Today, at events in Marin and San Francisco, I’m announcing my candidacy for State Senate in 2008. I am running to offer voters a change and give voters a choice. The issues confronting us today are huge, from climate change to health care for all. We need new ideas, new leadership, and new approaches.
That’s why I want to reinvent the office of State Senate. I want to bring together communities of interest to work on solutions. To that end, this month I’m going to initiate and lead a series of online discussions, what I’m calling “Communities of Interest Policy” talks. These talks will bring together citizens from Sonoma, Marin, and San Francisco to exchange ideas for addressing a variety of important issues, including transportation, the environment, housing, education and health care, among others.
I also believe people deserve a responsive, respectful legislator. I believe strongly not only in what I do but the way I go about it. Collaboration, respect, inclusion have been the hallmarks of my personal life and political career. And during my announcement, I will outline a series of pledges to back this up. Bringing people together — not tearing them down, dividing them or belittling them — is the only way to accomplish lasting, meaningful results and change.
A few have asked me: Why are you running for State Senate? “It’s because you’re out of a job,” they say. “It’s because you have a grudge against your opponent.” Neither is true. Democracy is best served when voters have a choice. A contest of ideas, styles, and substance can only help, not hurt the process. It makes politicians more accountable for their actions and more apt to listen to voters. If I have anything to do about it, this campaign will not divide our community. Indeed, I believe we will only come out stronger. I’m going to run a positive campaign. I challenge my opponent to do so as well.
Posted by markleno 
Posted by markleno 
Posted by markleno 
