Westly’s previous successes prove his dedication, ability

In California’s upcoming gubernatorial election, the
Democratic nominee will spar with the current governor in November,
and the repercussions are sure to influence 2008’s
presidential race. With such high stakes, many are still confused
about the important choice they have to make June 6. We would like
to point out why Steve Westly is the best choice for California and
the Democrats’ only chance to take down Gov. Arnold
Schwarzenegger.

California needs a governor with experience and proven success.
Westly has always worked to protect the environment and quality
public education. He worked in the Department of Energy during the
Carter administration, focusing on solar energy. Westly taught at
the Stanford Business School, and knows what it takes to inspire
students, motivate teachers, and restore the education system. He
plans to make community colleges free to students who attain their
degrees, lower textbook prices, and invest in teachers.

As an early eBay executive, Westly brings technological
innovation and sharp business acumen to the public sector. As
controller, Westly went after tax cheats, implementing programs
that brought in over $4 billion without raising taxes. As governor,
he will continue to address old problems with new solutions.

Our education system lags behind much of the nation, our
environment is threatened, and our budget is constantly out of
balance. Too many politicians would rather take shots at the other
side than get something done, but Westly understands that we must
end the gridlock that prevents us from seriously addressing
California’s long-term challenges.

Phil Angelides is a perfect example of what is wrong with
California’s government. He screams from the left but fails
to offer a positive vision of how we can move forward together. In
2004, when prominent statewide Democrats, including his campaign
co-chairs, Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer, stood behind
Schwarzenegger’s bond-proposals, only Angelides and state
Sen. Tom McClintock refused to go along.

While Angelides was honing his “anti-Arnold”
persona, Westly was working across party lines. Westly puts smart
policy over blind partisanship.

A May 28 Los Angeles Times poll puts Westly 10 points ahead of
Schwarzenegger while Angelides struggles within the margin of
error. Whoever goes on to the general election certainly has his
work cut out for him. Californians deserve a real debate about
ideas and policy, about our future, and about how we can get there.
Westly has demonstrated that he is up to the challenge.

O’Yang and Sears are student interns for
Westly’s campaign.