The government's attempts to control women's reproductive rights deeply threaten women's autonomy and well-being. By imposing restrictions on access to contraceptives and safe, legal abortions, these measures strip women of the ability to make informed choices about their own bodies. Pro-choice advocacy isn't just a political stance; it's a fight for health, futures, and freedom. These rights are essential for physical health, mental well-being, and economic stability. When reproductive rights are restricted, it not only infringes on personal freedoms but also perpetuates gender inequality, often forcing women into dangerous and precarious situations.

Rita believes women and their doctors can be trusted to make the best healthcare decisions for themselves. In the Senate, she will stand up for women's rights to choose and access the care they need. Unfortunately, some believe that politicians in Columbia should be making those decisions for women. The goal is to prevent them from taking the already extreme abortion ban even farther by banning birth control, limiting access to IVF, and preventing victims of rape or incest from getting the care they need. Rita will ensure that her vote doesn't contribute to turning back the clock.

Advocating for the rights of women and children is a moral imperative. Women and children are often the most vulnerable members of society, facing various forms of discrimination, violence, and exploitation. It's crucial to promote policies and programs that:

• Promote Gender Equality:
• Advocate for equal opportunities in education, employment, and leadership.
• Support policies that close the gender pay gap.
• Protect Against Gender-Based Violence:
• Strengthen laws and enforcement against domestic violence and sexual assault.
• Provide resources and support for survivors of violence.
• Ensure Access to Essential Services:
• Ensure women and children have access to quality education and healthcare.
• Support programs that provide maternal care, reproductive healthcare, and treatments for gender-specific health issues.
• Champion Women's Health Rights:
• Advocate for access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare.
• Promote maternal health initiatives and preventive care.
• Strengthen Child Protection Laws:
• Implement and enforce laws to prevent child labor, trafficking, and abuse.
• Support child welfare programs that provide safe environments and care.

Rita is dedicated to ensuring every family feels safe. As a supporter of the 2nd Amendment, she believes in responsible gun ownership. In the Senate, she will prioritize keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous individuals, emphasizing gun safety to prevent domestic violence and safeguard women's rights. Rita will champion laws that restrict gun access for domestic abusers and those with restraining orders, directly shielding women and children. She also advocates for mandatory training and safety measures to ensure all gun owners are properly educated, reducing the risks of accidental shootings and misuse.

In contrast, recently passed open carry bill that allows unrestricted gun purchase, concealment, and carrying across the state without training, background checks, or waiting periods. Law enforcement has raised concerns about the safety implications of this law. In the Senate, her opponent’s stance poses a continued threat to children, families, and public safety.

By championing the rights of women and children, including their health rights, and advocating for enhanced gun safety laws, Rita aims to create a more just and equitable world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential.

Quality Education



As Rita’s older daughters navigate the financial burdens of college and her young daughters, aged 5 and 6, begin their educational journeys, they all face the same unchanged state school system that has persisted for decades. Overcrowded classrooms, outdated curricula, limited options for art-infused and STEM-infused programs, and underpaid teachers persist, stifling their potential. Unfortunately, politicians in Columbia, backed by Rita’s opponent, continue to divert funds from public schools to unaccountable private schools, benefiting the wealthiest South Carolinians while leaving middle and lower-class students and families behind.

Witnessing this, Rita envisions a future where quality education from elementary through college is a reality. This vision would empower every child to thrive without the weight of financial stress or inadequate resources. Education is the cornerstone of a thriving society, and Rita is dedicated to ensuring that every child in South Carolina has access to a quality education system that prepares them for success. As a state senator, she will:

• Ensure Equitable Funding for Schools:
• Advocate for fair distribution of state funds to ensure all schools, regardless of location, have the resources they need.
• Support budget plans that prioritize education and ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
• Support Teachers:
• Champion competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain high-quality teachers.
• Promote professional development programs to help teachers stay current with best practices and new technologies.
• Advocate for reducing unnecessary administrative burdens to allow teachers to focus more on teaching.
• Implement Innovative Programs:
• Encourage the development of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs to prepare students for future job markets.
• Support vocational and technical training programs that provide students with practical skills for various careers.
• Promote the use of technology in classrooms to enhance learning experiences and access to information.
• Increase State Scholarships for College:
• Expand state-funded scholarships to help cover tuition costs for South Carolina students attending in-state colleges and universities.
• Promote merit-based and need-based scholarships to ensure higher education is accessible to all students.
• Work with colleges to create more affordable pathways for students to obtain degrees and certifications.

By focusing on these areas, Rita aims to create an education system that not only meets the needs of today’s students but also prepares them for a successful future.

The Lowcountry faces many unique challenges—from housing affordability and availability to flooding and increased pressure on local infrastructure and roads. The region needs a state senator who understands these challenges and will focus on the solutions Lowcountry families need now and into the future.

Home affordability and low wages are critical issues making it increasingly difficult for renters and potential homeowners to secure stable housing. As property prices and rental rates continue to rise, wages have not kept pace, leaving many families struggling to make ends meet. As a local realtor, Rita sees every day the challenges families face in trying to achieve their own American dream. Too many people own a house they cannot afford to sell, and even more people are unable to afford rent in this increasingly expensive market.

Additionally, as the region continues to grow, more must be done to protect the way of life residents have all come to love in the Lowcountry. In the Senate, Rita will be a leading advocate for funding to improve roads, address the flooding issue, and ensure the region is prepared for an uncertain climate in future generations.

Access to affordable housing is a fundamental right, essential for stable communities and personal well-being. Rita will advocate tirelessly for:

• Development of Affordable Housing:
• Promote policies that encourage the construction of affordable housing units.
• Expand the Low Income Housing Tax Credits use to cover a wider range of affordable housing initiatives
• Push for funding allocations to repair and improve affordable housing infrastructure.
• Equitable Access for All:
• Champion initiatives that make affordable housing accessible regardless of income or background.
• Advocate for fair housing policies that combat discrimination and ensure equal access.
• A Plan for Charleston’s Future:
• Establish funding to complete projects currently approved but not funded to fix roads and bridges.
• Fund additional projects to reduce flooding throughout the Lowcountry.
• Bring together local officials, state officials, and residents to establish a plan ensuring the Lowcountry’s quality of life is protected for generations to come.

By prioritizing these initiatives, Rita aims to create inclusive and equitable communities where affordable housing is a reality for all individuals and families.