(Note: I sent this to my political list last week.)
Hello Friend,
I’m sending this to you as someone I have encountered in my Santa Clara County political journey over the last couple of years.
I am asking you to Please Vote in the upcoming county election on December 30th, for the important position of County Assessor. I support Neysa Fligor, who currently works in the Assessor’s office.
In my opinion, Neysa has the experience and temperament to be the next county assessor. The other candidate has neither. Moreover, the other candidate’s proposals lack both common sense and a basic knowledge of State Law. Neysa knows the job, and I am confident she will do well.
Why is the role of County Assessor Important?
The position of County Assessor is arguably the most impactful local office that often flies under the radar. Because the Assessor determines the value of every property in the county, they are the gatekeeper for the revenue that funds our most vital public services—our schools, fire departments, emergency response, and libraries all rely on the accurate tax rolls this office produces.
But beyond just funding, an effective Assessor protects homeowners by ensuring the tax burden is distributed fairly and legally, navigating complex laws like Proposition 13 so that no one is overcharged or squeezed out of their home due to administrative errors. We need a candidate who is not only technically competent to manage these massive valuations but also committed to the transparency and fairness that keeps our local economy and neighborhoods stable.
Call, text or email me if you want more info. But Please Vote! If you have questions about how to vote and where, let me know. I am happy to help.
This quote above from Nelson Mandela seems apt lately. Our campaign did not turn out how I would have liked, but some great things happened, and I learned a lot.
Great Things Happened
One of the best (and also worst) things that happen in a campaign is you find out who your real friends and supporters are. I’m proud of the folks who have endorsed and supported me. For endorsers, I am most proud to have had the support of David Cohen, someone I greatly respect, as well as Patrick Ahrens, who I know is going to make a great Assemblyperson. I am honored beyond belief to have the support of the NorCal Carpenters Union, and the laborer’s union, LiUNA local 270. I am equally proud of my other endorsers, including Chappie Jones, Carlos Rosario, and more.
I also learned who my friends and supporters are. I will forever be comforted by this photo of my campaign kickoff, all the way back in July. When I look at this photo, I know I have won. I am so proud of these people and honored to have them at my event.
Campaign Kickoff, July 29th
Finally, I got to meet a lot of my neighbors, and it was a great experience. I come from the Catholic faith tradition, and Pope Francis talks about “encuentro”. This is encountering another person, but in a deep way. In Spanish, encuentro has a deeper meaning. Encuentro involves an openness to The Other in hopes of a true understanding of them.
I had many encuentros that I am grateful for. I am thinking of Susan in the TAPNA neighborhood, Leonard on Davis Street. Jean, who just got back from a devastated western North Carolina. John in Santa Clara who is dealing with health issues. And Katherine and Bear downtown, who had great questions about water, water policy, and politics. After talking with folks like these, I’m more hopeful about the future than have been in a long time. There are a lot of good, thoughtful people out there. We’re going to be ok.
I Learned A Lot
I did learn a lot in this process. As mentioned above, I learned who my friends and supporters are. I also learned how to crisply articulate my values, what my plans are, and how I will make my voters’ lives better.
I learned that endorsements matter. One key data point was that as we approached the election, there was a marked spike in traffic to the endorsement page. It looks like people do pay attention to this. Something to do better on next time.
I learned 1:1 in-person contact with voters is the most valuable interaction. It is the most joyous part of the job. I also learned that this is not scalable. You need people to help carry your message.
I learned that if you don’t have a database of contacts you can lean on, you are at a disadvantage. The voter file is not enough.
I learned I liked taking on problems that voters had. For instance, the folks in the TAPNA neighborhood have houses with basements that routinely flood, especially after wet years like the one we have last winter. I also enjoyed working with a voter, David, on getting a leak in an empty lot fixed. It look way to long to fix, but he got it done. I credit this approach to Forrest Williams, former city councilman, mentor, and raconteur of the highest order.
I also learned that folks have a lot of concerns about water. Mainly, they’d like lower water rates, and more efficient Water District. I hope the new board and my opponent pay attention to this.
I learned I can precinct walk in 103 degree heat. With the right clothing and enough water, you can do anything. Take that Climate Change!
