Rep. Doris Matsui should follow Nancy Pelosi’s example and retire | Opinion
Matsui must follow Pelosi’s example
“Rep. Doris Matsui was asked serious questions. Her answers were unserious | Opinion,” (sacbee.com, Nov. 2)
When Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi recently announced she would not seek reelection, she set an admirable example of leadership and self-awareness. Pelosi has served with distinction and remarkable effectiveness for decades, helping guide our nation through historic challenges. She recognized that there comes a time for every leader to step back, and she chose to retire gracefully, on her own terms, while celebrating the next generation of public servants.
Rep. Doris Matsui has also served our region well for many years. Her dedication to public service is unquestioned. But, like Pelosi, she must consider the value of renewal in our political institutions. New voices and ideas are essential to democracy’s strength.
Pelosi showed us how a respected leader can transition with dignity. It is now time for Matsui to follow that example.
Donald Stauffer
West Sacramento
Pelosi’s legacy
“Pelosi’s impact on healthcare, LGBTQ+ rights and climate,” (sacbee.com, Nov. 6)
I was saddened to hear the news that Rep. Nancy Pelosi would not seek re-election. We have many problems that aren’t fixed yet in America — problems that Pelosi can fix.
But if we can learn from her successful example, great role models will take over for a new generation of leaders.
Eyoel Daniel
San Jose
Smart investors
“CalPERS expands renewable portfolio amid U.S. policy shifts,” (sacbee.com, Nov. 10)
It was refreshing to read CalPERS CEO Marcie Frost’s continued and increasing support for renewable energy investments for the CalPERS portfolio. With the ongoing assault by the Trump Administration to reduce — and even eliminate — renewable investments and deployment, the most revealing sentence from Frost’s column was: “Smart investors remain committed because they recognize that renewables are the most viable, scalable energy solution available today.”
I think we all know which adjective doesn’t apply to “investor” President Donald Trump.
Randy Ronning
Sacramento
Teachers deserve fair pay
“How much do Sacramento, CA, teachers make on average?” (sacbee.com, Jan. 8)
I’m a K–12 teacher. Unlike other professions, we are excluded from overtime protections under the Fair Labor Standards Act. We work 12-16-hour days supervising students, attending meetings and chaperoning trips — often without pay. Sick days are docked, even for medical leave or caring for a sick child.
This is exploitation. Teachers should either have a true salaried status, reflecting all work and leave, or be paid hourly with overtime. We are professionals shaping the nation’s future. It’s time our labor is valued fairly.
Lora Penaloza
Bakersfield
This story was originally published November 12, 2025 at 5:00 AM.