Volunteer spotlight: October

Laura H: Music loving, Corruption Fighting Super Volunteer!

Laura is one of our most active volunteers! She found us through Facebook about three months ago and quickly became the co-leader for the Talbot County Action Team. As co-leader, she coordinates educational outreach actions in her county at least twice per month in order to help grow our network of anti-corruption voters!
Read more about Laura below!

Name: Laura H.
City: St Michael's, MD
Age: 34

​What made you want to volunteer with RepMD?
I wanted to be involved with politics in a way that addresses a core issue, and getting corrupt money out of politics fits the bill. I was drawn to the logic and sound philosophy behind this movement. I also like that Represent Maryland is non-partisan- it is inclusive, and encourages everyday people of all ideologies to get involved and be heard. I also appreciate that RepMD isn't "out to get" any group or political leader. Instead, it addresses systemic change. It's really about making the rules of the game fair so that it's easier for elected leaders to work for their constituents, rather than super-wealthy special interests.

Why do you think getting big money out of politics is important?
I think the voice of the everyday citizen is silenced by the system we currently have. As long as the super wealthy corporations and mega donors have the undivided attention of our leaders, decisions will be made that only benefit those who already have great wealth. We need viable, citizen-funded candidates and more say for the typical American in the election process.

What is your favorite provision of the AACA and why?
I like ranked choice voting. I want to be able to show support for the front runner of my choice, without giving up the chance to support smaller independent candidates, because we need more choice, not less, in our elections.

Besides fighting corruption, what else do you like to do?
I'm a caregiver, psychologist, and music-lover, in both my work and my personal life. I love to travel, read, and spend time with loved ones.

What do you think the biggest problem our country is facing is?
I think the biggest problem we face is that people don't think they have any power to change things for the better. But the truth is, a dedicated group of individuals, acting in good faith, can make a big difference. It's time to ask for what we want clearly and persistently, which I think should include reducing the unfair advantage that super wealthy corporations and mega-donors have in influencing legislation.

Anything else you'd like us to know?
Some people say it's a pipe dream to believe we can reduce government corruption, but nothing happens unless someone tries. This type of grassroots organizing may be "the long game," but Represent Maryland and Represent.US have already made progress, and there are new goals each month that are achievable. With a network of passionate and engaged citizens, anything is possible.