Issues and Priorities
Education
Education is the silver bullet: for each dollar that we invest, every citizen in the Commonwealth receives a better life. Massachusetts boasts the best education system in the country, and in serving as a teacher and principal, Josh has seen firsthand what makes this system great and the ways in which it can be improved. A lack of sufficient funding can hinder a student’s education, and Josh would fight hard in the State House to ensure every child the highest quality learning environment, no matter their circumstances.
Josh will work to:
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Raise starting teacher salaries
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Increase state aid to districts that need it most
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Increase resources to treat and combat mental illness, including additional adjustment counselors
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Pass a state law that allows school districts to ban cell phones in schools, decreasing online harassment for students and teachers
Climate Change
Climate change is an existential threat to humanity. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and global warming are fundamentally altering the way humans exist on this planet, and while the 13th Norfolk District may be just a piece in a much larger puzzle, we still have a part to play. It is imperative that we face these challenges proactively and from many angles: our future and our children's futures depend on it.
Josh is ready to advocate for this greener, brighter world in the State House:
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Create more walking paths and bicycle lanes throughout Dover, Medfield, and Needham
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Encourage all state and local governments to speed up the electrification of our transit system
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Increase the supply and installation of electric charging ports.
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Decrease the use of plastic bottles, plastic bags, and non-biodegradable products.
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Increase incentives for use of the MA transit
The Cost of Living, Inflation, and the Housing Crisis
Massachusetts has a lack of affordable housing. This crisis affects vital members of our community, specifically first responders and public servants. Those who do so much for our community should be able to live in our community.
There are several policies that we can enact:
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Tax credits for police, firefighters, teachers, nurses, and other public servants to purchase a home so they can live in or near the communities they serve
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Provide developers with incentives to construct new green-energy, middle-class housing
Reproductive Justice
Since the Dobbs decision, the reproductive rights of women has been under constant attack. A woman’s right to seek an abortion should be a private matter between a woman and her doctor. Attempts to institute a federal abortion ban are an infringement on a woman's right to choose. If elected, Josh will be a firm voice in support of abortion rights and will work to make sure Massachusetts remains a beacon of freedom for women’s reproductive rights.
Infrastructure
Safe and secure infrastructure is crucial in creating and sustaining a thriving economy. The Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse demonstrated that we can never be too vigilant in improving our infrastructure. Roads, bridges, and public transportation ensure our daily lives go on without a problem. You may not care about infrastructure until you get a flat tire. We will work to ensure that Massachusetts continues to invest in improving infrastructure.
Improving Political Discourse
As our political discourse has become much more polarized, it is imperative that the actions we take as representatives reflect the interests of everyone rather than merely serve a partisan agenda. While Josh is a Democrat, his job is to serve the people of the 13th District, irrespective of party affiliation. We need to build bridges and work together to find common ground to tackle our state's greatest challenges. From his experiences in the US Army Special Forces to his leadership as a principal, Josh has worked alongside people of many different backgrounds, races, genders, and religious convictions. Through these experiences, Josh has seen a common theme: we agree on much more than we realize. While we may vociferously disagree on issues of our time, we must continue to be united in our belief in democratic rule and stay within the bounds of political decency.
Military
Josh's dedication to public service began when he enlisted in the US Army as a Special Forces Green Beret. During that time, he deployed to Afghanistan and South America. After 20 years of service, Josh continues to serve his country as a Judge Advocate General (JAG), assisting soldiers and commanders with accurate legal guidance. With his experience and knowledge, Josh is aware of the many issues facing veterans. If elected, Josh will champion greater access to mental health treatment for veterans, increase educational opportunities to allow veterans to easily integrate back into civilian life, and advocate for veteran’s families.
Healthcare
Massachusetts has the best hospitals in the world. Josh will work to keep physicians here and secure our future for medicine by expanding the Massachusetts Loan Repayment Program for Health Professionals, addressing physician burnout, and rewarding those who make our system so efficient and effective.
Additionally, Josh will work towards:
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Improved access to timely and affordable healthcare across the Commonwealth
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Increased support for local community hospitals and ambulatory care centers
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Recruiting initiatives to bring additional doctors and medical specialists to Massachusetts.