Laura Wells holds a BA in foreign languages from Wayne State University and a Masters of Education from Antioch University. She has accumulated extensive experience in finance, business analysis, and computer programming. Wells has demonstrated leadership capabilities through her involvement in the Green Party, including roles as a founding member of the Green Party County Council in Alameda County and co-founder and managing editor of the national Green Party newspaper, Green Focus. She has also served on the executive committee of the "IRV for Oakland" campaign and ran for state controller. Her professional background and leadership roles have positioned her to address significant issues such as tax fairness, education funding, and sustainable energy.

Laura Wells combines progressive environmental advocacy with an unconventional economic approach, opposing Proposition 13 while advocating for a split-roll tax system. Her support for a Single Payer Universal Health Care solution juxtaposes with her opposition to nuclear power and carbon sequestration, revealing a nuanced stance on energy policy. Wells's proposal for a State Bank for California highlights an innovative economic strategy, suggesting a departure from traditional bailout practices. Her rhetorical style emphasizes localized, sustainable solutions while challenging established financial norms.