I learned that digital marketing is not a panacea. I ran a multi-channel approach with search, display, video, and social ads. We focus on all kinds of segments including democrats, engineers, cybersecurity folks, and even Catholics. It was not enough.
I learned to get help from staff and volunteers early, and let go. They will do it differently than you will, but you need to let it go.
I learned that sometimes, the person who you are is not what the majority of the establishment or voters want. I learned that there were folks who would not vote for a 59-year-old, white guy, no matter how good his ideas were. And that I had to not take it personally and move on quickly to the next interaction.
Gratitude
First, I am thankful for Frances Herbert, who was my consultant during this process. I’m grateful for her steady hand, focus on data (especially from the Voter.Vote platform), and generally keeping me from doing dumb things. The fact that we did as well as we did is a testament to her work.
Second, I am grateful for the staff and volunteers, including James Deng, Joseph Fierro, Steve Samuel, Claudia Martinez, and GOAT Jenny Coupe. And to Dylan Lehmann who gave me some valuable training on how to do precinct walking in the early days. I am also grateful for Spanish translation help Monsé Rodriguez and Leslie Murillo. And also to folks like Jon Pedigo and Darren Seaton for his advice and counsel.
And a special thanks to my campaign coordinator/manager/sidekick Anthony Shing whose boundless energy challenged me and bouyed when I needed it.
Third, thank you to my family. To my passel of cousins/aunts/uncles/friends, you supported me early, and I am forever grateful. One of the best parts of running a campaign is that you see who is really “with” you. You were there for me, and I am grateful. I owe you.
To my daughters, thanks for keeping me human, and reminding me about balance. I remain so proud of you. I love you always and forever.
And finally, to Dara, who tolerated this mess, and sacrificed a lot. She raised me up during the tough times, and tried to bring me back to reality. Thank you for standing with me during this process. I could not have made it without you. Thank you for being a the supportive partner I needed.
In reality, running for office is something I always wanted to try. Thanks to all of you for helping make this happen.
As I stand for election to the Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee, I’m reaching out to share my vision and to ask for your support on this journey. My commitment to our community’s well-being, equality, and progress has never been stronger. I’m running because I believe in our collective power to make a difference in the lives of every resident in our community.
✨ Why I’m Running:
To Advocate for You: My primary goal is to represent your needs and concerns, ensuring they are heard and addressed at every level. Experience and Dedication: With a history of involvement in our community’s growth and well-being, I understand the challenges we face and have the experience to navigate them. A Future Built Together: My vision is for a more inclusive, just, and sustainable community. I am committed to policies that protect our environment, foster economic growth, and promote social justice.
🗳️ This Election Matters:
Your vote is powerful. It’s a testament to our democratic values and our shared aspirations for the future. I’m asking for your vote not just as an endorsement of my candidacy but as a commitment to the values we share and the future we envision together.
I truly believe we’re in a battle. Not between Democrats and Republicans, Liberals and Conservatives, but between those who believe in our system and those who want to tear it down. A vote in the primary a statement that you believe in our American System.
🙏 Your Support is Crucial:
Spread the Word: Share this post with friends and family. Your voice can amplify our message and bring more supporters to our cause. Share this message with others. Subscribe to my newsletter about the local party. Get Involved: There are many ways to contribute to our campaign, from volunteering to hosting virtual events. Every action counts. Contact me, or volunteer locally. Vote: Make your plan to vote. Every vote brings us closer to our goal of a community that works for everyone. Make sure you and your friends and family are registered.
I am here to serve, to listen, and to act. Together, we can achieve extraordinary things. Join me in this campaign for a brighter, more inclusive Santa Clara County. Let’s make our voices heard and our votes count.
Thank you for your support, your trust, and your vote.
Ballots Drop: February 5th Election Day: March 5th
My key priorities include Immigration Reform, Poverty Alleviation, and Housing Affordability. I’m looking forward to bringing positive change together with your support.
I have previously posted that I’m running for Santa Clara Valley Water District. This election will be in November of 2024. For more information, see the Elect Bill Roth site. Now it is time to talk about the Democratic Central Committee. This election is part of the partisan primary election in California on March 5th.
