Policies
AFFORDABLE HEALTHCARE
WE HAVE TO FIX THE BROKEN HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
Our healthcare system is failing many Americans. Many of our friends and neighbors do not have enough money for necessary medical care or prescription drugs. This is wrong and should not be the reality in the United States– a nation with many resources.
Healthcare reform is a priority. For far too long, pharmaceutical companies and other healthcare players have fought to enable one of the most costly healthcare systems in the world. We need to negotiate with these companies and bring down the costs all across our system before we take the next steps. Otherwise, no type of coverage will be fair for all Americans.
I support a public-option health plan. Those who are happy with their current private plans can keep it. A strong, well-run public option will compete with private insurers, and we can move towards a better multi-payer healthcare system, or a single-payer system–if voters decide they want it.
An issue close to my heart is the mental health crisis in this country. Cities such as New York City have supported initiatives to address mental health care. However, high costs, insufficient coverage, and limited options still remain barriers from care. We need to invest in telemedicine, as well as outreach programs to those are struggling with mental health since many of them will not reach out on their own.
Our healthcare system is failing many Americans. Many of our friends and neighbors do not have enough money for necessary medical care or prescription drugs. This is wrong and should not be the reality in the United States– a nation with many resources.
Healthcare reform is a priority. For far too long, pharmaceutical companies and other healthcare players have fought to enable one of the most costly healthcare systems in the world. We need to negotiate with these companies and bring down the costs all across our system before we take the next steps. Otherwise, no type of coverage will be fair for all Americans.
I support a public-option health plan. Those who are happy with their current private plans can keep it. A strong, well-run public option will compete with private insurers, and we can move towards a better multi-payer healthcare system, or a single-payer system–if voters decide they want it.
An issue close to my heart is the mental health crisis in this country. Cities such as New York City have supported initiatives to address mental health care. However, high costs, insufficient coverage, and limited options still remain barriers from care. We need to invest in telemedicine, as well as outreach programs to those are struggling with mental health since many of them will not reach out on their own.
UNIVERSAL BASIC INCOME
I SUPPORT A PERMANENT UNIVERSAL BASIC INCOME FOR EVERY ADULT CITIZEN.
All Americans, especially low-income individuals and households, have felt the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. To get through the remainder of the crisis, I am calling for a $2,000 monthly income for all adult citizens. After the crisis, this amount will be reduced to $1,000 a month.
Before COVID-19, 19.1% of New Yorkers lived in poverty. A staggering 41.3% of New Yorkers were at risk of falling into poverty. Providing people with a universal basic come is not a left or right-wing idea. It is an honest solution to fix many of the woes associated with late-stage capitalism. The problem is that technology is advancing at such a rate that millions of jobs have disappeared. Now with the COVID-19 crisis, we need (UBI) more than ever. It’s capitalism, but humane. It’s human-centered capitalism.
A universal basic income will be financed partly through a Value-Added Tax (VAT) on luxury goods, and goods and services that rely heavily on automation. Staple items like food, medicine, clothing and diapers would not have extra tax added at all. The VAT has proved vastly superior to the wealth tax, which has now been repealed in multiple countries, as the top 1% hid their money in offshore accounts and took advantage of tax loopholes. Instead, the VAT splits up the tax amongst the various parts of the production process.
So what are the benefits of UBI for NYC?
The most obvious and important benefit and analogy is that it provides a safety net for Americans to fall back on. One 2017 study found that 57% of Americans don’t have enough cash on hand to afford a $500 unexpected expense.
Other safety net benefits include:
All Americans, especially low-income individuals and households, have felt the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. To get through the remainder of the crisis, I am calling for a $2,000 monthly income for all adult citizens. After the crisis, this amount will be reduced to $1,000 a month.
