Your Voice Counts
Welcome to "Your Voice Counts" – the Boxer Updates feedback page. Here you can read what Californians are saying in response to my recent messages on issues facing Congress and the nation. If you would like to join the conversation, please click here. To browse past Boxer Updates, please click here.
Armenian Genocide
Californians respond to my message on Remembering the Armenian Genocide:Thank you for your support for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide. I am a proud first generation American whose mother, at the age of 7, saw her father and brother shot and fled with her mother and sisters. It was difficult for me to listen as she related all they went through. She proudly became a citizen of the United States and always told us to be good Americans but to also be proud of our heritage. Thank you,
Diane, Fresno
Thank you for acknowledging this day for Armenians. And thank you for not fearing to use the term "genocide". We have no other word in English that comes as close to describing the horror perpetrated against the Armenian people; the innocent women, children, and elderly who were sent to their deaths. It was a genocide. And we must call it what it is. Thank you. I am not Armenian; I am an American. And I feel that we must as American's, rise to acknowledge the crimes of the past and insure that they are never repeated. Again I say, Thank you.
Melissa, Riverside
My family and I thank you for being on the right side of history and honoring the victims of the Armenian Genocide. I'm hopeful that in time, the U.S. will stand on the right side of history by fully acknowledging the Armenian Genocide.
Julie, Duarte
I wanted to take the time to thank you for your help and kind thoughts as to the Armenian Genocide. Please continue to push the House to pass this resolution to finally have America recognize this despite threats on relationships from Turkey.
Simon, Costa Mesa
I would like to thank you for standing up today for Armenians everywhere in recognizing the Armenian Genocide. I am a descendant of Genocide survivors. Both of my grandparents lost family members either shot, hung, or starved in front of their very eyes. Thank you for reminding the world that the United States has yet to take the bold step, and do what is right, by recognizing this first genocide of the Twentieth Century.
Terrea, Walnut
As an Armenian-American, I am so thankful to you for supporting the official recognition of Armenian Genocide by U.S. Administration. It is so sad to see our past and present Presidents have been taken hostage by Turkish government because of Turkey's strategical and geographical "importance". We Armenians hope that someday America will have a President who will put the humanity before the politics and stand up for Armenian cause. I wish you and your family long,happy and successful life.
Vram, San Pedro
Thank you for acknowledging the Armenian Genocide by its rightful name---a genocide. I lost all of my relatives but 2 in that genocide, and they didn't all just disappear one day. Nor were these simple village people soldiers. Thank you for keeping this issue in the limelight. Let's keep the pressure on so that perhaps justice may someday prevail.
Pamela, San Anselmo
Thank you so much for your articulate and heartfelt plea to the administration on behalf of the Armenian community, asking for true recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the Ottoman Empire. Sadly, year after year our disappointment and frustration continues as truth and justice is overshadowed by political and strategic power and our President cannot dare speak the true words at the risk of offending the powerful Turks. After all, what do Armenians have to offer in the political power plays, when all that's left if a once great country are pieces torn away and turned into Turkey? What do they have to gain by siding with the Armenians and the side of righteousness? They have honor and integrity to gain...but this is not that important to some, and the US administration has shown that. Thank you again for believing in this cause. I love this country and cannot imagine living anywhere else. My parents moved here from Armenia when I was a child and proud to be a US citizen. Sadly this is the time of year when that pride diminishes a bit. Thank you again on behalf of my parents (who are in their 80's and lost many loved ones on the genocide) any my own family.
Annie, Arcadia
If you really wanted the Armenian Genocide to be recognized by the US nation, why would you only mention it on April 24th? Wouldn't you mention it constantly? Please don't pretend. If you really care, please make it a higher priority. Don't bring it up right as April 24 is coming up or when elections are starting up. We've heard the same promises for years but action still remains to be taken (unless you call this email once a year action). Glad we have a tool for open feedback. If this doesn't reach you, I know where the problems start from. Thanks!
Jonathan, Pasadena
I read your statement and I appreciate your official acknowledgement regarding this matter. As a race, human beings, and descendents from those that were massacred, your words will go a long way with your constituents. Well spoken Senator!
Sevan, Tujunga
Genetically Engineered Foods
Californians respond to my message on Labeling Genetically Engineered Foods:Thank you for representing the Californians such as myself who are avid about food freedom. We should have the right to choose to purchase GMOs just like many other countries around the world.
Marianne, Sacramento
As a physician, I'm a huge advocate of full disclosure--hopefully with passage of this bill the public will be empowered to make informed decisions!
Elizabeth, Orange
Thank you for taking a stand against GMO's, my family appreciates your dedication to our health.
Meredith, Riverside
Thank you Senator Boxer for sponsoring this bill to require labeling of genetically modified foods for consumers. We really need this bill to pass.
Carol, Laguna Beach
Thank you Senator Boxer for leading and trailblazing the way for Americans to know where their food comes from, how it is processed and to promote transparency in keeping our food clean and edible! This is a milestone. Thank you on behalf of the consumer.
Cissy, Whittier
I support your effort to demand full disclosure of GMO foods. As a father of four it is vital that I be aware of what I am feeding my children. Also, I have heard that Monsanto has pushed for and received some type of immunity from law suits related to their genetically modified products and the ill effects that they could bring about. Is that true? How is this even possible?
Ben, Glendale
I am thrilled to hear that you have introduced the Genetically Engineered food right to know legislation. I am sitting here with a big smile on my face and a thumbs-up to you. Families should know what they are buying, eating and feeding their children.
Gloria, Chico
I am a longtime supporter of your office, but I must say I am very disappointed with your sponsorship of the bill requiring the labeling of genetically engineered foods. Historically, mandatory labeling of foods in the U.S. has been reserved for those situations in which a clear, specific health risks exists (e.g., food allergens). In cases where the consumer wishes to base their choice on other criteria (e.g., organic or kosher), the labeling standards and certification system are established on a voluntary basis. The genetic engineering of food crops does not in and of itself create any specific health risk, and therefore the labeling of GE foods should fall into the latter, voluntary category. In instances where specific risks exist (e.g., introduction of genes that result in an allergic reaction), then labeling is entirely appropriate, but otherwise no labeling should be mandated. You and I agree on many, many other areas of policy, but this is one area where we clearly diverge.
Louis, San Carlos
I am very concerned about the foods I feed my family, it is difficult in today's world to be sure if you are making the right choices or not. Experts don't agree and it is confusing for the rest of us to sort out what is best. My daughter has recently developed a sensitivity to gluten, so we are always looking for gluten free choices. It seems the explosion of gluten sensitivity was caused by genetically altering wheat for better production. I don't wish to stop farmers from making a living, but I also don't want my children and grandchildren to get sick from these new types of foods. I want a choice, and if the food is not labeled I have no choice.
Debra, Covina
Thank you. I voted against California doing this just as 1 state. I did not see it working and perhaps causing food cost to soar as other states would not be allowed to sell here. We do not grow corn here. What would the price of an ear of corn be? So, I see it to be more productive to get it into the states as a whole. Thank you.
Wendy, Los Angeles
I was very involved in the Yes on 37 campaign and was so very discouraged by all of the flat out lies that came from the corporate food industry. So many of us worked so hard to get it passed - oh, well, the fight will continue! Thank you!!!
Sue, Santa Barbara
As a consumer that is very concerned about the food I am feeding myself and my family and I feel very strongly that I have a right to know if there are GMOs in the product. I hope this will expand to restaurants as well.
Kim, Simi Valley
You're sponsoring a bill to lable GEF's but what we USA consumers need is for GEF's to be banned legislatively from being grown or sold in this country. AS HAS BEEN DONE IN the European Union. Labeling is not a solution; it is a bandaid. Please form a phalanx of power to protect us from the blind eye deaf ears regarding our safety vav this issue.
Kate, Mountain View
I want to thank you standing up against Big Ag and their lobby and supporting the GMO Labeling legislation. We citizens (the human ones, not necessarily the corporate ones) have a right and even an obligation to know and understand what is in the food we feed our families. I am repeatedly shocked, disheartened, and disgusted at the lengths our big corporate "citizens" will go to ensure their own well-being at the expense of all the people and the very system that fostered their existence. Thank you again, and stay strong!
Erika, Vineburg
With all due respect, we would like for the government to stop regulating and legislating our lives in every possible way they can. We are perfectly able to go shopping for non-GMO foods on our own. We simply don't buy products that are not labeled "non-GMO".
George and Terry, Rolling Hills Estates
Thank you!! for introducing legislation requiring gmo foods to be labeled. Ideally they should be banned. But since political will won't act on the precautionary principle, labeling is the next best option. Glad to know it has bipartisan support. Please move it through quickly to passage before Monsanto lobbies everyone into voting against it.
Sara, Arcata
We deserve complete, total, 100% transparency in food labeling laws. All food manufacturers should be legally required to label ALL INGREDIENTS on ALL FOODS. Antibiotics, insecticides, herbicides, toxic chemicals have NO place in our food, and we have the right to good, safe food; something we aren't legally allowed, right now, due to the laws that the large agricultural companies have gotten passed without the consent or knowledge of America's citizens. If it is in the food, the law should mandate that it be listed in the ingredients. Everything! Period! We have the right to know what we are eating!
Melissa, Walnut Creek
I want to personally thank you for helping putting the Right-To-Know act on the Senate Floor. It's my dream come true! I have been volunteering with the California Right to Know for the past 2 1/2 years. This bill is so important for the health of everyone. We certainly have a right to know what we are purchasing and feeding our families. I applaud you for being a part of this campaign.
Donna, North Hollywood
Thank you for your work on behalf of Americans' right to know about genetically-engineered foods. I wish you success in this effort.
Nora, Santa Monica
Thank you for introducing the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act legislation. I volunteered on the Yes on Prop 37 campaign and felt hopeless when it was defeated. I'm looking forward to supporting your legislation and I'm very proud that you are one of the U.S. Senators representing the people, not the corporations.
Jennifer, Irvine
I am so thrilled that someone representing me, is on my side. Thank you for caring.
Karen, Sacramento
Thank you Senator Boxer for co-sponsoring the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act. I appreciate your support for clearly labeling genetically modified foods so that consumers can make informed choices about what they eat.
Paul, San Diego
I am so happy to hear that you have sponsored the Right To Know Bill! I was shocked and devastated when the forces behind GMO agriculture were able to overcome the momentum we had built for Prop 37 so I am thrilled to see California take the lead in Nationwide Labelling Reform. These companies have to label the products they sell everywhere else in the world; Why not here? Thank You
Vincent, Tracy
Thank you VERY MUCH for co-sponsoring the bill to label GMO foods. It didn't pass in California because of money from big agra. Hopefully it will become the law of the land.
