The Tribune – Letter to the Editor, Published 09/01/2010

I'm often asked what the State Assembly does or why the Legislature matters. In fact, our lives are affected every day by decisions made in Sacramento. The "borrowing" of dollars from our governments, the inability to fashion a budget that reflects the values of our state and the bureaucratic burdens that impact the ability of businesses and schools to thrive all have grave consequences.

The 33rd Assembly District deserves to have a moderate voice within the majority party to push for common-sense governance. In the economically robust early years of the 21st century, the California Legislature failed to exercise restraint in its spending. Instead, increased revenues led to increased expenditures with no planning for a rainy day and no paying down of debt. California must never make this same mistake. Two-year budgeting, zero-based budget building, accountability and oversight of public expenditures and making tough decisions - all of these are required from within the majority party where my vote and my leadership will make a difference.

Our country and its governance is a partnership. Citizen participation is essential as both voters and as candidates for office. I believe in working from within our democratic system; I hope you agree. – Hilda Zacarías