Issues

I am running to continue as State Rep. from LD29 because I love Tucson and Arizona. I’m in this race to win and solve problems, help people and build bridges for positive change at the State Capitol.

I serve because our future depends on new leadership. I protect the common good, working and listening cooperatively to improve quality of life for all Arizonans.

I serve as an effective independent Democrat in the Legislature. I protect and serve your interests at the State Capitol, not special interests.

In the State House, I work with the Governor, citizens, businesses and across the aisle with other lawmakers on:

Economy and Jobs: I work in the legislature to promote fair economic justice and encourage responsible business and investment in LD29 and Arizona that provides good sustainable jobs. At the capitol I am a friend of business and middle-class families. I am endorsed by all major Arizona labor organizations. We must build a fair and prosperous economy that rewards hard work, not just corporations and the rich.

Immigration: In the State House, I will push the federal government to reform our broken US immigration system and control the international border. I support tough immigration reform.

Water and Planning: We must recognize water limits, including with CAP, and the recognize in law the connection of ground water pumping to drying up streams and springs. I have lead by example with water harvesting at our home. Arizona needs more encouragement of conservation and water harvesting, especially in new construction. We have an ethical responsibility to act to ensure our children and grandchildren have a long-term sustainable clean water supply, not just 100 years.

Education: I am very involved and concerned about public schools with a daughter in TUSD. We must listen to and pay teachers more. I will stand ground to keep state bureaucrats out of local schools’ business. The legislature must better support Arizona’s universities as an important investment in our future. Arizona must also improve its State Lands system so it better serves education and conservation, not primarily big corporations. I have the endorsement of the Arizona Education Association.

Public Safety: As a south side neighborhood President, I’ve worked cooperatively with police for years to successfully reduce crime. I am endorsed by the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police.

Election Integrity: We must ensure everyone eligible can register and vote without hassle, that every vote counts and we can trust the outcome of all elections.

Transportation: I ride a bike and drive an efficient biodiesel powered vehicle and support clean cars & fuels. We need some new roads, but Arizona cannot build its way out of traffic congestion with roads only. We need more transit options. To improve safety, health and alternatives, Arizona needs stronger state laws to give more right of way to pedestrians and bikes. I will work with ADoT, the feds and railroad to realize Tucson-Phoenix commuter rail. I also back a metro-Tucson commuter rail system, from northwest-downtown-southeast, and also south to Green Valley and Nogales.

Health Care: We must cover as many people as possible, especially at-risk children, and protect important health care programs. I am endorsed by the Arizona Nurses Association.

Equal Rights and Civil Liberties: The state must always respect and protect the rights of all, including the GLBT community. I support policies aimed at stopping racism, sexism and other discrimination. Arizona should always respect the Bill of Rights, and protect privacy rights and responsible individual freedoms. I have a NRA ‘B’ rating.

Energy and Environment: In the House I will use my successful energy and environmental experience and planning skills to help improve quality of life. On energy independence, I have lead by example by producing solar power and hot water on the rooftop of our south side home. Scientists say global warming related climate change is making Arizona hotter and drier. We can and must do more to promote true energy independence by helping home and business owners to go solar, and even use small backyard or rooftop wind power. As an ecologist, I will help support and push state efforts to protect wildlife and habitat. The state must also do more to clean up Arizona’s growing air pollution problem, which is harming our health and economy. I am endorsed by the Arizona League of Conservation Voters and the Sierra Club-Grand Canyon Chapter.

Local Control: The Legislature must better respect city and county rights, and stop preempting local governments from protecting citizens.

End Predatory Payday Loans: I support stronger consumer protections from unfair lending practices.

With your support and vote, we will make Arizona a stronger state. Thank you! Rep. Daniel Patterson (LD29)