I am also running for Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee SCCDCC for Assembly District 28. I am running to be your advocate on the SCCDCC. Let me know your thoughts using this contact form.
What the Heck Is Democratic Central Committee?
In California, the Democratic Central Committee (DCC) plays a pivotal role in shaping and directing the activities of the Democratic Party at the county level. The DCC is essentially the local governing body of the Democratic Party within each county, responsible for coordinating party activities, endorsing candidates, and mobilizing Democratic voters. Comprising elected representatives from each assembly district within the county, the DCC serves as a grassroots organization that reflects the diverse interests and perspectives of local Democrats. Its members are typically elected during the Democratic primary elections, and they work collectively to advance the party’s goals and principles within the county.
The Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee
The main meeting place for members of the Santa Clara County Democratic Party is the Democratic Central Committee meeting, which is the first Thursday of every month.
The Santa Clara Democratic Party stands as a dynamic and influential force within the political landscape of California’s Santa Clara County. As the local arm of the Democratic Party, the Santa Clara Democratic Party plays a pivotal role in shaping the political narrative, supporting candidates, and engaging the community in the pursuit of progressive values and inclusivity. From candidate endorsements to grassroots organizing, the party’s multifaceted efforts contribute significantly to the advancement of Democratic principles in the region.
Candidate Endorsements
One of the Santa Clara Democratic Party’s primary responsibilities is to endorse and support Democratic candidates across various levels of government. Through a thorough evaluation process, the party identifies candidates who align with its values and vision for the community. Endorsements from the Santa Clara Democratic Party provide candidates with a powerful stamp of approval, signaling to voters that these individuals have earned the trust and backing of the local Democratic community. This support is instrumental in helping candidates navigate the complex landscape of local politics, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration within the Democratic ranks.
Community Engagement and Grassroots Organizing
Beyond the endorsement process, the Santa Clara Democratic Party actively engages with the community through grassroots organizing and outreach efforts. By establishing a presence at the local level, the party aims to connect with residents, understand their concerns, and address the unique challenges facing Santa Clara County. Through town halls, community events, and volunteer initiatives, the party fosters a sense of inclusivity and ensures that the diverse voices within the community are heard and represented in the political process. This commitment to grassroots organizing strengthens the party’s ties to the community, creating a platform for dialogue and collaboration.
Advocacy for Progressive Policies
The Santa Clara Democratic Party serves as a platform for advocating progressive policies that align with the values of equality, social justice, and environmental sustainability. By leveraging its collective influence, the party works to shape local policies that reflect the principles of the Democratic Party, addressing issues such as affordable housing, education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. Through collaboration with elected officials and community leaders, the Santa Clara Democratic Party strives to bring about positive change and contribute to the overall well-being of Santa Clara County residents.
In Santa Clara County, the Democratic Party is not just a political entity; it is a catalyst for positive change and community engagement. The Santa Clara Democratic Party’s activities, ranging from candidate endorsements to grassroots organizing, demonstrate its commitment to fostering a more inclusive, progressive, and responsive local government. As a driving force for democratic ideals, the party continues to play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of Santa Clara County, contributing to a vibrant and participatory democracy.
I am finally running for something! Many of you have known this day would come, and it is now here. I have filed papers with the county to run for the Santa Clara Valley Water District board of directors seat in my area.
This agency is responsible for ensuring clean water for all of Santa Clara County’s 2 Million residents, as well as for industry and agriculture. It has a budget of $860M(FY24: source) per year and is responsible for water management, flood control, and environmental stewardship in the county. Water is a serious business in California, and this is a big job.
The election isn’t until November 5th, 2024, but there at 138,989 (give or take) registered voters in this district, and I’m looking forward to talking to as many of them as I can. To see what I am up to, please subscribe to the newsletter at https://electbillroth.com/, or drop me a line at bill.roth.2024@gmail.com or consider donating.
As I have done in the past, I’m posting my ballot picks for June 7 California Primary. I post these for those that have questions. As I have written in the past, I’m not trying to convince anyone. These are not endorsements, but they are who I’m voting for. (ok, maybe that is kind of like an endorsement, but whatever).
