Kudos for two columns
The first (Aug. 21-27) by Theo Wierdsma, entitled “Climate Change Turns Deadly” summarized the existential (and inevitable) threats to our children’s future posed by Climate Change, and questioned the inaction of our current federal government.
The second (Aug. 28-Sept. 3) was by Pastor John Song and juxtaposed the teachings of Christ and the actions of the current federal government.
Who IS our federal government? Basically, it is controlled by President Donald Trump, who at present has an approval rating in the mid thirties. WHY are his unpopular policies still being supported when the vast majority of voters oppose them? Because of Republican congresspersons that still support him. HOW did these Republican congresspersons get there (and stay there)? They are elected, and apparently still supported by our Republican friends and neighbors.
So, basically, what I want to say is that the chaos that President Trump has brought us (wars, prices, tariffs, instability) is on you, Republican voters.
I beg you to please open your eyes and pay attention to what is happening to our Democracy.
Don Eggleston
Aptos
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No on Prop 5—Recall Revenge
California voters have had the power to recall statewide officials and choose their replacements for more than a century. Proposition 5 would change that by keeping the recall vote but eliminating voters’ ability to choose a replacement on the same ballot.
Supporters say the current system can produce a winner with only a plurality and may confuse voters. But those concerns can be addressed through better ballot education without taking away voters’ ability to select their next statewide official.
California’s recall process was adopted in 1911 as part of reforms intended to give voters more control over government and reduce the influence of political machines. Since then, statewide recalls have been rare, with only a handful succeeding.
Whatever one thinks of the current system, the principle is straightforward: If voters decide an elected official should leave office, voters should also have a voice in deciding who replaces them.
Proposition 5 would separate those two decisions and shift replacement power away from voters.
Don’t give up your right to choose. Vote No on 5.
Mike Lelieur Pleasure Point |
