Growing up, Eric Pickens personally experienced the transformative power of stable housing. A state program provided him and his mother an opportunity to escape a difficult situation, offering a lifeline that shaped his trajectory. As a first-grade teacher, Eric sees the harsh reality faced by many students daily – food insecurity, high rates of free and reduced lunch, and even homelessness. He understands that stable housing is not just a roof over one's head; it's a foundation for success. Eric is committed to ensuring every family has access to stable and affordable housing, breaking the cycle of instability that affects our community.

"In the classroom, I've seen the direct link between stable housing and a child's ability to learn. It's time to make sure everyone in our community has a secure place to call home."

Eric Pickens recognizes that safety should be a right and not a privilege, one that should be extended to every member of our community. Addressing the drug crisis requires a shift in approach – one that prioritizes treatment and gets drugs like fentanyl off our streets. Eric advocates for a comprehensive strategy that includes rehabilitation for those affected and a targeted strategy to disrupt the flow of drugs into our community. It's time to focus on results, ensuring our communities are safe and supportive for everyone.

"Safety should be a right, not a privilege. It's time to rethink how we approach public safety, focusing on treatment and results for a safer, more supportive community."

Drawing on his experiences in the classroom and as leader in his Union, Eric Pickens recognizes the importance of economic stability and workers' rights. He is dedicated to creating policies that empower our workforce, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for professional growth.

"A thriving community starts with a strong and empowered workforce. Let's prioritize economic stability and workers' rights for the benefit of all."

As a teacher, Eric Pickens understands the vital role transportation plays in connecting communities and facilitating opportunities for growth. Witnessing the impacts of unreliable transportation on families and students, he is committed to addressing the challenges within our ferry system. Eric will work tirelessly to improve reliability, accessibility, and sustainability in our ferry infrastructure, ensuring seamless connections that benefit everyone.

"I've seen the challenges families face when reliable transportation is not a guarantee. Let's work together to fix our ferry system, connecting communities and empowering progress for all residents."

Eric Pickens understands the importance of mental health and advocates for destigmatizing mental health issues and increasing access to mental health resources for those who need it in our community. Eric is committed to fostering an environment where mental health is prioritized, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need to thrive.

"Mental health is an integral part of our well-being. Let's break the stigma and ensure everyone has access to the mental health support they need."

As a seasoned first-grade teacher, Eric Pickens knows that education is the cornerstone of a thriving society. He is dedicated to advocating for equitable and quality education for every child. Eric understands the challenges faced by educators and students alike and is committed to shaping policies that promote a robust and inclusive educational system.

"Education is the key to a thriving society. Let's work together to ensure every child has access to a quality education, setting the foundation for a successful future."

Too many seniors and families in the 24th legislative district are struggling to pay their medical bills. Eric Pickens is committed to ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for everyone in our community. Drawing on his experiences as a teacher, he has witnessed the impact of healthcare disparities on families. Eric will advocate for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of our community, emphasizing the need to expand hospital capacity and retain medical staff, in addition to lowering healthcare costs.

"Access to affordable healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Let's work together to ensure everyone in our community has the healthcare they need."

Drawing on his experiences as a teacher and father, Eric Pickens recognizes the urgent need for climate action. In the classroom, he sees the importance of preserving a healthy environment for the well-being and future of our children. Eric is committed to supporting policies that address climate change, promote renewable energy while protecting jobs, and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

"In the classroom, I witness the curiosity and concern our children have for the environment. Let's take action now to protect their future by supporting sustainable policies and embracing clean energy solutions."

Eric Pickens understands the importance of creating a community that is inclusive and supportive of all its members. As a teacher, he has seen the impact of policies on LGBTQ+ students and their families. Eric is dedicated to advocating for a safe and accepting environment for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

"Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. Let's work together to create a community that embraces diversity and ensures equal rights for all."