I have seen Cindy in action for 20 years, as part of the local Democratic Party. She is a fierce competitor, as anyone who saw her run against Sam Liccardo 8 years ago will remember. But in my role on the boards of 2 local nonprofits, Sacred Heart Community Service and Gardner Health Services(a community clinic with over 60,000 patients/yr), she has consistently come through for the less fortunate in our community with significant funding on Housing, Homelessness and Rental Assistance, among may other issues. She’s the most experienced candidate who will continue to be a voice for the marginalized, and has a clear vision for a better San Jose. All Cindy, All the Way.
Anna has been a great supporting of Silicon Valley, and her office assisted me on some activitism back in the day. Vote for her. Ajwan Rading is a young up and coming candidate, but he’s still green on some issues important to the district like patent reform, and did not seem entirely supportive of the Labor Movement in some local events. Great future candidate, but Anna wins this one for me.
For those not in my district, I wholeheartedly recommend 2 great public servants, Zoe Lofgren, and Jimmy Panetta. Zoe’s history speaks for itself. She’s a figure of historic importance. And I have been in party Zoom meetings with Jimmy, and he’s the real deal, and I know his father is proud. He’s a serious, policy oriented House member, with detailed knowledge about issues that affect our area.
Looks, I had my doubts about him. Was he just a glory-chasing celebrity pol? Ok, maybe a smidge, but he’s been governing well and doing a good job working with the legislature.
I’m proud to have him as my senator. Since he’s filling in Kamala’s team, you have to vote for him for the rest of the year, AND for the next team. It’s California law, don’t blame me.
This is a difficult one for me. On the one hand Jeff Rosen has been a decent Democratic attorney District Attorney. On the other hand I’ve been frustrated with him at being too close to the San Jose police and not following up on the various stories of police misbehavior. He’s been mildly progressive come up but I think we deserve more. Also, district attorneys do not have term limits, and it’s time for a change. I do not want to be in a situation like back in the days with George Kennedy where we have an imperial District Attorney for 25 years. I support Sajid Khan because he’d be a progressive District Attorney and would look to lessen the carceral state, by looking for other alternatives other than jail for people with minor offenses. As a public defender, he’s had a front row seat at viewing prosecutorial misconduct and prosecutorial overreach. I hope that this will moderate his approach to law enforcement.
This is one of those races where there are not too many good choices. Nearly all of the candidates are associated with the existing corrupt regime in the Sheriff’s Office, or are Republicans. I would normally vote for Ahn Colton because she’s not even a member of the Sheriff’s Department, but as of 2020 she was a registered republican, and that’s just a bridge too far for me these days. She’s not a serious candidate either, as she doesn’t even have a website. Christine Nagaye is at least registered as a Democrat. God help us.
This measure seeks to move the San Jose mayoral elections to the presidential election year. The idea is that more people vote during presidential elections and therefore we would have greater voter participation. OK, I ‘spose. I’m not sure I follow this logic, because I think having elections more than once every four years it is important. Moreover, if you believe there are a fixed number of people working on elections this would essentially dilute campaigns and make them much less effective. It is also important to remind people that we live in a democracy and that as voters we have a responsibility to keep our elected officials in check frequently. And frequently fighting for democracy is important these days given the attack mounted against it. (See: Jan 6).
As I get older, I’ve become more invested in the notion that I really can’t convince anyone, politically, of anything anymore. This is an important statement come up because it literally changes how I make decisions on how I spend my time. This affects my politics mainly in the fact that I will not engage in debate, because I don’t believe I personally am effective in debating. The way I change people’s minds is by my actions. The way I make fundamental change is make sure that people who believe the same as I do get active politically, and above all vote.
So, instead of (or In addition to) shouting at the TV and sending my money to candidates I support, I choose to get involved. To give, as one of my long time faith community leaders used to say, my time and talent, as well as my treasure. I choose to take tangible action that will increase the political power of those who already share my opinion. Examples of this are: driving people to polls in Hamilton County Ohio (2008), knocking on doors in Modesto (2018), and being a poll watcher in Wisconsin (2020).
Why do I do this? Two principal reasons. First, in his last letter to the world, John Lewis made a profound statement that “democracy is not a state, it is an act”. One thing we learned from the period between 2017 and 2021 is that Democracy is fragile and can be taken away from us. We live in a Republic, where government derives its power from the consent of the governed. We learned during this period, that there are those who do not hold this positions. Moreover, we learned we must tangibly act to maintain it. We The People govern, and it requires work.
