In 2018, California voters spoke decisively when they elected Gavin Newsom with 62% of the vote. Today, a few very wealthy Republicans have financed a recall campaign for the purpose of overturning that democratic process. I am appealing to you to decisively end this dangerous ploy by voting no and returning your ballot by Sept. 14.

California leads the nation on the most critical issues of our time, including climate change, voter protection, income equality, internet access for all, equal protection, access to preschool, universal health care, women’s reproductive rights, criminal justice reform and a livable minimum wage – just to name a few. The recent budget surplus ensures that we are well-positioned to make changes that will have significant impact.

Why would any voter who cares about these issues allow the Republicans to step in and shut down the progressive vision embodied by California and promote their regressive alternative? Let’s not allow a repeat of the last time we recalled a Democratic governor and ended up with a bankrupt state. Tax breaks for the rich could very quickly wipe out the surplus!

The leading Republican contender, according to the latest polls, is a right-wing radio show host. Among his off-the-wall beliefs:

• all pandemic mandates should be removed (we see how well that is working in the red states!);
• setting the minimum wage to zero;
• no parental leave after a birth in the family;
• ‘it’s debatable’ about how much people are to blame for climate change;
• the gender wage gap is a lie;
• Roe vs. Wade should go.

And the other 45 candidates are similarly unqualified.

I have lived all over the world and in many US states and I am by far the proudest to live in California — a state with hope, promise and a clear vision for a better future. I don’t want to wake up tomorrow and see all of that shattered because a slim minority engineered a recall election to allow a completely unqualified candidate to step into office.

You will receive your ballot in the mail in mid-August. Please immediately vote no on the recall and return it by mail, in a ballot drop box, or in person at your polling place on Election Day, Sept. 14.

We Californians are accomplishing such great things for our kids and our grandkids and generations to come. Your vote will assure our future stays strong.

Gillian Parrillo lives in north Lakeport.