Background: U.S. Marine Corps; judge advocate; special assistant U.S. attorney; lawyer.

Why I got into public service: My parents ingrained in their six children that public service is an admirable profession for anyone to pursue and they practiced what they preached on a local level. Having grown up in such an atmosphere, the desire to run for elected office has always been with me.

Top Issue: My priority over the next term and beyond is to work with my Democratic colleagues and Democratic activists around the state to create an environment where a Democrat can take back the governor's office.

Guiding Value: Having the moral courage to do the right thing regardless of the potential fallout is critically important.

First Job: Funeral home assistant.