Second, and more importantly, I engage because I believe in the definition of this country, which I have written about before. This country is a secular, omni-ethnic, representative, democratic republic. And it is changing. By 2042, this country will be majority minority. No one ethnic group will have a majority. My efforts in this regard are twofold: to ensure the definition of this country remains the same, and to bring the non-majority (read: Non-white) groups into full participation in this country. Equal protection before the law, AND equal rights, equal opportunity and equal outcomes for all, no matter who your ancestors were, how able you are, how you worship, or who you love. This is the work of centuries, but I choose to start working on it now.
Why do I do this? Simple. I love this country, and as my faith tells me, all life is sacred. To do otherwise is to disrespect those two ideas.
There is a common joke that it is a “gaffe” when a politician accidentally speaks the truth. I believe it was a gaffe from Senator Lindsey Graham uttered the following words: “America is not a race. America is an idea.” I fully embrace this notion.
What is America? Not where is it, why is it, but WHAT is it as an idea? I contend it is this:
America is a secular, omni-ethnic, representative, democratic republic.
Let’s unravel this definition.
Secular: America is secular, in that, while the government must respect the free exercise of religion, the government can not establish or sponsor religion. This brings up 2 points. First, is America a Theistic nation, where belief in a higher power or powers is a baseline? If so, what about atheists? (I can argue either side). Second, from this it is possible to deduce that the citizenry can bring their religious-culture-inspired ideas to the public square, but can not enshrine a particular religious practice in law.
Omni-Ethnic: I use this neologism to imply all ethnicities are welcome, and none are specifically barred from participation. I use this awkward word intentionally, to imply inclusivity, as well as to recognize that ethnicity and race are fundamental to identity, and can not be ignored. I use this awkward word intentionally, also to connote that there is no such thing as a race neutral policy or law. At this point in our history, I believe people do not have the ability to be race neutral. As a result we must be conscious of this dimension in every public decision, as we do with gender, and sexual identity.
Representative: I use this word to indicate that we elect representatives to deal with the details of governance in a way that reflects the people of that constituency.
Democratic: America is a democracy. While we argue over everything, we vote. The people decide the issues through the common exercise of their franchise.
Republic: In a republic, the citizens are sovereign. In a country where the notion of the unitary executive perniciously creeps into public discourse, it is important that we remember that this is a republic. It’s not a monarchy, it is not a dictatorship. It is a country where the people rule. Those who govern do so only by the consent of the governed.
This has important implications. The first is that the People Rule. The President is not our ruler, merely the head of one of 3 co-equal branches of our government. We, The People, rule through our democratically elected representatives. We set the rules, and determine where our money is going. The President, and the Executive Branch are there to “execute” our wishes. The only time a President gets to set policy, is if we, through our representatives give him that ability. Finally, if there are questions or disputes on those rules we place on ourselves, the Supreme Court decides. But in the end, The People Rule.
To conclude, America is a country that values freedom. Freedom is not absolute, because you have freedom in so far as you are not hurting others. I’ll mention more about this incoming posts. Its founding ensures that we can live according to our values… So long as we are not hurting others. Why? Simply because we are all granted the right to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of happiness, both individually, and as a whole. And we have a responsibility to others.
I thank Senator Graham for his gaffe, and look forward to his retirement. It helped to frame my definition about what this country is. About what my country is. And what we need to preserve and protect.
I have done a post on my ballot picks for the last couple of elections. Here are my picks for November 2018.
Since some of my choices are the same as the primary, I’ll refer to that post for brevity.
Governor: Gavin Newsom. Not a tough call. See primary post for more details.
Lt. Governor: Eleni Kounalakis. See primary post.
Secretary of State: Alex Padilla. Primary post.
Controller: Betty Yee. Primary Post.
Treasurer: Fiona Ma. Still impressed. See primary post.
Attorney General: Xavier Becerra.See primary post.
Insurance Commissioner: Ricardo Lara. Primary post.
Member, Board of Eq., District 2: Malia Cohen. Primary post.
