Our politicians determine where and how our tax dollars, our money, is to be utilized. They are civil servants who should be accountable for their actions but it seems impossible to find accurate summaries of their work since being elected.
How can I evaluate the records of the candidates who are wishing to serve my community at the federal and state level? I would like to support a candidate who has shown through his/her voting record that he/she supports affordable housing and groceries, community safety, affordable medical coverage, and high-quality education for our children.
The ads and social media tell me one thing, but I am afraid that large amounts of money are being spent to get my vote. How do I make the right choice? How can I find
an objective summary of what they voted for, what they supported, how often they were present to vote?
I discovered a website called YourRepRecord.org. This is a record of voting of each of our representatives. We can make our choice not based on ads or social media, but on the actions of the candidate themselves.
Marilyn Klingler, Mesa
Arizona should put solar over canals
Water is the most important issue facing Arizona. Past assurances have been false; negotiations for Colorado River water have resulted in reduced supply. It is urgent that the state address and act on the obvious solution. This solution is to cover the canals with solar panels.
Yes, do this for hundreds of miles. It is being tested in California and a small scale test is ongoing in Arizona. The actual results and the modeling results to date match: a 70% reduction in water loss; less algae buildup; and electricity generation. No one's land encroached, no environmental negatives.
Yes, it costs money. Infrastructure does. But there is a definite positive ROI here for the state, the counties, and for individuals. Stop wringing your hands. Do the research, and get moving. It's 110 out there and time is running out!
Alan Cole, Scottsdale
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Judge politicians by their records | Letters