Before COVID-19, 19.1% of New Yorkers lived in poverty. A staggering 41.3% of New Yorkers were at risk of falling into poverty. Providing people with a universal basic come is not a left or right-wing idea. It is an honest solution to fix many of the woes associated with late-stage capitalism. The problem is that technology is advancing at such a rate that millions of jobs have disappeared. Now with the COVID-19 crisis, we need (UBI) more than ever. It’s capitalism, but humane. It’s human-centered capitalism.
A universal basic income will be financed partly through a Value-Added Tax (VAT) on luxury goods, and goods and services that rely heavily on automation. Staple items like food, medicine, clothing and diapers would not have extra tax added at all. The VAT has proved vastly superior to the wealth tax, which has now been repealed in multiple countries, as the top 1% hid their money in offshore accounts and took advantage of tax loopholes. Instead, the VAT splits up the tax amongst the various parts of the production process.
So what are the benefits of UBI for NYC?
The most obvious and important benefit and analogy is that it provides a safety net for Americans to fall back on. One 2017 study found that 57% of Americans don’t have enough cash on hand to afford a $500 unexpected expense.
Other safety net benefits include:
- Millions of dollars into the hands of New Yorkers will stimulate the economy. Local businesses will flourish, and will be looking to hire.
- Allowing mothers and fathers to stay at home and raise their child, rather than work and pay half or more of their wages to a babysitter or daycare.
- Allowing caretakers of elderly and disabled to care for their loved ones more often.
- UBI can serve as a safety net for battered individuals who are financially dependent on their abusers. UBI could release them from these chains, and allow them to pay for a plane ticket, a deposit on their own apartment, or a good lawyer.
JOB AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
WE MUST SUPPORT JOB CREATION
In order for District 26 to prosper, we need to lay the groundwork for gainful employment.
We start with providing services to first-time job seekers and those who face barriers to employment. A strong, local networking system and access to professionals who can provide mentorship. We will invest in apprenticeships and training programs that help job seekers from all backgrounds join the workforce.
As a daughter of a dining hall worker who worked his way up to become a restaurant owner. I love the spirit and dynamism of entrepreneurs! Many people in District 26 have small businesses that are vital for local employment. Small businesses help neighborhoods flourish by bringing innovation and investment to local communities. If elected, I will work to alleviate undue tax burdens and multiple levels of government regulation that are burdensome to small business owners. This will incentivize growth and provide stability and jobs.
Most District 26 residents did not want Amazon to pull out of its planned headquarters in Long Island City. The move was projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs–for small and big players alike, and if negotiated properly, could have funded public infrastructure. Beyond established tech businesses like Amazon, I want to encourage start-ups that drive innovation and education to locate in Queens.
As a financial controller of a nonprofit organization that oversees community development, I understand the necessity of attracting revenue for the steps that lie ahead.
In order for District 26 to prosper, we need to lay the groundwork for gainful employment.
We start with providing services to first-time job seekers and those who face barriers to employment. A strong, local networking system and access to professionals who can provide mentorship. We will invest in apprenticeships and training programs that help job seekers from all backgrounds join the workforce.
As a daughter of a dining hall worker who worked his way up to become a restaurant owner. I love the spirit and dynamism of entrepreneurs! Many people in District 26 have small businesses that are vital for local employment. Small businesses help neighborhoods flourish by bringing innovation and investment to local communities. If elected, I will work to alleviate undue tax burdens and multiple levels of government regulation that are burdensome to small business owners. This will incentivize growth and provide stability and jobs.
Most District 26 residents did not want Amazon to pull out of its planned headquarters in Long Island City. The move was projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs–for small and big players alike, and if negotiated properly, could have funded public infrastructure. Beyond established tech businesses like Amazon, I want to encourage start-ups that drive innovation and education to locate in Queens.
As a financial controller of a nonprofit organization that oversees community development, I understand the necessity of attracting revenue for the steps that lie ahead.
PUBLIC SAFETY
KEEPING OUR NEIGHBORHOODS SAFE IS A VITAL PRIORITY
I live here and raised my children here. For me public safety is about the safety of my neighbors and my own children. My first priority is to work with law enforcement to make sure the public safety needs of residents are being properly implemented.
