Why immigrants’ rights advocates back Xavier Becerra for governor | Opinion

Becerra for governor

“What’s behind Xavier Becerra’s sudden surge in California’s governor’s race | Opinion,” (sacbee.com, April 21)

Xavier Becerra brings decades of public service, including leadership as California’s Attorney General, and a consistent record of defending workers, immigrants and vulnerable communities.

This moment also calls for the Democratic Party to recognize and invest in Latino leadership at the highest levels. Latinos are central to California’s economic and cultural strength, yet remain underrepresented in top leadership roles.

Supporting leadership that reflects the people of California is not symbolic — it is necessary. As the state looks ahead, the focus must remain on equity, inclusion and ensuring every family has a fair opportunity to thrive.

Angelica Salas

Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights

More funding for schools

“Fatal shooting at Sacramento’s Natomas High: What happened, what’s next,” (sacbee.com, April 17)

As a student, I know how important it is to have a safe, supportive environment to go to school. But many Sacramento schools have to deal with crowded classes, insufficient resources and safety concerns. These challenges can make it hard for students to be successful.

Funding for schools should be prioritized by local and state governments in order to improve the safety of students at school, provide better materials and give better support to both students and teachers.

Education is key to success. When students know that they are safe, they are better able to focus on their studies.

Birjodh Singh

Student, Florin High School

Narrow gubernatorial field

“Former state controller Betty Yee suspends campaign,” (sacbee.com, April 21)

The withdrawal of Betty Yee from the gubernatorial race highlights a mathematical reality that we can no longer afford to ignore: a fractured Democratic field is the greatest gift we could give to the national Republican platform.

This is about the future of our state’s climate goals, reproductive rights and economic stability.

For the good of the state, lower-polling candidates must consider if their continued presence in the race serves the public interest.

Debra McCartney

El Dorado Hills

Parking ticket nightmare

“Sacramento’s most legendary parking enforcement officer gave out 22,000 tickets last year,” (sacbee.com, April 15)

Fighting parking tickets takes time and money — I drove to court twice and spent 8 to 10 hours over 14 months fighting my tickets. Even then, the fine kept growing.

The system is byzantine. Each step has strict 21-day deadlines. Miss one, and you lose. Besides being complicated, it is slow. Most people give up and that’s the point.

The fines add up fast and can hit your credit and follow your registration.

Paul Cook

Baldwin Park