Steve, Milpitas
Thank you for introducing the bill to label GMO-containing foods! I would like to see even more improved labeling, such as not allowing catch-all terms like "natural flavors." What does that mean?
Kathy, Bishop
I want to strongly express that I am against this law as it will be very difficult to differentiate how to apply the law. It is not realistic to think that this law will help decide about health issues with food.
Robert, Berkeley
Thank you for letting me know about your "right to know" bill that you are advocating. It is of the utmost importance that each of us choose our food based on full disclosure. Let the mothers of our country decide what they wish to feed their children, based on this disclosure. Thank you for your hard work and determination to allow us to do this in the future. I pray your bill will pass!
Diane, Paso Robles
Thank you for being apart of new legislation to increase consumer knowledge on genetically modified food labeling. I feel very strongly about this issue as a nurse, and Masters in Nutrition & Functional Medicine student. This is the right step in helping to being healthcare costs down by decreasing the number of people suffering from chronic illness.
Shanna, San Diego
Thank you for working on the issue of GE food labeling. I can only hope that any legislation passed by the Senate and allowed by House obstructionists to make it to the President's desk contains strong clear mandates that lawyers for corporations such as Monsanto will not be able to evade.
Christine, Los Angeles
As a businesswoman, wife and mother, I am so very grateful that you have brought this critical health issue to the forefront. Please let me know what I can do to help? I really feel that we consumers have the right to know. I am not anti-science in any way but I am very anti-GMO and I don't want corporations patenting foods and the suing farmers for stealing their seed when the pollen blows into neighboring fields. There is so much that is wrong for our health, our planet and our economy with introducing virtually untested Genetically Modified Organisms.
Leslie, Cotati
I was so pleased to get your email today and learn that you are introducing the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act. Thank you for your leadership on this very important issue. I fully support you in this effort. Good luck as you meet resistance. If this bill is passed, it will be worth the effort, I'm sure.
Karla, Orick
Thank you for your work to require labeling of genetically modified or engineered foods at the national level. This is what is needed.
Melissa, Oakland
I am so pleased to see that you support the fact that we as consumers deserve to know what we are eating and am very happy you are initiating the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act. I for one choose to not purchase any foods that are genetically modified, which can be very difficult. I strive very hard to feed my family foods made from scratch along with freshly grown fruits and vegetables and it is very important to me to not eat GMO foods. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Laura, Napa
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SPONSORING THIS BILL!!!!! I have Crohn's and Colitis, and GMO's really do a job on my gastrointestinal system, kicking my immune system into high gear! I want to remind you that the GMO genes are carried in the pollen by wind, insects, and birds, for miles (average 50 miles, more in the high winds of Hawai'i, where Monsanto has turned ALL CORN grown in the state into GMO'd corn due to these factors. I know, one step at a time..., but at some point, Monsanto should be held responsible for ruining the crops of others with their insecticide-making genes.
Nancy, Eureka
My immune system started to be impacted when genetically modified foods began to be introduced. Who would have thought eating "healthy" would be a bad thing! My allergies have increased, too; but, if I eat organic heirloom, I can still enjoy most produce! Between that and the impact on the butterfly (and I think the bee) population, I think there is common sense evidence that GMO's are to be avoided. The trick is how to avoid without labeling.
Connie, Sierra Madre
Sorry but I totally disagree with your support for this foolish proposed bill. It's a fact that passage of this bill will raise the food costs for all of us here in America and thru the world and hurt the poorest the most. It accomplishes what? The FDA has established there's no difference between GE and Non GE foods-so why put the extra burden on food makers and growers to go thru this costly extra label nonsense. This will also hurt growers from supplying the needed food for we billions and again the food poor nations being hurt the most.
Karl, Glendora
I have always so appreciated having you for my Senator, and you have now come through on an issue of unique and incredible importance. Most people, I guess, do not understand the consequences of this, nor the fact that, really, there is no going back. This is hard to believe; but we have you there fighting for sanity in this crazed, greed ridden world.
Jan, Fairfax
THANK YOU for taking a stand and sponsoring this incredibly important bill. Once it is passed, I am sure the health of countless U.S. citizens will start to improve.
Amy, Portola Valley
It is extremely important to myself and my family that we have the right to make the decision not to eat GMO foods and right know there is no way to know what we are consuming.
Diane, Redondo Beach
Information is all that we need to make honest choices. Thank you for representing us, the consumer!
Ann, Chula Vista
I am proud of you for standing up for your people in relation to this very important topic. Nice work!
Tullin, Truckee
I feel strongly that it is our right to know what we are eating. And, with that information, we will be able to make healthier dietary choices for ourselves.
Linda, La Mesa
Thank you for sponsoring this legislation. As consumers we should know what we are eating and have the choice to choose what kinds of foods we do eat.
Joyce, Willits
Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial
Californians respond to my message on Honoring Military Aviators:Thank you so much for moving on this most important proposal! My family and I are very moved by your actions and pray this passes as it should. My father was stationed at March AFB for more than 20 years. When I was a child we spent a lot of time at this base. My younger brother was born at the hospital on the base. I love my country but I loved my father more who was engaged in 3 wars, WWII, Korea and Vietnam. My father loved the Air Force and his country which he demonstrated in his day to day work in the US Air Force. He was a grand man and father! Unfortunately he died on May 26, 2012. He would have loved this idea! Please move forward for my dad and my family as we believe in your plan! My father has an inscribed brick which we purchased at the memorial site. My family along with many other families thank you for your efforts.
