As someone who was born and raised in California, I grew up believing that America is the land of opportunity. It is a place where you can reach your full potential if you work hard and do the right thing.

I was fortunate to get a great education by attending California's public schools from kindergarten through medical school. By working part time and with the help of federal student loans, I graduated with less than $10,000 in debt. I became a doctor and, along with my wife Janine, was able to support my family and raise my daughter Sydra. This was all possible because my country made an investment in me.

But today, many families have to work harder and harder to realize their American dream. I know many are worried that their children may end up worse off than they are. We're living in a different and changing economy.

As we continue to recover from a financial crisis that cost people their jobs, homes, and retirement savings, we're also experiencing a shift in our economy. Many families are still under stress and aren't earning enough to make a decent living or save for their retirement. At the same time, we're living in an increasingly interconnected world and the internet and technology are reshaping how our economy works.

We have to do a better job of keeping up with these changes so more families can be a part of the middle class dream and can get ahead in life. That means not only creating more jobs and opportunities, but ensuring more families have the tools they need to earn a decent living and a secure retirement. That has to include ensuring equal pay for equal work, lowering health costs, making college more affordable, and more.

Here's how I'm working to help more Sacramento County families get ahead:

Supporting Sacramento County Workers:
Helping Families Balance Home and Work Life:
Strengthening Retirement Security:
Lowering Health Care Costs:
Making College More Affordable:
Helping More Families Buy and Own a Home: