Candidate Questionnaire: Lisa Baker

Cary, NC — This is the sixth installment of our Candidate 2014 series, in which candidates get to respond in their own words to the same three questions.

As usual, we publish the responses in the order we receive them. Next up is Lisa Baker, running for the District 36 seat in the NC House.

Q: Why are you running?

I first ran for the NC House in 2012, concerned that progress in our state had stalled. Since then, there has been little change as elected officials catered more to their circles of power than to citizens’ needs.

Working in water quality for the state, as a small business owner, a farmer, and volunteer in the public schools, my church and community, I have built many relationships. I’ve learned that people want moderate, rational government that uses our hard-earned tax dollars to keep local communities strong and prosperous.  Regardless of party, people are tired of political extremes and want representatives that will understand their concerns, work for change, and be active in their community.

I still believe in the people of our state and know that, with good leadership, we can once again move forward. I’m running because I want to improve lives and create a brighter future for all.  NC House District 36 deserves a representative who understands and responds to the needs of our community.  I value my community relationships; I will listen.  And I am committed to making government work for you.

Q: What are your top 3 priorities and how will you get it done?

1. Public Education: national average for teacher pay and per pupil spending.
2. Environment: Protect NC’s natural beauty, clean water.
3. Woman’s Rights: medical access, reconsider Medicaid expansion.

Getting any “job done” as a newly elected official is challenging. Once elected, it will be imperative that I “learn the ropes.” This will involve getting to know my colleagues, some of whom will also be “new on the job.” It will involve listening, learning who shares my vision for change, and then working to assemble groups of lawmakers with expertise and knowledge in the areas related to my top priorities. Politics is aptly named because when governing works in a healthy way, it involves give and take as those elected to represent the needs of their district strive to find common ground, shared values, and workable solutions. I think a first step toward fulfilling my priorities would be to carefully review recent legislation, some of which was rushed through the governing process, to determine what impact (positive and/or negative) it has had/will have on individuals and groups across this state.

Q: Give us a brief bio and tell us about your relevant experience.

Lisa Baker, a lifelong resident of North Carolina, has lived in Wake County since 1983. She holds a BA in business administration.  Professionally, she has worked in water quality (5 years, NC Department of Natural Resources), and was an Executive Manager for Tupperware (20+ years), managing 60 people and winning top sale and recruiting honors. Lisa now owns an active farm, volunteers in the public schools, her church, and the community.  She and her husband of 28 years, have two sons:  a NC State graduate serving as a fire fighter in Holly Springs, NC, and a sophomore in public high school.

http://www.lisabaker4house.com/