US Senator: OK, this is tough one, but I stand by my primary support for KDL, in spite of Senator Feinstein’s performance during the Kavanaugh hearings. (Sorry Anna).
House: Zoe Lofgren, for as long as she runs…..
State Assembly: Evan Low, primary post.
Judicial offices: I have not heard of any of them, so Yes to all.
State School Superintendent:Tony Thurmond. While my hijada is doing well at her Charter school, I think we need to support people of the current system. (I might have goofed in the primary.
County Supe: Don Rocha. Has the experience we need. And a nice guy too.
Sheriff: John Hirokawa. See primary post….too many scandals under Smith.
The State Propositions
1: Housing Bond: Yes. We have a serious housing crisis.
2: Bond for homeless/mental illness housing: Yes.
3: Infrastructure Bond: Yes.
4: Hospital Construction for Children’s healthcare: Yes
5: Changing requirements for tax treatment when people over 55 sell homes. OK, this is totally selfish, but I gotta retire some day, and I’ll be up for this in 2 year. Shameful, yes…but I’ll take my tax break for myself and my family.
6: Eliminating Road repair and transportation funding: No. Public safety issue.
7: Approval for State Legislature to change Daylight Savings Time. I hate this one, and I don’t care. So No.
8: Regulating Dialysis Treatment Payments. Why are we deciding this? Vote no.
10: Rent Control (Costa-Hawkins): We need to have affordable housing. Yes.
11: Making private ambulance drivers on-call during breaks. Again, why? I suppose Yes.
12: Setting farm animal enclosure standards. Seriously?! Voting no out of a fit of pique.
Local Propositions
A: Continue 1/8 cent sales tax. Yes.
S: Streamlines procurement, adjusts some thresholds. Yes.
T: Disaster Preparedness Bond: Yes.
U: Charter Amendments: Sure. Why not.
V: Local housing bond. Yes. See previous comments on housing.
5/15: Update with link to Merc endorsements and more thoughts on Governor.
A couple people have asked me for my opinion on things on the June 5th ballot, so here are my picks and the reasons why I am voting the way am.
But before I go through the ballot, let me note that this is an important elections, at the local, state and national level. As many of you know, I have been working on registering Spanish speaking citizens at Catholic Churches in the Modesto area, where there is some amount of chronic under-voting, and we have a real chance to flip a district to a Democratic seat. There are also good people running in San Jose, as well as some pretty nefarious propositions. So please, vote. Now, on with the picks:
It is important to understand my algorithm. I will pick candidates that share my values, but you also get points for running a good campaign, and points subtracted for running a bad campaign. This is because if you can’t run a campaign effectively, you will likely be unable to govern effectively.
My Picks
Candidates
Governor: I am torn. I have concerns about Gavin Newsom, especially after Stephen Colbert embarrassed him on the old show. And selling gay marriage in San Francisco was not really a tough sell. Had he been mayor of Louisville or Milwaukee, that would have been something. That said, I think he as fairly represented California as Lt. Governor. On one hand, he’s a 1-percenter, scion of the Gettys, that started a winery with family money. On the other hand, he has supported important causes, we line up on most important issues, and he throws great parties for Democrats at the state convention. And he’s from Northern California. We need someone to represent the north, to make sure our resources (especially water) do not get inappropriately siphoned off by southern California. The Merc seems to like him, for good policy reasons. They does not reflect the pause some are given by his messy first divorce, nor his current wife’s penchant for unfortunate mis-statement.
Antonio Villraigosa on the other hand, to me, represents what California is becoming. California is already a minority-majority state, and we should be represented this way. He has experience running LA, no mean feat. However, I am not sure he’d factor in Norcal in his decisions due to lack of experience.
I also like Amanda Renteria, but it feels like she is ballot-riding for her next job, whatever that is.
Pick: Today I am leaning Gavin, last week it was Villraigosa.You Pick. (I’ll update this when I make a choice)
Lt. Governor: Eleni Kounalakis gave a pretty good speech at the local Dem Pary Dinner, as did Jeff Bleich. Bleich has a serious resume, as a law clerk, lawyer and ambassador. Kounalakis was also an ambassador, and was born in Sacramento. She also seems to have decent money behind her, and is running a decent campaign.
