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?

Direct cash assistance to families. We saw that with Covid relief checks we were able to lift thousands of families out of poverty. I would also ensure all college students get food benefits and can eat with dignity why studying and planning their futures. Finally, I would put a good pantry at every elementary school to ensure access in every neighborhood where they have relationships and the stigma of food banks and ebt be benefits can be reduced.

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?

Those with food insecurity include members of my immediate family. I’ve went to welfare appointments with them to support and ensure they are being treated fairly. I do not think simulations are effective or a way to create lasting empathy for the circumstances those under resourced deal with to obtain and access benefits. Pretending or cosplaying poverty and oppression is offensive and too temporary to expect real change. WA needs to tax the wealth our state creates fairly and stop corporate and shareholder welfare that rigs the economy in favor of those who already have enough to meet their needs.

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 would remove liability for restaurants giving away left overs and start an “open table” program where anyone can dine and get free, cooked meals every day. This could also support a job program for youth and seniors, and give opportunity to volunteer to meet the new work requirements for health care. Food and human interaction is also health care.