People at the Center. Progress for All.
Productivity that Delivers.
My name is Leslie Gerrish and I am pleased to announce that I am running for State House for District 17. I have thought deeply about this for a few years, and I know now is the time. I love this community and believe District 17 deserves thoughtful, responsive representation.
My legislative priorities include properly funding public education, rural healthcare resources, and specifically managing an ever-changing data environment. But I want to address specific issues in our current leadership.
First, this is a time where we all must be brave. We must be there for our neighbors. We must stand up even in the toughest times, and all elected officials up and down the ballot must speak out. I promise to do those things. Since my time in South Dakota, I have stood up many times, even when it is most difficult.
Second, I want to break up the super (duper!) majority we currently have in Pierre. The lack of diverse representation in Pierre means silly, unnecessary bills take up too much time. Those who want to work to make sure good things happen for the people of South Dakota, no matter the letter behind their name, are unable because the noise and chaos take up too much space. Efficiency and productivity are second nature to me.
I am a community organizer, a business owner, a committed volunteer and a mom. Ask me to get things done, all while folding laundry and confirming a dentist appointment, well, you got it.
Legislative priorities
education
The proof is in the data. A properly funded public education offers our children the opportunity to lead richer, fuller lives. We owe it to our children to ensure education is a top priority, and that includes pre-school education. In my dream, universally funded pre-school would be a reality in for all South Dakotan children. In our current reality, I will fight each day for every rock to be turned to ensure our teachers are fairly compensated and our children have the resources and nurishment they need to learn each day.
And I won’t stop dreaming.
Rural Healthcare
One of the limitations of our “super-duper majority” is a lack of conversation of how to enhance, not inhibit, rural healthcare. True leaders do not not make access more difficult or stigmitize those that may need a bit of extra help. I am a support of Medicaid expanstion and believe our state government should put rural healthcare at the top of the priority list. We need to take the judgement and nastiness out of the conversation. True leaders
need to ensure we are there for those that need us most.
And I won’t stop empathizing.
And yes, Data.
I’m using a bunch of technology to win this election. You are using a bunch of technology to learn about the candidates. It’s ever changing, ever frustrating and ever the reality of our lives. Let’s navigate with thoughtfulness. Let’s use the amazing resources we have in this state to evaluate the dangers while capitlizing on the possible gains tech can bring. It’s a fast moving target and on this one, leaders must keep learning, keep adjusting and keep communicating.
And I won’t stop learning.
“Together, we can build a future that works for everyone.”
about leslie
Family: Ed, Clare & Cecilia
Jobs: Mom, Barista, Ice cream-slinger, event planner, business owner, toy-picker-upper, snack maker
Loves: Small towns (Vermillion!), Purdue sports, coffee, karaoke, yoga, family, friendships
Education: Purdue University (B.A.), Indiana University (MPA)
Service: United Way of Vermillion, Board of Directors, VCDC, Board of Directors, Vermillion School Bond Marketing Committee Member, President - Graduate School Student Government
What? Like it’s hard? - Elle Woods
I love Elle Woods (Legally Blond), but the thing is, this is going to be hard. It’s going to take a lot of resources, a lot of time and a lot of time. Every $1 really does count. And may I interest you in a monthly donation? That way I can plan for the future, which will allow me to plan for THE future (see what I did there?)!
Donate below or send a check to:
Leslie Gerrish for House
1416 Cornell Street
Vermillion, SD 57069