Alexis, Riverside
I was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for actions on Feburary 14, 1969 South of Da Nang, Republic of South Vietnam. Your work with/for Veterans is appreciated by me and most Veterans that I know. I am a founding member of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society and would like to thank you for your proposal concerning March Field.
Robert, Fresno
Thank you for your efforts for the Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial. Although I am not a veteran, I have good friends and relatives who served in the Air Force and other branches. Any honor to our military is much appreciated.
Ned, Corona
As a Vietnam Veteran and holder of the Distinguished Flying Cross I applaud you effort. No matter what people think of the Vietnam War many brave pilots served their country with distinction and honor and through great sacrifice fulfilled their duty as pilots. I am glad their service and heroism is being recognized. Sincerely
Donald, Temecula
Thank you very much for doing this special thing for our veterans.
Gary, Signal Hill
Earth Day
Californians respond to my message on Earth Day 2013:Thanks for your excellent work on carbon reduction. If our consumption of fossil fuels continues without change, the day will come when not only will the weather be horrible, but also there will be no more fossil fuels to dig up. In order to prevent both the environmental damage, and the catastrophic consequences of inaction, we must move away from fossil fuels even though the alternative is not yet cheaper than fossil fuels.
Ted, Mountain View
I just read your Earth Day message and want to thank you for working towards helping to preserve the world we're living in for habitation by humans and other animals. I know you are on the side of good. However, I'd like to see the framework changed to meet that criteria. As long as the oil companies and other large corporations aren't paying their fair share in taxes, as long as their CEOs and other high-level executives are allowed to make hundreds of times more than their workers and give themselves giant bonuses, a fine for exceeding pollution emission rates is a slap on the wrist rather than a true deterrent. As long as there is a revolving door between large corporations and the EPA and other regulating organizations, the work of keeping businesses from polluting out air, water, wildlife habitat and family farms will be hampered in a dangerous way. I hope these conditions can be changed along with the separation of State and Big Business in other areas, such as banking and food production. The purpose of government is to make things run well between ALL the people.
Elizabeth, Potter Valley
We don't need price on pollution. We need cleaner air in Southern California, instead.
Igor, Walnut
I'd like to thank you once again for being a strong advocate for the environment. It only makes sense, since we live in the country's most beautiful state, that we try our best to try and conserve what is left of our natural beauty. I remember the days of travelling with my family from Northern California to Southern California to visit relatives, only to be repulsed by the bowl of haze that existed over Los Angeles at that time. Now that horrible cloud is mostly gone, thanks to the efforts of many people, including members of our legislature. I hope that more people will become involved with trying to get climate under control so that we can enjoy many more Earth Days in the future.
Megaen, Newcastle
The following passage from your Earth Day email was excellent: "To strike at the roots of carbon pollution, Senator Sanders and I have introduced legislation that puts a price on carbon pollution, protects consumers with a rebate, and reinvests funds to promote renewable energy. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Senate to address climate change and its dangerous impacts." A revenue neutral price on carbon is what we need to encourage American ingenuity to fight global warming. The rebate check is a nice touch, since it reminds people that the carbon tax really is revenue neutral.
Jonathan, Sunnyvale
CEMEX and Santa Clarita
Californians respond to my message on Protecting Santa Clarita from Pollution and Congestion:Thanks for taking care of the folks in Santa Clarita valley. Please keep up your good work on climate change so we can all be protected from the worst environmental degradation
Edward, Santa Monica
Senator Boxer, thank you for introducing the Soledad Canyon Settlement Act. I am well aware that you are my only representative in Congress who has been active in trying to get the Cemex mine issue resolved. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Marie, Newhall
Thank you for every effort to preserve Americana. While some compromise with "dirty energy" is inevitable, if we can avoid the most precious and valuable land/landscapes, as well as preserve the health and welfare of American citizens (e.g. no fracking esp near any watershed), that is the best scenario.
Diana, Redding
Respectfully, the mining legislation is a bad idea. I've lived in this valley for over twenty years, and I have never been concerned with the quality of the air. In fact, I am more concerned with losing industry and jobs on the area. If you shut down the mining, jobs and local revenue will be lost. I understand the concern for the environment, but at some point, we have to be as concerned with the economy of this State. I was born in this state and my livelihood keeps me here, but there is almost nothing else that would keep me here. It's a great and beautiful state, but what it is turning into is uglier every year. Thank you for your concern.
Guy, Santa Clarita
I applaud your recent legislation to protect the people of Santa Clarita from pollution and traffic congestion by requiring the Bureau of Land Management and canceling the current mining contracts in Soledad Canyon and prohibit future mining at this site. We need more Congressional representatives like you who are willing to protect the citizens and the environment by reducing polution and eliminating harmful environmental business practices. Thank YOU!!!
Susan, San Carlos
I live in Santa Clarita very close to the CEMEX mine off of Soledad Canyon Rd. I have no connection to the company or any it is affiliated with. The Santa Clarita Valley has many problems, and traffic, but this mine has nothing to do with it. This is a pet issue of the City Council and uppity residents that ignore our real problems. We have traffic problems because the City insists on builing houses instead of cross town roads. The hot, dry and windy conditions of the area means there is always dust in the air here. Our city, State and country have much more pressing issues than this small mine that doesn't affect air polution or traffic to any measurable degree. I would prefer that you spend more energy on real issues like immigration reform than small local issues like this. Thank you for your time,
Jeff, Canyon Country
Military Sexual Assault
Californians respond to my message on Ensuring Justice for Victims of Military Sexual Assault:Thank you for following up on the sexual violence going on in the military. It is about time the command leadership and personnel are held accountable for their illegal and immoral behavior. Please continue your efforts.