An issue many constituents have raised is the growing need of the homeless shelters around the District. While they are welcomed to combat the growing number of homeless, the city has done a terrible job of discussing these services with the community. To keep neighbors and residents safe, I believe it is crucial for the community to work with city officials to solve safety issues related to the shelters.
District 26 has experienced firsthand the devastation of the drug epidemic that is sweeping across the nation. Queens residents have dealt with family members and loved ones ravaged by overdose, and seen lives destroyed by addiction. We must move resources to intervene earlier in the lives of young people, and continue with comprehensive treatment for those who are addicted.
Gun Safety
The second amendment is part of our constitution, but gun violence has become a public health crisis. I believe in a commonsense approach to gun safety. I support universal background checks, strict laws preventing anyone with a history of violence from obtaining a weapon; and a ban on assault weapons and accessories that are used in many mass shootings.
Human Trafficking.
The coercion and transport of women, men, and children is not a problem relegated to faraway lands; it is happening right now, in our own community. I plan to fight for reforms to help combat human trafficking by working with advocacy groups and law enforcement organizations. The drug cartels that plague our neighborhoods are not easy to fight. As more states turn to the legalization of marijuana, they will cut the cash stream to drug cartels that will move into human trafficking, therefore it only makes sense to support the legalization of marijuana.
I live here and raised my children here. For me public safety is about the safety of my neighbors and my own children. My first priority is to work with law enforcement to make sure the public safety needs of residents are being properly implemented.
An issue many constituents have raised is the growing need of the homeless shelters around the District. While they are welcomed to combat the growing number of homeless, the city has done a terrible job of discussing these services with the community. To keep neighbors and residents safe, I believe it is crucial for the community to work with city officials to solve safety issues related to the shelters.
District 26 has experienced firsthand the devastation of the drug epidemic that is sweeping across the nation. Queens residents have dealt with family members and loved ones ravaged by overdose, and seen lives destroyed by addiction. We must move resources to intervene earlier in the lives of young people, and continue with comprehensive treatment for those who are addicted.
Gun Safety
The second amendment is part of our constitution, but gun violence has become a public health crisis. I believe in a commonsense approach to gun safety. I support universal background checks, strict laws preventing anyone with a history of violence from obtaining a weapon; and a ban on assault weapons and accessories that are used in many mass shootings.
Human Trafficking.
The coercion and transport of women, men, and children is not a problem relegated to faraway lands; it is happening right now, in our own community. I plan to fight for reforms to help combat human trafficking by working with advocacy groups and law enforcement organizations. The drug cartels that plague our neighborhoods are not easy to fight. As more states turn to the legalization of marijuana, they will cut the cash stream to drug cartels that will move into human trafficking, therefore it only makes sense to support the legalization of marijuana.
EDUCATION
WE HAVE TO FIX OUR SCHOOLS AND PROVIDE EDUCATION ALTERNATIVES
Education is the most crucial factor in ensuring a better future for all of us. The public school system in District 26 is not meeting the needs of many of our students. While standardized tests gauge how students are performing, an overemphasis on these tests in elementary and middle schools impedes natural learning. Rather than teaching our children to solve problems analytically and creatively, they dull a child’s love of learning.
I am a fierce advocate for the expansion of special education programs, and special-education public schools in the future. Many children that have autism, dyslexia, and other issues either fall behind in the public school system or have parents that are forced to pay for expensive private schools. The process of diagnosing a child properly is a frustrating experience that requires money and time. Children with special needs deserve to have their education prioritized so they don’t fall through the cracks.
We cannot stop at fixing our outdated public schools. I support trade schools and vocational programs that help students of all ages become competitive in fields that require computer and tech skills. Not everyone needs to go to a four-year college in order to be successful. Trade schools have always been a way for people to quickly gain the tools they need to get ahead.
