The issues

affordability / Cost of Living

Tennesseans are working harder than ever, but wages aren't keeping up with the cost of groceries, rent, and gas. Maria believes the economy should work for families — not just corporations and the wealthy.

  • Fight for wages that allow working families to get ahead, not just get by

  • Oppose trade and tax policies that ship jobs overseas while leaving Tennesseans behind

  • Support small businesses with access to credit, fair markets, and reduced bureaucratic burden

  • Protect Social Security and Medicare from cuts that would harm retirees

Healthcare

Too many Tennesseans are choosing between filling prescriptions and paying rent. Tennessee is one of the states that has not fully expanded Medicaid, leaving hundreds of thousands without coverage. Maria will fight to change that.

  • Protect coverage for pre-existing conditions — no exceptions

  • Lower the cost of prescription drugs by allowing Medicare to negotiate prices

  • Support Medicaid expansion so rural and low-income Tennesseans have access to care

  • Protect and strengthen the ACA

Education

A strong public education system is the foundation of a strong economy and a healthy democracy. Maria believes every Tennessee child deserves a great teacher and a well-funded school — regardless of their zip code.

  • Support competitive teacher pay to recruit and retain great educators

  • Invest in early childhood education and pre-K access

  • Make college and vocational training more affordable and accessible

Worker’s Rights

Maria has spent her career standing up for the teachers, nurses, first responders, and working people who keep Tennessee running. In the Senate, she'll be their advocate.

  • Protect the right to organize and collectively bargain

  • Ensure workplace safety standards are enforced — not gutted

  • Support paid family and medical leave so no worker has to choose between their job and their family

  • Fight against wage theft and exploitative practices