As a military veteran and a common-sense Democrat, I know that fiscal responsibility and smart government aren’t opposites, they go hand in hand. The policies I’m proposing aren’t just compassionate, they’re cost-effective, pro-business, and designed to stabilize our economy for the long haul.

Healthcare Investments That Save Taxpayer Dollars

Investing in preventive care, like NICUs, mental health, addiction recovery, and rural hospitals, reduces emergency care costs, which are the most expensive and inefficient part of our health system. When people don’t have access to basic care, they end up in ERs, costing the state and local taxpayers billions. By expanding Medicaid and Medicare strategically, we bring federal dollars back to Texas, reduce uncompensated care, and keep rural hospitals open a critical lifeline for businesses that need a healthy workforce and emergency services nearby.

Expanding state-level insurance options for teachers, first responders, veterans, and working families reduces the strain on local governments and school districts, cutting property taxes and freeing up local budgets for infrastructure and economic development. These reforms support business owners and job creators, who are currently bearing the brunt of rising health insurance premiums.

Pro-Life Policy That Supports Adoption and Reduces Long-Term Costs

Fully funding adoption assistance and maternal health, while protecting medically necessary procedures; prevents costly foster care placements and long-term health complications, both of which are more expensive for taxpayers. Giving families real options reduces pressure on our social systems and helps children grow into healthy, productive adults, the best long-term investment any economy can make.

Stabilizing the Labor Force and Cutting Crime-Related Costs

Mental health services, drug rehab programs, and expanded rape kit processing directly reduce crime rates, incarceration costs, and workplace instability. These investments create safer communities and more reliable workers, which is exactly what small businesses and employers need to grow with confidence. A stable workforce is a profitable workforce.

Nonprofit Insurance Co-Ops = Free Market Competition

Ending the ban on interstate health co-ops and funding nonprofit insurance options brings competition back to healthcare, breaking the grip of monopolies that drive up premiums for small businesses. This supports the free market, lowers costs for employers, and offers more affordable coverage options for independent contractors and gig workers.