Activist Simons runs against Pasrnell

Carson City activist Jeanne Simons has announced she will run for the Assembly District 40 seat representing most of Carson City.

Simons, 41, will run on the Republican ticket for the seat now held by Democrat Bonnie Parnell.

"I believe I would represent everyone, not just Republicans," she said. "But I believe the Republicans have a good platform and stand for good issues."

Simons has lived in Carson City for 26 years. She is a former nurse and part owner of a small business.

She has been active in the GOP as well as on a variety of issues, particularly those involving public education and giving parents more say over the education their children receive.

"I've tried to be a voice for moms and dads and our children," she said.

She said, however, she does not support the teachers' union petition that would impose a 4 percent net business tax to increase public school funding.

"I think businesses do a lot for schools," she said. "I believe as the governor said that the petition is very divisive."

She has also lobbied before the Legislature on educational issues, including more freedom to explore alternatives such as charter schools.

"I don't believe our children are disposable," said Simons, mother of three teenage boys. "We need to create more educational opportunities for children and decrease our high school dropout rate."

She also said she supports a pay raise for state workers.

Simons said she would support programs for people with disabilities, helping seniors pay for expensive medicines and efforts which help seniors maintain the ability to live independently.

Simons plans to formally announce her bid for office at this week's county Republican Party convention in the Ormsby House.