Student Loans
Student debt levels have reached an all-time high, harming families and burdening our economy. I support tuition-free, two-year public college. I support an income-driven repayment plan with a reduced cap on loan repayment, and lower interest rates on loans, with no accrued interest until graduation. Individuals would have up to one year of loan deferment, with no change in interest rate.
Education is the most crucial factor in ensuring a better future for all of us. The public school system in District 26 is not meeting the needs of many of our students. While standardized tests gauge how students are performing, an overemphasis on these tests in elementary and middle schools impedes natural learning. Rather than teaching our children to solve problems analytically and creatively, they dull a child’s love of learning.
I am a fierce advocate for the expansion of special education programs, and special-education public schools in the future. Many children that have autism, dyslexia, and other issues either fall behind in the public school system or have parents that are forced to pay for expensive private schools. The process of diagnosing a child properly is a frustrating experience that requires money and time. Children with special needs deserve to have their education prioritized so they don’t fall through the cracks.
We cannot stop at fixing our outdated public schools. I support trade schools and vocational programs that help students of all ages become competitive in fields that require computer and tech skills. Not everyone needs to go to a four-year college in order to be successful. Trade schools have always been a way for people to quickly gain the tools they need to get ahead.
Student Loans
Student debt levels have reached an all-time high, harming families and burdening our economy. I support tuition-free, two-year public college. I support an income-driven repayment plan with a reduced cap on loan repayment, and lower interest rates on loans, with no accrued interest until graduation. Individuals would have up to one year of loan deferment, with no change in interest rate.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
IMMIGRATION REFORM IS TAKING TOO LONG
As a daughter of immigrant parents, I understand that immigration is one of New York City’s greatest strengths. Hard-working and entrepreneurial immigrants contribute to the city’s economy, and make New York City one of the cultural capitals of the world. In District 26, the diversity of immigrant groups is among the city’s most vibrant. In the last couple years, the city taken has taken vital steps to keep immigrants safe. ICE was no longer allowed to enter City buildings or schools. NYC also expanded legal representation for undocumented folks when they needed it most.
I believe our nation’s ports of entry need to be secured. However, we have over 12 million undocumented immigrants that need to be treated humanely. Many of them pay taxes and have American children. We need to create a pathway to citizenship, especially for DACA recipients.
As a daughter of immigrant parents, I understand that immigration is one of New York City’s greatest strengths. Hard-working and entrepreneurial immigrants contribute to the city’s economy, and make New York City one of the cultural capitals of the world. In District 26, the diversity of immigrant groups is among the city’s most vibrant. In the last couple years, the city taken has taken vital steps to keep immigrants safe. ICE was no longer allowed to enter City buildings or schools. NYC also expanded legal representation for undocumented folks when they needed it most.
I believe our nation’s ports of entry need to be secured. However, we have over 12 million undocumented immigrants that need to be treated humanely. Many of them pay taxes and have American children. We need to create a pathway to citizenship, especially for DACA recipients.
VETERANS & SENIORS
THE SERVICES PROVIDED FOR OUR VETS AND ELDERLY MUST BE FIXED
Our veterans served in the armed forces to defend this nation from threats to our liberty. They made sacrifices. Many came home with injuries – both physical and mental. We owe it to them to give them the care and treatment they need. When our Veterans Affairs administration falls short of their duties to our vets, they need to be held accountable. In order to effectively serve our Veterans, I will create and empower Veterans by forming a District 26 Veterans Advisory Council to help create legislation and assist with post-service economic opportunity.
Seniors
The number of New York residents aged 65 and older grew eight times faster than the state’s total population, and as such, New York City’s senior population is booming. Although many senior citizens report they have strong social lives, they lack access to healthcare and other services due to poverty. Many live in terrible conditions and can barely afford their medicines or food. Immigrant seniors, especially may not have worked long enough to qualify for Social Security benefits. Programs designed specifically for our seniors must be prioritized to lift them out of poverty. I am a supporter of NYCHA, the New York City Housing Authority that provides low-cost housing to many of our citizens and is a lifeline to many seniors and veterans whose means are limited.
