What actions would you take as a state legislator to protect and strengthen Washington’s food security safety net, including both public nutrition programs and the food banks and food pantries serving communities across the state?

People are relying on food banks and our food security safety net now more than ever. We must continue to fund and support these essential services while finding ways to expand access for communities that need them. Throughout my time in the legislature, I have consistently voted to support our food security safety net, and I remain committed to securing the funding needed to sustain and strengthen these vital services.

What have you done to understand food insecurity in the communities you seek to represent—including engaging with people experiencing hunger or local hunger-relief organizations—and what policies would you prioritize to address the root causes of hunger and ensure Washington residents can afford and access the food they need?

Food insecurity is deeply connected to affordability. The rising cost of basic necessities has made it harder for too many Washingtonians to access healthy food and other essentials. Since joining the legislature, I have volunteered with, toured, and supported organizations that make up our food safety net. We must continue funding these vital services, address gaps created by federal cuts, and tackle the underlying affordability challenges driving food insecurity.

What policies or investments would you support to strengthen Washington’s food system, increase access to locally produced food, support Washington farmers and producers, and reduce food waste?

I support policies that reduce food waste while investing in and expanding our food safety net. We should engage communities that have lacked access to these resources and strengthen connections to local food producers and community markets. These practical, low-cost solutions can help address food insecurity while expanding access to nutritious, locally produced food.