Elected office is earned

Peter Salas is dismayed that "two women of color are being challenged in their respective races.” (“Dems and DEI,” March 4)

To him I say: Nothing entitles an elected official to tenure. 

In Boulder County, where Democratic candidates see little opposition from Republicans or any other political party, it is vital that registered Democrats decide whether the best candidate for office is an incumbent or a challenger. This decision started in last Saturday's precinct caucuses.

— Janet Grassia, Boulder

Keep local women in power

Thank you for publishing the op-ed by long-time Boulder County Democrat and community activist Pete Salas on the primary races involving incumbent State Representative Junie Joseph and Boulder County Commissioner Marta Loachamin.

As Pete pointed out, both of these women of color are highly intelligent, widely respected, well liked and very effective in their positions. It is unclear why primary battles in their cases are justified. 

Regardless of whether there is racism at work, I encourage Boulder Weekly readers to get to know these two great women and judge for yourselves. 

I do a lot of work on climate change and clean energy issues and have interacted with both State Representative Joseph and County Commissioner Loachamin. After every interaction, I've come away impressed and grateful that these two intelligent, thoughtful, talented and very likable women are serving our community! 

I will be supporting Joseph and Loachamin and hope that Boulder Weekly readers will join me. 

— Leslie Glustrom, Boulder

Don’t complain: Call

Love Richard Kiefer’s reminder to “Don’t complain: Vote!” (“The case for voting even when you don’t want to,” Feb. 19). The same can be said for speaking up to those who represent us.

Right now, senators need to be reminded how important it is to pass the recent tax bill already passed by a bipartisan majority in the House. This bill will lift 500,000 children out of poverty and give 16 million Americans a leg up to battle hunger and homelessness. 

Call those who represent you (202.224.3121) to encourage them to pass this and other initiatives of hope that can really make a difference. It beats complaining.

— Willie Dickerson, Snohomish, Washington

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