The Arizona general election will be held on November 6, 2012, with early voting starting on October 11. After the many recent legislative challenges to reproductive health care access, both nationally and statewide, the importance of voting in November can’t be overstated. To help voters, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona has endorsed candidates who have shown strong commitment to reproductive health and freedom. Along with those endorsements, we are spotlighting our endorsed candidates in a series called “Meet Our Candidates.” To vote in the general election, you must register to vote by October 9 — and can even register online. Make your voice heard in 2012!
[S]heri Van Horsen has experience in a variety of government service positions. A candidate for the State House of Representatives in previous years, Van Horsen now seeks to represent the newly drawn Legislative District 21 — which includes the areas of El Mirage, Sun City, and Peoria — in part to help combat the legislature’s recent war on reproductive rights, women, and health care. In addition to her endorsement from Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona, she has been endorsed by the Arizona Women’s Political Caucus.
Van Horsen took the time for an interview with us on September 23, 2012.
“A fundamental right in this country is the freedom to make our own health care choices and to be secure in the ownership of our own bodies.”
Tell us a little bit about your background.
I have a background in law and have worked as deputy director of constituent services for Gov. Janet Napolitano. I previously served as an executive administrative assistant to the chief of staff for the attorney general’s office; director of constituent services, attorney general’s office; special projects coordinator for [the] Anti-Meth Task Force; Consumer Protection Task Force; community groups; ethnic group committees; Homeland Security Task Force; special paralegal – criminal division – voter fraud unit, white collar crimes and severance unit, attorney general’s office.
I am married to Michael Tarrats, and we share two beautiful daughters. We are dedicated to working hard for a better life for our children, and we share a passion for community service, advocating for workers’ rights, and holding politicians accountable for their actions. We have four dogs, two cats, and a house full of love.
Why do you think it is important that people make their own health care choices? What role do you feel the government should play in legislating and facilitating health care services, especially family planning services?
It is a fundamental right afforded to all Arizonans that we decide what is best for ourselves and our families. All of our situations are unique and as individuals, we are in the best position to decide what is best for ourselves and our families. Government need only ensure that Arizonans are receiving quality care from licensed professionals and that facilities are safe and operating at or above industry standards. Continue reading