Letters to the Editor | May 16, 2026

Coonerty possesses a 'deep understanding' of SC matters

Effective leadership begins with individuals who can recognize challenges, foster agreement, and achieve outcomes. For me, one of the finest examples of this within our community is Ryan Coonerty.

Being the sole mayoral candidate who was born and raised in Santa Cruz, he has a strong connection to this community and a deep understanding of its challenges. His support from all members of the current Santa Cruz City Council highlights his capability to collaborate effectively and achieve results within this community. He has a demonstrated history of developing initiatives that focus on children, our neighborhoods, businesses, and the local economy. Additionally, he possesses the greatest experience in local government.

It's challenging to find instances of effective politicians in the current political environment. Nevertheless, when questioned, Ryan stands out as a straightforward example.

On June 2, I will be casting my vote for Ryan as the mayor of Santa Cruz and I urge everyone to do the same.

— Mike Polhamus, Santa Cruz

Wait to vote for governor until the final polls are released

The top two open primary for governor includes 61 candidates: 24 Democrats, 12 Republicans, 23 with no party preference, 1 Peace and Freedom, and 1 Libertarian. At present, the leading candidates are three Democrats and two Republicans. Unforeseen circumstances involving allegations of Eric Swalwell's misconduct caused him to step down.

Now, Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, and Tom Steyer are rising as leading contenders, each facing their own controversies. Becerra is under fire for not adequately tackling problems of deception and fraud while serving as U.S. Secretary of Health from 2021 to 2025. Porter, being a woman, is often described as a harsh employer. Steyer has released an advertisement acknowledging the millions he earned from previous investments that supported ICE detention facilities.

Due to the complexity of the broad field, Indivisible is recommending that Democrats delay early voting and rally behind the top-polling candidate for governor. Inform three other Democrats. The cutoff for in-person voting or using a drop box at any polling place is 8 p.m. on Election Day, June 2. Additionally, mail-in ballots need to be postmarked by June 2 at the latest.

— Carolyn Livingston, Santa Cruz

Steyer as governor: He initiates steps to address problems

Nearly all gubernatorial candidates only express generic statements. However, Tom Steyer stands out by focusing on specific details. He has a clear understanding of the various challenges California faces and offers concrete solutions.

He provided funding for 17,000 affordable housing units. He helped establish Beneficial State Bank to support communities that had been neglected due to lack of investment. He aims to construct more than 1 million homes by utilizing simpler building methods and financial approaches, simplifying approval processes, and updating zoning regulations.

Tom advocates for a single-payer healthcare system that reduces expenses and enhances medical availability.

He intends to curb the monopolistic practices of utility companies, develop more affordable energy solutions through increased public bond funding, enhanced grid technology, and ensure data centers fully cover their electricity costs.

For more than 15 years, Tom has been involved in climate activism. He fought against Big Oil's efforts to block cap and trade initiatives and provided $29.6 million for Prop. 39, which supports clean energy and infrastructure while generating high-paying jobs.

Support Tom Steyer, a candidate who pays attention and strives to address the issues that matter to us.

— Karen Nelson, San Jose

Candidate Núñez's involvement in community activities is 'outstanding'

I'm genuinely pleased that Tony Nuñez is running for county supervisor in the 4th District. His history of community involvement is impressive, along with his strong intergenerational connections and ability to foster a vibrant neighborhood.

I recall a member of the Scotts Valley City Council resigning and stating that you can't hold a public office without accumulating "nicks." ... You're bound to have dissatisfied residents who end up completely opposing your stance on various issues.

I would like to acknowledge, based on my limited understanding, that Felipé Hernandez supported the Last Plastic Straw initiative in the country — for the benefit of the sea creatures in our bay — and has also been a prominent advocate for local zoning laws that are crucial to the community's structure.

— Corrina McFarlane, Santa Cruz

RTC has eliminated the possibility of future passenger rail travel.

It was strange to read an op-ed in the May 14th Sentinel advocating for investment in our future, placed next to an article discussing the RTC recklessly ruining any possibility of rail travel.

All that lost opportunity and wasted time. …

— Pureheart Steinbruner, Aptos

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