In Congress, I’ve helped secure funding for both rural road improvements and urban transit expansions. I played a key role in crafting a bipartisan infrastructure bill that allocated billions for bridge repair and public transit systems. My ability to bring diverse stakeholders together ensures a balanced and impactful approach.

Some claim that the federal government shouldn’t play a central role in infrastructure reform, but this ignores the interconnected nature of our economy. Roads, bridges, and transit systems don’t stop at state lines—federal leadership is essential to create a cohesive, national system.

America’s infrastructure is in critical condition. Over 40% of bridges are over 50 years old, rural highways are deteriorating, and urban transit systems are overwhelmed by demand. Without federal intervention, these gaps will continue to widen, affecting our economy, safety, and environmental goals. This is why we need a federal plan that addresses both immediate repairs and long-term sustainability.

Previous approaches have either focused too heavily on urban transit or neglected rural areas altogether. My plan balances investments to ensure that rural communities get the modernized roads and bridges they need, while cities receive upgrades to public transit systems. I would also prioritize innovative funding mechanisms, such as federal grants tied to sustainability goals, to ensure all projects are future-proof.

We’ve underfunded maintenance and repair while investing in flashy new projects that fail to address the root problems. Additionally, we’ve overlooked the environmental impact of traditional infrastructure projects, missing opportunities to incorporate renewable energy and reduce emissions.

Many think that more federal funding automatically solves infrastructure problems, but the truth is, federal control often complicates things. By returning power to the states and fostering public-private partnerships, we can address these issues more effectively and efficiently.

Federal infrastructure programs are often riddled with inefficiencies, including delays caused by overregulation. For example, the average permitting process for new projects takes years, driving up costs and slowing progress. My plan focuses on cutting red tape and giving states more control over their projects.

Instead of focusing on what the federal government can do, we should ask how states and local governments can take the lead. States understand their unique needs far better than federal bureaucracies ever could. This question should focus on decentralization and empowering local decision-makers.

As the CEO of Green Futures, I’ve spent years implementing sustainable transportation solutions in both urban and rural settings. From building EV charging networks to consulting on high-speed rail projects, I’ve led initiatives that reduce emissions and modernize infrastructure. My experience ensures every investment prioritizes sustainability.

Both my opponents talk about rural highways and urban transit as though they can coexist with sustainability goals. They can’t—not without a fundamental shift away from fossil fuels. My plan is the only one that fully commits to addressing the climate crisis through infrastructure reform.

Transportation accounts for 29% of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. Building more highways and maintaining car dependency will only worsen the climate crisis. A sustainable approach requires bold investments in electrified public transit, high-speed rail, and renewable energy-powered systems.

Unlike Representative Mercer and Senator Grant, I would completely phase out federal funding for fossil fuel infrastructure. Instead, I would redirect every dollar to sustainable solutions, including EV infrastructure, green public transit, and urban redesigns that prioritize walking and cycling.

We’ve consistently prioritized outdated, car-centric infrastructure at the expense of green alternatives. Urban sprawl, traffic congestion, and rising emissions are the direct results of these policies. My plan breaks from this model and invests in the future.