Campaign Finance Reform

[ Letter to the Editor, SBN-P from David Wass, 12/22/2005 ]


When even the candidates themselves, without prompting, mention an issue, you know that it is time to address it and perhaps even do something about it. Perhaps you remember these post-election remarks, by both successful and unsuccessful office-seekers:

"We need to put a cap on campaign expenses" -- Mayor Blum.

"It is becoming more expensive and that creates some concern" -- Helene Schneider.

"To improve the system, we need to get around to public financing" -- Terry Tyler.

"The time for some kind of reform has come" -- Das Williams.

There are many examples to follow -- Albuquerque, Portland, Berkeley, and yes, Ventura. Both San Francisco and Los Angeles are organizing committees to study the problem.

Campaign Finance Reform is the next step in spreading democracy. How about a well-deserved gift for the voters of Santa Barbara -- organize a committee to study and create a Campaign Finance Reform ordinance, leading to approval of same by the City Council.

A great way to start the New Year.

David Wass, Santa Barbara


Letters to the News-Press