Mayor McCarty’s state of the city address ignores Sacramento’s financial woes | Opinion

McCarty’s priorities

“Sacramento mayor proposes 2026 ballot measure to fund housing, homelessness,” (sacbee.com, Oct. 20)

The city of Sacramento is swimming in debt. But you wouldn’t know that from Mayor Kevin McCarty’s state of the city address, during which he proposed a ballot measure for next year to raise a transfer tax to help first-time home buyers, “struggling renters” and more homes for the homeless.

Local voters have already demonstrated distaste for higher taxes. Meanwhile, McCarty’s pledge to bring a Major League Baseball franchise to Sacramento seems like a distraction from the real issues.

Bill Motmans

Sacramento

Kiley is unfit to serve

“CA congressman Kevin Kiley abstains in Epstein vote,” (sacbee.com, Sept. 4)

Rep. Kevin Kiley has proven himself unfit to represent Californians. His refusal to support releasing the Epstein files protects powerful interests, not victims.

John Bergmann

Lincoln

Prop. 50 is necessary

“Does early voting data on CA Prop. 50 provide a hint at whether it will pass?” (sacbee.com, Oct. 21)

A handful of multi-billionaires have bankrolled opposition to Proposition 50, with scary and inaccurate claims. I hope California voters don’t fall for that.

If Prop. 50 passes, we can work toward a Congress that will hold the president accountable, protect the Constitution and prevent further attempts to rig and suppress the votes. Prop. 50 is a temporary measure to counteract unprecedented election-rigging.

Madge Strong

Willits

Protect democracy

“Trump Said He Wouldn’t Touch the East Wing. Then He Tore It All Down.” (sacbee.com, Oct. 22)

Trump is taking a wrecking ball to the White House — which is par for the course, as he has already taken a wrecking ball to the rule of law, the Constitution and the separation of powers (among other long-held ideals of democracy).

Trump treats the White House as his northern Mar-a-Lago because he has no intention of leaving.

Susan Wallace

Cameron Park

Basic security

“How California health care premiums could skyrocket if shutdown continues,” (sacbee.com, Oct. 20)

As a Stockton resident and parent, I share the concern that rising health care costs could further strain working families across our state.

Many Californians are already struggling with higher costs for housing, food and education. A spike in insurance premiums, caused by political gridlock in Washington, would hit those who can least afford it hardest. Families like mine, with children in college and younger ones still at home, depend on reliable and affordable coverage. When that stability is threatened, it’s not just a policy issue; it’s a matter of basic security.

Amy Schippers

Stockton