Lily, Rough And Ready
I applaud U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel's efforts to address the serious issue of sexual assault in the military. As a retired member of the Army Reserves, I know that the problem has existed unchecked for such a long time. I am also a Registered Nurse so I see first hand the devastating effects on victims of this violent crime. I support all efforts to STOP this type of crime.
Cheryl, Oakland
I am a former military member. I have to say this is something that has taken way too long to happen. There are way too many of us servicewomen who have suffered unduly thanks to not being believed or being told that the assault was somehow our fault or brought upon with the clothes that we were wearing or the places we were at. Many of us were attacked by our own fellow service members. And then add insult to injury when we are discharged from the military and apply for benefits they are denied by the VA due to be denied by the military or ignored by or plain out ignored by the higher ranking officers and supervisors of the military.
Kirsten, Rancho Cordova
Thank you so much for your work in this matter. It gives me hope, changing the world one little bit at a time. Whether we see our vision of a better world in our lifetimes is beside the point- we most likely will not. But every small step gets us going that direction.
Bruce, Redway
Thank you, Senator Boxer, for taking a strong stand on this important issue. Thank you too for keeping us informed of your good work on this, and many other issues that are vitally important to helping us move closer to being a society that is safe and just for all.
Melody, Sacramento
Our military men and women have enough to be concerned about without having to deal with sexual predators as co-workers. Those who have been assaulted deserve their day in court and the support of their commanding officers in seeking justice.
Carol, Carpinteria
Thank you for your recent email update on your work with U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel in pursuing justice for victims of military sexual assault. I support your efforts to control this travesty, and I appreciate all your efforts on behalf of Californians and all the citizens of the U.S. regardless of residency or occupation.
Laneta, Riverside
Thanks for championing the rights of service members who have been assaulted, sexually or not, by the people with whom they served. I do believe that this is much more common in the testosterone-filled environment of the military than anyone knows. I've counseled women who were devastated by this kind of activity and had no place to express their legitimate outrage in a meaningful way without being blamed or ridiculed. We are better than this. America is better than this.
Suzanne, San Jose
Thank you for keeping Defense Secretary Hagel on track with improvement of sexual assaults protection and prosecutions in our military. I'm sure he will get plenty of push back from the military used to having their own way. I'm also sure he is in favor of these changes. I urge you to support him in this endeavor and push him if he slows down.
James, Carlsbad
You said that Sec.Hegel has begun the long process of ending sexual violence in the military. Why "long"? It can be stopped NOW. Where there is a will, there is a way. Let us get the job done!
Arnold, Arcadia
Thank you for your efforts to assist our sisters in the military. Their contributions to our national security is no less important than any other individual (male or female) within the Military. Based on the stories I've read and seen, it is an abomination how the women in the service are treated as to this reprehensible conduct.
Jack, Moreno Valley
Thank you for pursuing this issue as a priority of yours-I have grandchildren, like most of the boomers, in the service to our country and why do they need to have fears of this happening to them. The History channel, i believe recently ran this topic re assaults of females in the AIR FORCE. So it is more difficult to get into the AIR FORCE and then they terrorize and victimize the top cream of the crop young men and women, what an evil way to "kill" the bodies and spirits of our youth. thanks again for your pursuit.
Sandra, Irvine
Thank you for your efforts to engage Secretary of Defense Hagel on this issue. We completely agree that base commanders or any other officer in the chain of command should not be able to overturn convictions for this kind of illegal and destructive behavior. Neither should they be able to stop any investigations into allegations made that such behavior has taken place.
Richard and Chihoko, Oakland
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Californians respond to my message on Stopping Sexual Assault in the Military from 03/13/2013:
Thank you for standing up for the victims of sexual assault in the military. While a certain amount of autonomy for the commanders in the military court system is critical to their mission, without appropriate checks and balances, the system is ineffective and sometimes dangerous. As the leader of a women's center in the CSU, a victimology faculty member, and a veteran, I applaud you.
Jenny, Fresno
THANK YOU for your testimony before the Senate Committee responsible for overseeing this issue. We completely agree that military commanders must NOT be allowed to overturn convictions of perpetrators. Please continue to work actively with the Committee to ensure that this legislation passes quickly. Please continue to keep us informed of your efforts to do this.
Richard and Chihoko, Oakland
Your words resonated in my heart and I pray these hearings will bring to fruition all that you asked for, especially to stop the violence now. Let’s put an end to all the cover ups regarding sexual violence. Our society needs it.
Mary, Redondo Beach
Thank you for your incredible efforts on behalf of all your California constituents and military personnel in general.
Charles, Nevada City
Thank you Senator Boxer for all your hard work on behalf of victimized men and women in the military. It is so upsetting to hear their stories and learn how they were forced to endure censure and humiliation when they reported these attacks to their superiors. These brave people deserve justice.
Karen, Livermore
Thank you for standing up and speaking out about the sexual assault that is going on in the military. May this be the start of that changing.
Jennifer, Burbank
Thank you, Senator Boxer, for your passionate defense of our military members' right to be safe, protected against sexual violence, and to have rigorous prosecution against offenders.
