes, environmental harm from massive energy consumption, sophisticated cyber threats, and even potential existential risks if powerful systems develop without proper controls. Left unchecked, these dangers could widen inequality, erode trust, and destabilize communities.

These risks can be mitigated through ethical development, strong human oversight, and intentional regulation. The government must set standards for transparency, accountability, and fairness, while also investing in job training and workforce transitions so that workers are not left behind. AI should be used to expand opportunity and innovation, not to exploit people or undermine democracy.

By promoting responsible use, protecting civil rights, and ensuring accountability, the federal government can build public trust and make sure AI strengthens our country rather than endangers it.