Pick: Kounalakis
Secretary of State: Alex Padilla. Incumbent. Doing a good job.
Controller: Betty Yee. Incumbent. Doing a good job.
Treasurer: Fiona Ma. Gave a great speech at the local Dem Dinner. Very impressive and a solid accounting background.
Attorney General: Xavier Becerra. He’s been doing a great job standing up to Trump. Keep him in this seat.
Insurance Commissioner: Ricardo Lara. The *last* thing we need is a crypto-conservative shill for the insurance industry in the job. I’m looking at you Steve Poizner.
Board of Equalization, District 2: Malia Cohen. Great local candidate.
Senator: KDL (AKA Kevin DeLeon). After enough years, a change is needed. DiFi has been maddeningly centrist on national security and privacy issues. Its time for a change.
Congress: Zoe Lofgren. Because she’s one of my heroes.
State Assembly: Evan Low. Incumbent. Doing a good job.
Superior Court, District 4: Chiarello. He’s the only one running.
Recall Persky: Yes. The Standford case is all you need to know.
Persky Replacements: Unknown. You pick.
School Superintendent: Marshall Tuck. He has good endorsements from people I trust.
County Supervisor: Don Rocha. He understands central San Jose, and he stopped by the house. He’s working hard for it. (and he offer to help me load my Kayak.).
Assessor: Larry Stone. Cuz why not.
DA: Jeff Rosen. Incumbent. Doing a good job.
Sheriff: Too scandals/deaths at the County Jail for Smith to keep her job. Hirokawa.
Mayor: No real choice. Sam Liccardo. A good man who is trying to represent ALL of San Jose, and doing a good job at it.
Propositions/Initiatives
Prop 68: Bond measure for natural resources. YES.
Prop 69: Making sure the Legislature does not divert transportation money to something else. Duh. YES.
Prop 70: Requiring 2/3 super-majority on divesting cap-and-trade monies. I hate super-majorities. Seems anti-democratic. NO.
Prop 71: Sets effective date for ballot measures. Unclear what this is for but seems reasonable: YES.
Prop 72: from the why-are-we-deciding-this Dept.: Excludes newly constructed rain-capture equipment from reassessment. Umm….I guess so? YES. (Is the rain-capture lobby really this strong?)
RM3: Raise bridge toll. Not a big affect on me, and we need more monies for traffic alleviation. YES.
As many of you know, I obsess about politics the way other people do about sports. This has been the most interesting election cycle of my lifetime, both good and bad. I’ve been pouring over the my ballot, and I get excited when I get my State Voter Guide, which is online. and below are my picks for 2016 all the way down. Feel free to start a conversation on this.
My Picks:
President/VP: Clinton/Kaine
Senator: Kamala Harris. Look, I love Loretta Sanchez as a person, and I recognize and appreciate what she’s done in Garden Grove. But Harris is a serious candidate, and a historic candidate
Congress: Zoe Lofgren, now and forever. Proud to have her as my representative in Congress.
Prop 64: Yes. 420 dood. Then tax it. See Aquinas: “lex humana dicitur aliqua permittere, non quasi ea approbans, sed quasi ea dirigere non potens.” (ST 1-2.93.3.3)
Prop 65: Yes. Grudgingly. The bag ban is an example of the nanny state. Do you know how many groceries I have left in the parking lot because of this ban? But this redirects money to environmental causes.
Prop 66: No. Seems to me like taking away due process rights
Prop 67: No. See Prop 65. How much pasta sauce do I need to leave in the Safeway parking lot?
Measure A: Yes. We have the largest per-capita homeless population. We need to fix it.
Measure B: Yes. Traffic is a mess, future generations need BART. Yes to the sales tax.
Measure E: Yes. Be fair on offering extra hours. I have seen this abused.
Measure F: Yes. Its a decent compromise. Lets rebuild SJPD.
Measure G: Yes. Yes to Business Tax.
Measure X: Yes. Supports Job Training
Measure Y: Yes. More Property Tax to improve San Jose Schools.
My Current Senate map:
As extra credit: At this writing, my Senate Map looks like this. My current prediction is 50/50 split with VP breaking tie.
