Hostility to women in politics: Steve Maviglio, Democrats share blame | Opinion
Losing ground
“How California’s political culture is hostile to women running for governor | Opinion,” (sacbee.com, May 20)
It’s galling for a Democratic establishment guy like Steve Maviglio to lament California’s hostility to women candidates for governor.
Maviglio could help solve that, but when did he try? Instead, he helped unseat Sacramento’s last woman mayor.
When did he challenge the good old boys and tech bros who keep the “no girls” sign on the clubhouse? What solution does he propose to increase the number of women and people of color in politics?
After 250 years, American women are finally gaining ground in public office because of the tireless work of individuals and organizations like the National Women’s Political Caucus. But progress is slow and all marginalized communities, including women, are losing ground.
So spare me the empty noise. Until you can show what you’ll do to end the white male domination of political power, you’re part of the problem.
Karen Humphrey
Sacramento
Prevent deaths of unhoused Sacramentans
“Sacramento homeless count rises: Key takeaways from latest Point-in-Time report,” (sacbee.com, May 14)
We can prevent the 180 unhoused deaths we witnessed in 2025 by providing housing. We can also support encampments and establish self-governing “Safe Ground” communities, providing essential human needs and services, including sanitation, drinking water, trash pick-up and public health.
As the economic crisis in the city and county worsens, we must prioritize prevention and protection against homelessness, including a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures.
Faye Wilson Kennedy
Sacramento
A tragedy remembered
“Memorials for 50th anniversary of Yuba City High School bus crash: What to know,” (sacbee.com, May 21)
On that tragic day, I was a senior at Carondelet High School in Concord. Our class was in graduation practice, so we did not hear the announcements.
Coming out from our practice, we learned most of our faculty went to donate blood for the victims. I have prayed for those students every time I pass the Marina Vista off-ramp.
Thank you for remembering the lost souls and those who survived.
Jenifer McDonald
Sacramento
Coexistence with wildlife
“Are mountain lions a threat in California? How to weigh the latest warnings,” (sacbee.com, May 24)
The recent claims by the Lassen County Sheriff that mountain lions posed an “imminent threat” to public safety reflect a growing pattern of fear-based rhetoric surrounding California’s native predators. As reported, California Department of Fish and Wildlife officials found no evidence the lions posed a danger to the public, and no attacks on people, pets or livestock had occurred.
This manufactured hysteria is also reflected in Assembly Bill 1722, legislation seeking to codify expanded self-defense claims against wildlife, including mountain lions. California law already allows people to protect themselves in legitimate emergency situations, making AB 1722 unnecessary. Instead, the bill reinforces the false narrative that predators pose an extraordinary threat requiring weaker wildlife protections.
Public officials should promote coexistence with wildlife, not fear that ultimately puts these animals at risk for extinction.
Judie Mancuso
Laguna Beach
Luna deserved a spot
“U.S. Soccer Fans Outraged Over Diego Luna’s World Cup Snub,” (sacbee.com, May 23)
Nothing hurts more than the omission of Diego Luna, a Northern California native and one of the most spectacular young talents in Major League Soccer. Luna shined at last year’s Gold Cup, and his passion and explosive play gave fans much to cheer after many players opted out.
Edgard Vidrio
Roseville