Ysela Bravo (D), State Delegate, District 4

(10/28) My primary reason for running is I’m an optimist – we can do better when we work together, and I’m willing to listen to all my constituents.

I have lived in Mount Airy for twelve years as a stay-at-home mom, served as PTA president and worked as a substitute teacher. I co-hosted a radio show in Thurmont discussing current issues after the last election because I felt it was imperative to remember we share the common goal of maintaining and improving our communities. My prior career was as a human resources manager for a defense contractor, where I often had to balance the priorities of management and the welfare of our employees, our most valuable assets.

I am inspired to make my first run for office because of my love for our area and its residents. Since moving here, I have been taught the true meaning of community and neighbors. The people who live here are kind and thoughtful. I believe our representation in Annapolis should reflect its constituents.

There are three issues I’d focus on: growth, healthcare and the opioid issue and education.

First, we’re not effectively managing the development that is fast changing the rural character of Frederick County. Growth is good, and sustains an economy for businesses, but there needs to be consideration given to those who serve our community such as farmers, police officers, emergency responders and teachers who need additional support to account for the influx of new residents coming to our great neighborhoods. We must also think ahead to strengthen infrastructure like roads, school facilities, green space and health care so we can ensure our residents have access to the services they need.

Second, families are being torn apart by illness and addiction while dealing with stigma, shame and the lack of resources to provide treatment options and support. Access to affordable healthcare is essential, and must include rehabilitation for those affected by addiction. We need to work with courts, law enforcement, treatment facilities and families to encourage substance abusers to seek successful treatment. We need to remove the barriers to physical and mental health care and instead ensure access for Maryland residents.

Third, we need to help students excel by providing our public schools with the right tools and staff. We need to listen to teachers, parents and students and find a way for their needs to make it to Annapolis so their voices are woven into the fabric of new curriculum, policies and mandates for learning.

I am a Democrat running in a district I’ve been told I can’t win. But I’ve met the people in this district and I believe most of them are willing to look at the person, and not the letter after a name. Nobody asks what party we are in when we are working in the PTA. We can respectfully disagree on some issues and still join forces to find sensible solutions that work. I believe that the best decisions are informed by diverse viewpoints and I welcome all views because this isn’t just my community - it’s ours.