Readers sound off in Letters to the Editor,

To the Editor:

On Sept. 14, Californians have a chance to exercise one of the most important rights we have as Americans, the ability to “vote” for our government leaders. The right to vote is a privilege, it's a right not shared by all citizens in other countries. This right is something that needs to be exercised often to insure we maintain that right, per the Constitution.

So, please get out and vote on Sept. 14.

In making that decision to recall Gavin Newsom ask yourself, were his decisions made for political purposes or for the betterment of Californians? Decisions made on COVID-19, such as lockdowns, destruction of business, students loss of 18 months of in-class learning for some. Were the decisions made based on science, or supporting a political party ideology? Gas tax money being used for non-highway programs and highways turned into tent cities.

I believe Gov. Newsom has lost the confidence of most Californians, and he needs to be replaced.

The quote “surplus money,” yet we have state workers and teachers retirement funds barely staying afloat, roads coming apart, new free school programs, expanding health care programs, and this is one-time money; how do we pay for it next year, and the year after that?

California has one of the highest tax bases on DMV services, surcharges on consumer products, gasoline, etc... Taxes will have to go up. Enough is enough, it's time to stop.

Please vote on Sept. 14.

John Maciel

Twain Harte