Holly, Arcata
Thank you for speaking out about violence and sexual assaults in the military. You said it perfectly, this is not something to be handled "internally". It takes someone like you to bring this to the attention of others who only want to sweep it under the rug. Perhaps you'll break down the boys club very soon.
Jane, West Hollywood
Thank you for your support of real accountability for sexual predators in the military. The current prosecutorial paradigm must change. These cases should be adjudicated by non-command attorneys with law experience specific to this issue. Until the self serving, non-attorney chain of command staff are removed from the decision process, these cases will not be prosecuted.
Robert, Los Angeles
Very sad though we have to have a law to protect anyone from harm.
Margaret, San Diego
Thank you for demanding equal justice for all in the military. The case of the General overturning the conviction and punishment of the AF Captain convicted of the assualt is an abomination. And, it goes beyond the crime of sexual assualt for such a reversal of a conviction could occur for any crime in which the higher officer had a particular interest. Where, we should ask, is the justice in this type of system? Thanks for listening.
Pierre, Sacramento
I am glad that finally something is and hopefully will be done about this matter of the greatest importance. Thank you for your input.
Melvin, Sacramento
This has been swept under the rug for far toooooo long.
Betty, Moreno Valley
Thank you for your incredible efforts on behalf of all your California constituents and military personnel in general. I admire and respect your commitment to your role as our Senator.
Charles, Nevada City
Thank you for your strong stance on this shameful subject of friendly forces committing sexual assault crimes against our own men and women in the military. One of the local Vet Center Team Leaders informed me that more men than women are raped while serving in the military. No one serving our country should be a victim of such horrible assaults. I am a proud U.S. Marine Vietnam War (Danang 1969) veteran and life member of the V.F.W., D.A.V., and V.V.A.. Keep up the great advocacy work.
Mario, Chula Vista
Californians respond to my message on Keeping Sex Offenders Out of Our Military (11/30/2012):
Thank God! Now if we can get proper reporting procedures in place so the women in our military are not punished for telling on their attacker by their commanding officers. I am a female retired from the military and this sort of thing goes on all the time. Thank you.
Morgan, Lemoore
Again thank you for initiating the amendment that will permanently ban anyone convicted of felony sexual assault from joining our military. To think this has not already been the case, is yet another reminder that we have very little "common sense". I truly appreciate all you have done and are doing on our behalf.
Julia, El Cerrito
I'm so happy to know you're out there defending and supporting those that are defending and supporting all of us! There is no place in our military (or anywhere) that should think it ok to include those that have committed such heinous acts. The numbers listed on your website of 2011's such incidents are saddening beyond belief. Thank you so much for your tireless work and commitment to our country.
Barbara, San Antonio
I wanted to express my continued gratitude to you for making every effort to introduce legislation that serves all people. I especially wanted to thank you for your amendment permanently banning any potential military service member who is a sexual assault felon. This is a long overdue and necessary step in protecting our service members, men and women. Thank you again for all your hard work.
Angela, Oakland
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Nursing Shortage
Californians respond to my message on Supporting Nurses and Patients:We are so fortunate in California!! I am 81 years of age and have been hospitalized frequently for COPD and pneumonia. The care I have received has been outstanding and TOTALLY CARING -- NOT JUST A JOB-- and it makes ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD!!
Joan, San Diego
Thank you, Barbara, for supporting nurses. They are maligned and criticized, but they are the backbone of the healthcare system. They are also its compassionate center. My best friend, a nurse, walked me through cancer treatment. Without her and her cohorts, I would have been lost. These are not "greedy women," as the GOP would paint them. They are wonderful healers who very often care more about patients than doctors do. That was my experience.
Suzanne, San Jose
As a retired Male RN I applaud the subject of your bill and decry that it deserves very prompt attention and approval by all of Congress, especially those fitting into the Seniors category. For decades, we in the profession have seen the gap in available staffing on the rise, with little to relieve it. Let's hope your bill helps alleviate this dilemma.
Bob, Turlock
Last month I spent four days in Kaiser Oakland Hospital. In those four days my bed was never changed, my gown was never changed, I was not given a meal on four occasions and my medications were always late. I know Kaiser is a "cost effective" HMO, but the nurses are required not only to be nurses, but to do the jobs of the dietary department and the non-existent nursing assistants. This shortage must be addressed. Being hospitalized is a scary experience when the staffing is so short.
Margaret, Berkeley
I support your legislation to improve patient care and address the nationwide shortage of nurses. It is critical we tackle this problem now before the baby boomers reach "old age."
Pamela, Auburn
The nursing shortage has been more than 35 years in the making. I starting nursing courses before my daughter was born, 36 years ago. I took 2 years of pre-med classes, then was told I had to be put on a waiting list! There was a bottleneck even then, to prevent more people from getting into the nursing profession. I believe it was an 'enforced' shortage, since so many of us were put on hold. From what I can tell, that 'shortage' continues to be in place. During that long waiting period, I decided to go into teaching. I just retired after 29 years. Seeing my friends & relatives in the hospital, it is quite evident there are never enough nurses on any given shift. This is the reason so many mistakes happen- tired & overworked, they are stressed to the max. I look forward to seeing this legislation pass.
Eileen, Clovis
Please know that I am in full support of your United States Senate introduced National Nursing Shortage Reform and Patient Advocacy Act. Well done, and thank you so very much!