Our veterans served in the armed forces to defend this nation from threats to our liberty. They made sacrifices. Many came home with injuries – both physical and mental. We owe it to them to give them the care and treatment they need. When our Veterans Affairs administration falls short of their duties to our vets, they need to be held accountable. In order to effectively serve our Veterans, I will create and empower Veterans by forming a District 26 Veterans Advisory Council to help create legislation and assist with post-service economic opportunity.
Seniors
The number of New York residents aged 65 and older grew eight times faster than the state’s total population, and as such, New York City’s senior population is booming. Although many senior citizens report they have strong social lives, they lack access to healthcare and other services due to poverty. Many live in terrible conditions and can barely afford their medicines or food. Immigrant seniors, especially may not have worked long enough to qualify for Social Security benefits. Programs designed specifically for our seniors must be prioritized to lift them out of poverty. I am a supporter of NYCHA, the New York City Housing Authority that provides low-cost housing to many of our citizens and is a lifeline to many seniors and veterans whose means are limited.
CLIMATE CHANGE
CLIMATE CHANGE IS A VERY REAL CRISIS THAT WE MUST FACE HEAD-ON
As a coastal city New York City is under threat of being affected by drastically rising sea levels in the next decade. This poses a risk to our people, resources, and economy. Flooding damages homes, businesses, and affects our public transportation.
As your councilwoman, I will work hard to implement larger initiatives for a more sustainable city. We will reduce carbon emissions by fully electrifying the City’s vehicle fleet by 2035 - 5 years before it is currently scheduled. Environmental justice will to central when planning for new construction in the district.
As a coastal city New York City is under threat of being affected by drastically rising sea levels in the next decade. This poses a risk to our people, resources, and economy. Flooding damages homes, businesses, and affects our public transportation.
As your councilwoman, I will work hard to implement larger initiatives for a more sustainable city. We will reduce carbon emissions by fully electrifying the City’s vehicle fleet by 2035 - 5 years before it is currently scheduled. Environmental justice will to central when planning for new construction in the district.
PARTNERSHIP WITH UNIONS
I BELIEVE THAT UNIONS ARE THE BACKBONE OF OUR WORKFORCE
Democrats have traditionally been linked with unions and the labor movement from the 19th century onwards. It seems as though many modern democrats have forgotten this fact.
Unions have fought for worker’s rights for generations, but in the last couple of decades we have seen serious erosion in the power of these vital organizations. A strong labor movement is crucial to keeping workers from being exploited and getting proper compensation for their work.
I am a strong supporter of unions and will work to bring more good-paying union jobs to the district. I will work with union leaders to push for the rights of workers in a way that is beneficial to both them and management. It’s more than just good policy–unions go to the heart of our values as Democrats.
Democrats have traditionally been linked with unions and the labor movement from the 19th century onwards. It seems as though many modern democrats have forgotten this fact.
Unions have fought for worker’s rights for generations, but in the last couple of decades we have seen serious erosion in the power of these vital organizations. A strong labor movement is crucial to keeping workers from being exploited and getting proper compensation for their work.
I am a strong supporter of unions and will work to bring more good-paying union jobs to the district. I will work with union leaders to push for the rights of workers in a way that is beneficial to both them and management. It’s more than just good policy–unions go to the heart of our values as Democrats.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
NEW YORK’S HOUSING CRISIS HAS BEEN A LONG TIME IN THE MAKING.
In New York City wages have stagnated, but rents have soared. Many consumers are willing to pay extraordinarily high prices for their choice of home, but others like the homeless and low-and middle-income people, are either left out or end up paying much more than 30% of their income on rent.
Homelessness has risen to an all-time in New York City. As of January 2020, a record 62, 679 people slept in a NYC shelter each night, a figure that does not include those on the streets. The primary cause of homelessness is affordable housing that is triggered by unemployment, domestic violence, overcrowding, eviction, and mental health problems. I will advocate for increased federal funding for the homeless crisis, and work with communities and advocates to establish permanent housing for the homeless.
