Gretchen Brown

Criminal Justice / Public Safety Expanding paid internships, after-school centers, and tech-skills programs that open pathways to careers—not incarceration. Healthcare Working to bring more federal resources to the district to tackle the maternal mortality crisis head-on. Healthcare Supporting community-based maternal health programs that center prevention, doulas, and culturally responsive care. Wages / Job Benefits Expanding paid leave, flexible scheduling, and job protections so working caregivers don’t have to choose between a paycheck and their loved ones. Taxes / Budget Using tax credits, grants, and low-interest loans to bring grocery stores, farmers markets, and mobile vendors into underserved neighborhoods. Economy Expanding job training and trade programs connected to the area’s core industries: energy, petrochemical, health care (The Medical Center), transportation and logistics (Ship Channel). Defense / Veterans Working to streamline the paperwork veterans face when applying for benefits—so earned care isn’t delayed or denied. Legislation Backing the Credit for Caring Act and other measures to provide financial relief for unpaid caregivers. Defense / Veterans Fighting to restore VA funding and protect the care veterans have earned. Economy Working to ensure residents have the skills and tools they need to thrive in an AI-driven economy. Healthcare Expanding affordable, community-based, culturally responsive mental health services so help is accessible to everyone, where and when they need it. Economy Prioritizing outreach and contract-readiness support for women-, minority-, and veteran-owned firms so neighborhoods across the district keep more of the wealth they create. Healthcare Increasing access to mobile mental health units, 24/7 crisis teams, and trauma-informed counseling centers across the district. Criminal Justice / Public Safety Investing in violence interruption, restorative justice, and youth mental health supports so young people get the help they need early. Criminal Justice / Public Safety Expanding survivor-centered support—including safe housing, trauma care, and legal protection—for those facing domestic and family violence. Economy Breaking down barriers to federal contracting with clear navigation, training, and matchmaking so entrepreneurs of all backgrounds can compete, win, and scale.