Jennifer, La Canada Flintridge
My daughter is a nurse and badly overworked and underpaid. She loves the job and her patients but is not allowed to spend adequate time with each one. Nurses are constantly "on the clock" to "perform". Please create more opportunities for men and women to become nurses with POWER!!!
Elizabeth, Bakersfield
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Nuclear Safety
Californians respond to my message on Safety First at San Onofre:San Onofre's current operating license requires running at 100% power for 22 months. Edison wants the NRC to lower safety standards to 70% power for 5 months so they can run their defective steam generators. Please do everything in your power to stop this. Southern California Edison has repeatedly demonstrated they do not have the management skills to run a nuclear power plant.
Donna, San Clemente
Living in San Diego so close to this power plant, it gives me peace of mind to know that you are overseeing the most comprehensive investigation possible before this power plant is restarted. I want to take this opportunity also to let you know that I feel so fortunate to have you as my Senator. I can always rely on you to have our best interests at heart in California.
Merrily, San Diego
I live in Laguna Niguel a few miles north of the nuclear reactor, and I appreciate that you oppose the utility company in its attempt to restart San Onofre and gamble with my life and those of my neighbors.
Barbara, Thousand Oaks
The delay on restarting the plant has gone on long enough and I think SCE knows what its doing to restart and keep it operating safely. I think you are siding with the enviro freaks who want to shut this plant down when we need it most with hot summer months coming. Enough delays are enough!
Karl, Glendora
Thank you for sending your message to the NRC. I live within that 50 mile radius and have been very concerned about San Onofre reopening. It is frightening to think that strong lobbyists may force the plant to be put back online when there are still serious safety issues to be resolved.
Carol, Huntington Beach
Thank you, Senator Boxer, for standing up for the safety of the millions of people who live within the area affected by a possible San Onofre incident. I was one of the protestors when the decision was made to put this dangerous facility in a totally unsuitable and unsafe location. Most politicians (who do not live close enough to be threatened by this facility) verbally pat us on the head and say that things will be all right. I appreciate your speaking out.
Helene, Bonsall
I greatly appreciate your firm stance to the NRC and requiring no restarting of the reactors at San Onofre until safety can be assured. I am willing to reduce my electrical power use when required. I have a solar photovoltaic system on my roof that I feed into the grid and last year participated in the SDG&E reduction in usage program. I will gladly do so again.
Craig, San Diego
I am supportive of all initiatives that require health of the environment which means the whole of the web of life and human health prior to short term profits. We need more people with the vision to stand up for people and the planet first over the interest of corporations.
Brad, San Diego
So you've told us what you are doing to keep the plant in shut down which may or may not be fine. What are you doing to help replace the power that is not being generated? We pay such high prices for power and other utilities in southern California. We continue to pay for the costs of a power plant that does not operate. I do care and I have invested in solar power for my home, but a one sided approach to environmental concerns is wrong.
Raymond, San Diego
Thank you for your steadfast position on the reopening of the San Onofre nuclear power plant. Being old enough to have lived during the 3 Mile Island fiasco, I am no fan of nuclear power, period. In my opinion, we would be far better off investing in and developing renewable energy sources. At least for now, however, I am happy that you are refusing to allow another "rush job", as has happened many times in the past.
Tom, Calabasas
We live within 60miles of San Onofre and to know you are there fighting for the interests of the people is very comforting. Please continue to do so. Thank You!
Donald, Pomona
The San Onofre power plant should not be reopened, ever. As usual, the power companies and powers that be are only thinking about money, not the thousands of lives that could be lost if this nuclear power plant reopens at less than optimum operating capacity and a consequent disaster occurs. Hopefully enough people will speak out, no, shout out their concerns about the reopening of this facility.
L., Dana Point
We are part of the 8 million who live within 50 mi. of this plant. 24 miles to be exact. I applaud your efforts to make sure it is safe prior to reopening. there have been rumors for years of releases of radioactive water to the ocean from this plant - that should be checked too. The depleted but still radioactive rods that are being stored on the beach should be moved to a permanent repository prior to start up also. No plans for that. Nuclear is neither safe NOR CHEAP. We will have to guard and store rods from ALL the plants for a mere 10,000 years.
Kasey, Carlsbad
Please keep up the pressure. Don't let San Onofre open until it's safe.
Martin, Laguna Woods
Thank you Senator Boxer for demanding a full report on San Onofre including the opportunity for public participation. This is a very old facility with significant problems and suggestions of lax standards and possibly malfeasance. The public is rightfully anxious about the plant's safety and reliability. There is no room for miscalculation where nuclear safety is concerned..
Nora, La Jolla
Thank you for pursuing your current course of action concerning San Onofre Nuclear Powerplant. I think the concerns are warranted, and while there is evidence that nuclear energy can be operated safely, the risks outweigh the benefits. If we have to pay more for electricity, so be it; the half-life of nuclear fuel is far pricier if not contained.
Robert, San Diego
I very much appreciated your email about resisting the premature restarting of San Onofre. Their equipment failures show the what we've known for a while. This is an aging plant which has functioned beyond its intended time. Having seen what can happen in Japan, it is no longer conscionable to allow Con Ed to operate this facility. It is located in a tsunami zone, adjacent to a major earthquake fault, and lacks adequate security. The huge populations north and south are all at risk if the plant is restarted.
Matt, San Diego
I believe your letter to the NEC will just keep the cost of electricity to continue to increase and will have no actual effect on the plsnt running safley.
