Editor, Daily Nexus,
The election on Nov. 2 promises to be one of the most important in the history of our nation. Students at UCSB have a long history of civic action and rank at the top of the list of UCs in terms of voter registration and turn-out. This type of community participation is what makes democracy work. After you study and weigh the issues, I hope to have your support at the ballot box for my effort to serve in the State Assembly.
I have been on campus talking with students and answering questions. I also have visited sororities, the Campus Democrats, El Congreso and the Environmental Affairs Board. I have a group of 20 dedicated student interns who are helping me spread the word about my campaign. I can promise you that I will keep our conversations and your priorities in mind before I cast any votes on your behalf in the Legislature.
I have the endorsement of the California Teachers’ Association, State Superintendent of Schools Jack O’Connell and Assemblywoman Hannah-Beth Jackson because they know I will work hard to fully fund education, work to stop the increase in fees for college students and safeguard financial aid. I am the proud product of public education, and I want to make sure that you have all of the same opportunities that I had.
During the past eight years I have served on the California Coastal Commission, fighting to protect our coastline from the dangers of oil drilling and rampant development.
As your assemblyman, I will continue to work for affordable healthcare for all. I am the only candidate in this race who supports Proposition 72, which will extend health insurance coverage to an additional 1.1 million Californians. I have worked to help women and their families as an Advisory Board Member of the Rape Crisis Center. I will always protect a woman’s right to choose. That’s why I am the only candidate in this race endorsed by Planned Parenthood, the National Organization for Women and the Santa Barbara Women’s Political Committee.
When making up your mind about who to vote for on Nov. 2, ask yourself who represents you the best – a candidate who is benefiting from $250,000 in expenditures by Chevron/Texaco, Sempra Energy, Wal-mart and Philip Morris – or someone like me who has the backing of CA Firefighters Association, CA Nurses Association, CA Teachers Association, CA School Employees Association, Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood and the Women’s Political Committee. So on Nov. 2, just remember – Vote for Pedro!
