By james art To help inform voters about the November 5, 2024 election, this candidate questionnaire is available for republishing by local North Carolina publications at no cost. Please consider subscribing to The News & Observer to make this coverage possible.
Name: Laura Pichardo
District/Headquarters: Senate District 23
County or counties represented: Caswell, Person and Orange
Political Party: a republican
Age as on 5 November 2024: 33
Campaign website: www.pichardonc.com
Current Occupation: Business analyst and account executive
Professional experience: Results-driven Senior Accounts Payable Analyst with 15 years of experience in AP, SaaS and AP Financial Reporting. Overpayments refunded and cost savings found. Skilled in data analysis, SOX controls and cash forecasting. Strict with reporting deadlines and closing at the end of the month. Trained parsers reducing AP lag time. Experience in AP management, ensuring financial accuracy and financial security. Small Business Grant Writer.
education: Master of Business Administration, Winston-Salem State University. Bachelor of Science, University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement. Advocating for Internet access in rural Caswell County, North Carolina. Caswell Republican Party Treasurer. He served on the board of Caswell Economic Development. Active in the local community. Advocate for small business, rural tourism and economic growth.
What will be your top priority if elected?
To close the gaps in our economy and reduce unemployment. To improve the economy in the rural parts of my area. To make sure teachers have the tools they need to teach our next generation of North Carolinians. I want to see people thrive!
What percentage raises should civil servants, school staff and teachers receive in the next state budget?
To determine appropriate raises for civil servants, school staff and teachers in the next state budget, we need to consider the current rate of inflation. Typically, raises that match or slightly exceed the level of inflation help maintain or improve staff purchasing power.
What legislation would you support to improve the Triangle’s transportation, housing or infrastructure? Please be specific.
Improve infrastructure from Durham to Hillsborough to reduce traffic congestion where the lanes merge. Improve access to Caswell County, NC to reduce accidents and ensure safer travel. Advocate for greater transparency in project bidding, allowing more local businesses to compete for and secure employment opportunities, promoting local economic growth.
Do you think the Legislature should fund about $500 million in vouchers for private schools through the Opportunity Scholarship program? Why or why not?
The rural part of my area depends on public schools. I will have to assess whether we are getting a fair share of applicants for the scholarship program. My priority is advocating for the prosperity of my fellow North Carolinians in my district.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on this matter?
We’ll see.
Under the dome
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