Faith in our democratic system is at an all-time low. Our institutions and politicians are widely seen as inaccessible and unaccountable. And that's why it's more important than ever for those seeking elected office to demonstrate independence and integrity. This isn't always easy in a world after Citizens United, in which the uber-rich and multinational corporations spend enormous sums trying to defeat candidates who won't do their bidding. Even here in Adams County, organizations funded by Big Tech and Big Oil have intervened in local races just like mine. But when politicians push the policy preferences of corporations and billionaires over those of our local workers and residents, it further alienates ordinary people from the political process. This is why the Democratic Party and its representatives must represent something different from politics as usual this year.

I've been vocal about rejecting the endorsement or support of dark money groups who funnel Republican billionaire donors' cash into Democratic primaries. I'm the only candidate in this race to sign the #NoFossilFuelMoney pledge to reject large contributions from PACs, lobbyists, and executives directly associated with the fossil fuel industry. I'm also signing the Colorado Democratic Party's Clean Campaign Pledge, promising to run a fact-focused campaign grounded in issue-based advocacy and positivity about our plans for Adams County. I believe the greatest responsibility of a public official is to be a role model for ethical public conduct. I look forward to demonstrating for middle-class kids from my community that they can participate in our political system without fear or cynicism and perhaps even change it if they are willing to work hard and do the right thing.