Democrat (#1)
Do you think the Guam Legislature needs reform? If so, how? If not, why?
The Legislature is a dynamic body that changes with the needs of the people and that includes reform that our constituents expect. I am always sensitive to this. During my tenure as senator, I authored public laws that dealt with legislative reforms. One such bill that became law is that every senator must publicly disclose their direct financial interest, prepare a written statement that identifies the bill, the senator's vote and the nature of the senator's direct financial interest, which is then posted on the Legislature’s website. Our people need to know of any direct or perceived direct personal or financial interest of any bill heard in session.
What do you think the Legislature is not focusing on that it should?
The Legislature has worked hard on addressing issues related to the economy and education. My colleagues and I have spoken up about the need to protect our environment and its natural habitat. While growth is good, it must not be at the expense of everything else we value. We need to strike that balance. We also should unite in identifying and supporting the development of alternative sources of revenue. Ideas come and go, but now is the time to take those ideas and bring it to fruition. I also believe that expanding regional trade, increasing exports, and the lifting of restrictive policies should be a priority of all elected officials.
If elected, what will you do to enhance revenue to – and reduce costs incurred by – the government of Guam?
I will continue to establish laws that promote local business, call for greater regional collaboration for trade, and that develop alternative sources of revenue. I will continue to introduce legislation that allows for greater public-private partnerships, such as what I did with the Guam academy charter schools wherein public schools may be managed by private entities. The Legislature has made great strides in cutting its budget and we continue to find cost-saving measures to save taxpayers’ dollars.
