On The Issues

Too many St. Louis County families are struggling under the weight of rising costs and economic uncertainty. Prices remain high while many wages have failed to keep pace. Families are making difficult choices every day—between groceries, housing, healthcare, transportation, and other basic necessities.

Across our community, residents are worried about job security, affordability, and their ability to provide for their families. Concerns about healthcare costs have intensified as changes to federal healthcare programs and the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies have increased costs for many Americans. Analysts project that millions could face higher premiums or lose coverage altogether.

Maria believes the role of local government is to make life better for working families—not harder.

Throughout her career, Maria has brought people together to solve complex problems. She will work with state and federal partners to secure investments that strengthen St. Louis County's economy, improve infrastructure, support neighborhood businesses, create quality jobs, and position the region for long-term growth.

AFSCME in Ferguson

Maria has long supported project labor agreements, collective bargaining, apprenticeship programs, and prevailing wage standards that protect workers and strengthen communities. Whether it is steelworkers, laborers, electricians, bricklayers, healthcare workers, or public employees, Maria understands that when workers succeed, entire communities prosper.

Her commitment to workers' rights is personal.

As a college student, Maria helped organize workers who were seeking fair treatment on the job. Later, as a member of the Communications Workers of America and UFCW, she experienced firsthand the importance of workplace representation, fair wages, and safe working conditions.

Ron Fredman

During her public service career, Maria has consistently stood up for workers facing discrimination, retaliation, and unfair treatment. As a Missouri State Senator, she conducted one of the longest filibusters in Senate history on behalf of workers who faced discrimination in the workplace. She believes every employee deserves dignity, respect, and protection under the law.

Maria also believes public employees should never have to fear harassment, retaliation, or unsafe working conditions. County government should set the standard for workplace professionalism and accountability.

As a member of the County Council, Maria would support policies that promote workplace safety, protect employee rights, strengthen labor-management relationships, and ensure that every worker is treated fairly.

Because economic growth means little if working families are left behind.

A stronger St. Louis County starts with good jobs, safe workplaces, thriving local businesses, and an economy that works for everyone.

Percy Green