One citizen, one vote: For the People Act has California’s US Senators’ robust support.
One citizen, one vote is the basic premise of our democracy. Dark money in politics casts a large shadow over the voice of the people in our country. For the People Act (H.R. 1) addresses dark money’s influence in politics. As a citizen, I want my elected officials to work for me, not special interests. Isn’t that what a democracy is supposed to be? Representative of its citizenry?
As a retired high school government teacher, that’s what I told my students. Their vote matters: participating in the election process is the heartbeat of democracy. In order for our country to get back on track, we need to limit the influence of billionaires’ money and emphasize the role of the everyday citizen. For the People Act tackles this head on by providing for transparency in public financing of elections.
For the People Act has California’s US Senators’ robust support. Senators Manchin, Sinema and Romney, please, Americans need the US Senate to embrace clarity in political funding. I can think of no good reason why each candidate’s campaign finances ought to be anything other than an open book. Our democracy is counting on you! Make our democracy once again, For the People!
—Kimberly Jacobs, Lakeport
IHSS workers deserve better
I totally agree with Susan Cameron’s June 12 commentary where she reminded us that In Home Support Services workers in Lake County are still being paid minimum wage for the essential services they provide for the many Seniors who live here, and for others who need in-home assistance due to temporary or permanent disabilities. In fact, I think their pay should be raised by at least $2 per hour. These workers deserve better.
The points outlined by Cameron were right on. I had no idea that IHSS workers are the largest block of workers in Lake County. I also had no idea that Lake County is only responsible for 16 cents on the dollar paid to these workers, while the remainder comes from State/Federal sources. As Cameron stated so well, these workers live in Lake County and will spend their extra dollars at our retail stores and restaurants, thus benefiting our local economy. I would like our Board members to take this seriously and tell us what exactly is the downside that prevents them from negotiating with these workers and approving a more livable wage?
I have attended Board meetings during the past several years when IHSS workers presented their arguments for increased wages; I noticed that our elected officials appeared to totally ignore these concerns, even as community members stepped up to offer support for a pay increase. This must not continue. I urge our Board of Supervisors to do the right thing and remember one of their stated goals from the past: “Consider and promote the well-being and economic resilience of EVERY Lake County resident.” I urge everyone who cares about the well-being of their neighbors, to immediately contact their elected Supervisor about this issue. It is way past time to put this right.
—Debra Fredrickson, Kelseyville, CA
