Frank Pratt not truthful about record on education

As a father of three children, one of them a recent ASU graduate, I understand how important it is to prepare our students for a global workforce and the jobs of the future. That’s why this upcoming election is so critical. The education we give our children today will have a direct impact on jobs, the economy and the state of our nation.

Unfortunately, my opponent, Frank Pratt, has consistently voted against K-12 education.

I believe this is important to address because of the hypocrisy of many campaigns during this election cycle. When candidates say one thing, but vote another way. It’s politics at its worst.

During his campaign for re-election, Pratt stated: “I will continue to be a strong supporter of education.” He recently stated to inMaricopa.com that he will, “…find meaningful solutions to reform, and improve our educational systems.”

But Pratt’s voting record tells a completely different story. He voted YES on HB2008 to cut more than $500 million from K-12 education.

Frank Pratt and the state legislature eliminated all-day kindergarten, and their drastic cuts to education have put our schools last in the nation.

That’s not supporting education. Nor is it the solution to improving our educational system. Frank Pratt is wrong on education and he’s wrong for Arizona.

I am proud of my pro-education record. I helped pass all-day kindergarten, and voted to invest in our state universities for research. Because of that, I have continued to earn the endorsement of teachers and the Arizona Education Association.

That’s what it means to be a “Strong Supporter of Education.”

Ernest Bustamante is a candidate for state legislature in District 23.

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