As your Councilwoman, I will seek to update the tax code, allowing renters to deduct their rent from taxes just like homeowners and landlords can deduct mortgage. For the lowest-income Americans, I want to provide housing vouchers to help families stay in their homes, and call for federal eviction prevention programs and tenant counseling.
Ultimately, the housing crisis cannot be solved without building more housing of all kinds. How and where to do this, is the source of conflicts between communities. developers, landlords and tenants. I believe in relaxing zoning laws to allow for more affordable housing options, and will liaise with all parties to benefit the people in District 26.
In New York City wages have stagnated, but rents have soared. Many consumers are willing to pay extraordinarily high prices for their choice of home, but others like the homeless and low-and middle-income people, are either left out or end up paying much more than 30% of their income on rent.
Homelessness has risen to an all-time in New York City. As of January 2020, a record 62, 679 people slept in a NYC shelter each night, a figure that does not include those on the streets. The primary cause of homelessness is affordable housing that is triggered by unemployment, domestic violence, overcrowding, eviction, and mental health problems. I will advocate for increased federal funding for the homeless crisis, and work with communities and advocates to establish permanent housing for the homeless.
As your Councilwoman, I will seek to update the tax code, allowing renters to deduct their rent from taxes just like homeowners and landlords can deduct mortgage. For the lowest-income Americans, I want to provide housing vouchers to help families stay in their homes, and call for federal eviction prevention programs and tenant counseling.
Ultimately, the housing crisis cannot be solved without building more housing of all kinds. How and where to do this, is the source of conflicts between communities. developers, landlords and tenants. I believe in relaxing zoning laws to allow for more affordable housing options, and will liaise with all parties to benefit the people in District 26.
Legalization
I am for the legalization of marijuana. Economists predict the adult use of marijuana can bring in over 350 million in revenue. In states where marijuana is already legal, the crime rate has not gone up, and the rate of car accidents has not gone up. Legalization of marijuana has created many good paying jobs, and has been great for the state budget. I support the efforts in Albany to make legalization a reality
I am also in favor of decriminalizing psychedelic mushrooms (psilocybin), and legalizing it for medicinal use. Psilocybin is not chemically addictive, and no physical symptoms occur after stopping use. The benefits of psychedelic mushrooms are clear. Studies show psychedelics could be a breakthrough therapy for various mental health issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD through their ability to work on a deep emotional as well as a biological level.
I am also in favor of decriminalizing psychedelic mushrooms (psilocybin), and legalizing it for medicinal use. Psilocybin is not chemically addictive, and no physical symptoms occur after stopping use. The benefits of psychedelic mushrooms are clear. Studies show psychedelics could be a breakthrough therapy for various mental health issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD through their ability to work on a deep emotional as well as a biological level.
EQUALITY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL
I support Black Lives Matter. I affirm the lives of Black queer and trans folks, disabled folks, undocumented folks, folks with records, women, and all Black lives along the gender spectrum. I will work tirelessly for a city where Black lives are no longer systematically targeted for demise.
LGBTQIA+
Love is love and everybody has the right to express their gender identity. People deserve the right to be who they are and not have to worry about discrimination in housing, the workplace, or school. I am glad that Governor Cuomo signed legislation repealing the 'Walking While Trans' Ban. NYC is a welcoming city, but more can be done to support our LGBTQIA+ residents. I will support additional funding for housing for homeless LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers, as well as support services such as counseling and drop-in centers to offer information about health services, safer sex, STDs, and employment.
LGBTQIA+
Love is love and everybody has the right to express their gender identity. People deserve the right to be who they are and not have to worry about discrimination in housing, the workplace, or school. I am glad that Governor Cuomo signed legislation repealing the 'Walking While Trans' Ban. NYC is a welcoming city, but more can be done to support our LGBTQIA+ residents. I will support additional funding for housing for homeless LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers, as well as support services such as counseling and drop-in centers to offer information about health services, safer sex, STDs, and employment.
