Immigration is, at its heart, an issue of internal peace. How we treat those who have come to this country seeking a better life reflects who we are as a nation and as neighbors.
To be clear, people who come here and commit crimes, who steal from our social services, and don't pay taxes—they should face arrest and deportation. Our local law enforcement officers deserve the support they need to keep our communities safe.
But for undocumented immigrants who have not broken any laws beyond their immigration status and who contribute to our communities through work and taxes, I support a pathway to legalization and eventual citizenship. This isn't a radical position—it follows historical precedent, including the amnesty granted during the Reagan administration.
Our approach should be thoughtful, reconciliatory, and pragmatic. We can uphold the rule of law while also recognizing the humanity of those who are already our neighbors, coworkers, and friends.
I believe private corporate power must be balanced by strong labor protections. Right now, the pendulum has swung too far toward billionaires and mega-corporations, and we need policies that bring wages and opportunity back into balance.
I support strengthening collective bargaining rights for private sector unions and enforcing strict penalties for companies that retaliate against workers organizing. When workers have a real seat at the table, businesses thrive, small communities thrive, and families can build stable lives.
I also support expanding apprenticeship programs and vocational training—especially in construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades. We need pathways for young people to earn good wages without drowning in student debt. These are the jobs that built America, and they should pay like it.
Finally, I believe we need aggressive enforcement of prevailing wage standards on all government contracts. When the government spends taxpayer money, it should support jobs that can actually sustain a family—not undercut the very workers we're trying to support.
I believe in fair taxation that asks more of those who have benefited most from our economy. This isn't about punishment—it's about shared responsibility and recognizing that those who've prospered have a stake in the health of the system that enabled their success.
For too long, we've cut revenues while spending has grown unchecked. With our national debt spiraling, we need to take a hard look at how we fund the commitments we've made.
I support a temporary 50% marginal tax rate for individuals earning over $1 million annually to help pay for the costs of our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Those who have prospered most should contribute to the debts our nation has incurred.
I also support more comprehensive estate taxes. Right now, the estate tax only touches the wealthiest 0.1% of estates. It should cover the top 1%—otherwise we risk becoming a nation of dynastic wealth rather than one where opportunity and the public good take precedence.
Finally, I'm open to exploring a wealth tax on those with assets exceeding $100 million, as well as higher rates for billionaires. This is about fairness, shared sacrifice, and ensuring that extreme wealth doesn't become a barrier to a functioning democracy.