PRIORITIES
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EDUCATION
As the son of a devoted public school educator, former substitute teacher, and current school board member, AJ’s steadfast commitment is to protect public education in Ohio. The Republican supermajority poses significant threats with their misguided focus on fringe policies, including the expansion of the voucher program and attacks on higher education. If elected as state representative, AJ will vigorously push for increased funding for classroom resources, fair teacher salaries, and work to ensure every Ohio student has access to nutritious meals. Education is crucial to our community's success, and he’s resolute in shielding it from these detrimental policies.
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REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM
Protecting reproductive freedom is a fundamental right, emphatically supported by Ohio voters last November, signaling a clear demand to keep personal health decisions private and away from government interference. Despite this directive, AJ’s opponent and Republican legislators in the Ohio House are pushing to erode these rights, notably through bills aiming to collect personal reasons for abortions and more. Such actions defy the voters' will and threaten individual liberties and privacy. AJ remains committed to respecting the voters' choice, safeguarding reproductive freedoms, and opposing any legislative attempts to compromise these essential rights in Ohio.
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JOBS AND FAMILIES
AJ’s jobs and families platform is anchored in fostering economic growth, supporting small businesses, and prioritizing family well-being. Advocating for policies conducive to small business success, attracting tech and trade jobs, and ensuring affordable childcare reflects his commitment to a diverse and prosperous local economy. Recognizing the importance of stable households, AJ’s dedicated to supporting single-family homes and advocating for a livable wage to bolster economic vitality in HD-31. These initiatives collectively aim to create a vibrant, inclusive, and family-friendly environment in our district.
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VOTING RIGHTS
Advocating for a constitutional amendment to safeguard voting rights is a crucial stride for the integrity of our democratic process. A proposal should address challenges like gerrymandering and restrictive voting laws that disproportionately impact communities. As a state representative, AJ staunchly commits to fortifying democracy, pushing for fair elections, transparent redistricting, and legislation that eliminates voting barriers. Every eligible Ohioan deserves a voice in shaping our collective future, and AJ is dedicated to ensuring that principle stands strong.
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ENVIRONMENT
Combating air pollution, ensuring clean water, and improving state utilities oversight are at the top of AJ’s priorities. He will advocate for public transit expansion, sustainable state vehicles, and clean energy subsidies, particularly targeting the disproportionate impact on minority and low-income communities. AJ will also address lead pipes with a focus on securing funding, creating a registry, and supporting schools dealing with lead poisoning. Proposing reforms for transparency in the utilities commission, AJ’s goal is a healthier, more sustainable HD-31 that preserves our natural treasures like the Cuyahoga Valley National Park for future generations.
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DRUG EPIDEMIC
AJ’s commitment to addressing Ohio's drug epidemic is personal—he’s witnessed the impact on his own family. This fuels AJ’s determination for change, driving him to advocate for expanding Naloxone accessibility in everyday spaces. Additionally, addressing relapse among inmates is rooted in understanding addiction's broader impact. AJ’s dedication goes beyond policy—it's a deeply empathetic response. Through his personal experiences, he is driven to create a more compassionate and effective approach to combating the drug epidemic, ensuring Ohioans facing addiction receive the support they need for successful recovery.
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GUN VIOLENCE
AJ staunchly supports comprehensive background checks and red flag laws to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands. Encouraging responsible gun ownership, he endorses safe storage practices, reducing accidental shootings and unauthorized access. Striving for a balanced approach, AJ aims to respect gun owners' rights while prioritizing community well-being. Collaboratively implementing practical solutions, we can uphold responsible gun ownership principles and protect lives.