[How I, a registered democrat, am voting for the environment in the June 6, 2006 primaries in California. I'm stuck voting at my old address at zip 90035. Here's my current voting list.]
My vote for CA Lieutenant Governor: [update, 6/5/06] John Garamendi
What does the CA Lieutenant Governor do?: The LG takes over the State Governor‘s duties when the Governor’s unable to perform them. The LG also serves as prez of the State Senate, the Regent of the University of California and Trustee of the California State University System, and serves as chair or member of various commissions, including commissions for the environment.
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** Update 6/5/06: I’ve changed my vote due to a reader’s comment! See bottom of post for deets. **
[Pic from Garamendi's site]Another close vote for Californians concerned about the environment: Both Jackie Speierand John Garamendi have the endorsements of both the Sierra Club and the California League of Conservation Voters.
But Jackie Speier also has the California NOW endorsement, as well as the endorsement of many other feminists (including Gloria Steinem) and feminist organizations. She names environmental protection as one of her main issues, and is a solid supporter of women’s rights.
Speier’s main opponent’s Garamendi, who seems to be a decent insurance commissioner. His record, however, doesn’t measure up to Jackie’s as state senator.
The third candidate’s Liz Figueroa, who also has the endorsement of the Sierra Club, but is not expected to win.
Update, 6/5/06: I’m now voting for Garamendi, with new info I researched after reading this reader’s comment. Garamendi’s endorsed my my hero Al Gore, as well as by Vote the Coast and Clean Water Action. He also is avowedly pro-choice and supports women’s and gay rights.
Garamendi’s also made the environment a big part of his campaign platform. While Speier does seem to care about the environement, especially evidenced through SB 1478, she doesn’t seem to have the passion for it that Garamendi does.
As you know, I’m voting for the environment in these elections. I’ve thus changed my vote to Garamendi.
Hey LA Green girl check out Garamendi’s endorsement by Vice President Al Gore. If it’s the environment you care about, remember Garamendi’s role at the Clinton Department of the Interior and his position as point person for Gore at the Kyoto Treaty negotiations. If you saw, “Inconvenient Truth” this weekend, it is these actions that are trying to save our planet. Speier is a strong legislator but let’s check the facts on Garamendi. He may not have the razzle dazzle of Speier but he’s got the substance and a 30 year track record.
Comment by Esther — June 5, 2006 @ 9:18 am
Esther — Thanks for the info. I did more research after your comment, and have decided to change my vote to Garamendi.
Comment by Siel — June 5, 2006 @ 5:54 pm