Dear Editor,

Proposition 32 reads; “Prohibits unions and corporations from using payroll deducted funds for political purposes” – “Prohibits unions and corporations from contributing directly or indirectly to candidates and candidate controlled committees.” This proposition is aimed at getting the big money out of elections. Individual voters are supposed to be electing their representatives not special, interest organizations controlling the election for their own exclusive, self -serving interests. The California Teacher’s Union also known as “the co-equal fourth branch of government” in Sacramento gave $211 million between 2000 and 2009 in political contributions and lobbying. Since then the CTA has spent another $40 million including $4.7 million to help Brown become Governor. In 1996, CTA authored and successfully got passed a law designating 40 percent of the State’s General Fund will be guaranteed to go to public schools but they continually want more money. This proposition is trying to level the playing field and provide a fair election process where individuals not organizations elect candidates. Please think seriously about voting YES on Proposition 32.

Brewster Burns