Here are my thoughts on ballot items for this primary election:
National Elections
Presidential Primary
Joseph R. Biden. Because, you know… Women’s reproductive rights, human rights, the Supreme Court, climate change, American workers, Russia, truth, dignity, the future of democracy in the US, ….
United States Senator
Adam B. Schiff. Longtime supporter of the San Gabriel Valley’s interests in the House. Strong businesslike presentation of the impeachment case against the former president.
US Representative, 28th District
Judy Chu. In Washington, Judy Chu looks after the interests and sensibilities of Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley. Let’s re-elect her.
State Measure
Proposition 1 – Bonds for State mental health treatment facilities
Yes. Build more facilities for mental health care, drug/alcohol treatment, and housing for people experiencing challenges with mental health, drugs, and alcohol. Directs counties to use their portions of funds for similar needs.
Los Angeles County
District Attorney
Jeff Chemerinsky. Violent crime is down in LA County, but property crime is up. People believe that criminals run rampant, but I am not convinced of the validity of their fear-mongering. Chemerinsky brings a healthy balance between “don’t bother arresting anyone” and “lock up everyone for decades.”
Supervisor, 5th District
Kathryn Barger. Continue serving the needs of – and solving problems for – the huge portion of the county that runs from South Pasadena, across mountains and deserts, up to the Kern County line.
Pasadena and Surrounding Communities
Mayor
Victor M. Gordo. Victor grew up in Pasadena, has served our city for years, knows us and our neighbors, and works to meet the needs of our city.
Pasadena Measures R, S, and T
Yes. These three measures clean up language in the City Charter and also enable better methods for contracting with service providers.
State Senator, 25th District
Sandra Armenta. Rosemead City Council member and teacher who claims to have the most balanced approach to legislating, taxing, and spending.
State Assembly, 41st District
John Harabedian. Pasadena resident who shared with the LA Times: “I believe every Californian should have an affordable place to live, a job that pays a livable wage, access to quality affordable healthcare, access to natural resources like clean water and open space to survive and thrive, and access to the best free education possible.”
LA County Judges
Following recommendations of the LA Times Editorial Board:
- Office 12 – Lynn Diane Olson
- Office 39 – Steve Napolitano
- Office 48 – Ericka J. Wiley
- Office 93 – Victor Avila
- Office 97 – Sharon Ransom
- Office 115 – Christmas Brookens
- Office 124 – Kimberly Repecka
- Office 130 – Leslie Gurierrez
- Office 135 – Steven Yee Mac
- Office 137 – Tracey M. Blount