Robert, Laguna Hills
I agree with many of your public positions but I disagree completely with your stance on the restart of the San Onofre nuclear power plant. California needs low cost carbon emmission free electrical power. You are choosing high cost, high emmissions electrical power.
Ian, Corona Del Mar
This is a very serious subject with all of our friends and family. We do not think this old dinosaur should be used again ever. As usual the industry puts profits before safety. They always have done this. We don't want to have a Fukushima here. Nuclear is not the way of the future. The sooner we get over it the better. It's futile to continue with this nasty, dirty, unsafe, polluting-for-eternity way of boiling water. It's so backwards! We applaud your efforts in keeping watch over this very important situation. It really makes us want to move away from all Nuclear Power Plants!!!
Pamela, Encinitas
As a resident of South Orange County who lives approximately ten miles from the San Onofre nuclear complex, I want to say, "Thank you!" for doing the 100% correct and prudent thing in NOT supporting any weakening of regulations that would allow SCE to expedite the reactivation of their nuclear power plants at the expense of public safety. Enough information about the problem at San Onofre has leaked out (no pun intended!) to cause great concern for any citizens living in the beautiful and vital area of South Orange County who have been paying attention. That the cause of the prematurely deteriorating cooling system is still unknown mandates that caution must prevail over expediency.
John, Ladera Ranch
We are outraged at the possibility of any reactor at the San Onofre plant reopening, in view of the fact that it has been proven that it would unsafe to reopen even at 70% capacity with the tubes eroding as they have. We are in strong agreement with those who claim that the reopening of any portion of this plant would be a careless science experiment, which has not taken into consideration the potential loss of lives in this land of earthquakes. Afterall, the plant sits next to two faults, one with the probability of an 8.0 earthquake when it was designed to sustain a 7.0. Without question, there should be a license review. The safe operation of the plant has already been compromised. Safety modifications were rejected, and we have already witnessed the shortcuts that resulted in damage to hundreds of steam generator tubes that carry radioactive water. Do we really want to risk becoming the next Fukushima? Please, we implore those who are reviewing the reopening of the plant to look through the eyes of integrity rather than financial consideration.
Leah, Rancho Santa Fe
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Californians respond to my message on Investigating New Safety Concerns at San Onofre (2/7/2013):
Shut it down. It is not safe nor can it be made safe. Hindsight is always better than foresight, but we don't want to suffer the same conditions like Chernobyl or Fukushima. San Onofre has been idled too long. It only means that the engineers don't know how to make it safe to operate. Err on the side of caution and shut it permanently.
Rodney, San Diego
Thank you very much for expressing your concern about the San Onofre Nuclear power plant. I live in San Clemente and it scares me to know how the plant has been operated.
Ulla, San Clemente
Thank you for your continuing follow through with the nuclear power plant. I just had solar panels installed on my roof. Please continue those incentives. In SoCal why can't we gather more energy from our sun?
Mary, Laguna Hills
We see eye to eye on some important subjects. Such as the fact that if there is to be Nuclear Energy is must be truly clean and truly safe. Currently it is neither. Thank you for updating me with this extremely important issue.
Shannon, Bethel Island
I think we need to go even further and shut down nuclear power plants. Safety and nuclear power plants is an oxymoron.... Thank you for your continued support of this view.
Tanya, Huntington Beach
The vast number of residents of Southern CA do not want the San Onofre Power Plant reopened under any circumstances. The plant is old and has been poorly maintained -- it is simply a major disaster waiting to happen. We trust that you will use your common sense to make sure that the plant remains closed permanently.
Gary, Laguna Niguel
Please do not let your prejudice against Nuclear Energy interfere in getting San Onofre full back on line. I suspect your real intent is to shut all nuclear power facilities. That is a dreadful ambition and bad policy.
D., Aliso Viejo
Thank you Senator Boxer for your efforts to protect the safety of all who could suffer from a nuclear mishap.
Silka, San Diego
Thank you Senator for calling Prof Hirsch to the NRC hearing. He paints quite a different picture than Edison does. Is reopening San Onofre worth the risk for a fairly small amount of electricity? Imagine the economic destruction if something happened there. And we are not even factoring in seismic possibilities there. Edison and Mitsubishi have tried to pull a fast one here so they didn't need to undergo a full review. It is time for that now.
Anne, Laguna Beach
Our family is among the 8.7 million people who live within 50 miles of this power plant. In fact, we live in Oceanside, only 17 miles from there. We, along with our neighbors, are VERY concerned that San Onofre Nuclear Power plant NOT ever be reopened, until and unless we know it is TOTALLY SAFE. Otherwise is it like living with a nuclear time-bomb in our neighborhood, ready to go off. Furthermore, given the geologic, fault situation and propensity toward major earthquakes within 50 miles of this nuclear facility, My family questions the wisdom of ever reopening it again.
Sunny, Oceanside
Thank you for keeping an eye on the liars at SCE and Mitsubishi. Nuclear fission is the most expensive method of boiling water ever invented. It has the potential to be catastrophic. In California we have a lot of sunny days. My home is powered by solar panels. For the price of the idiotic Iraq war we could have placed solar panels on every, single roof in the United States of America. We the taxpayers are on the hook for all meltdowns and releases of radioactive material. The waste materials will remain radioactive for hundreds of thousands of years. Providing a target for terrorists for that long as well. Shut down all nukes.
James, Huntington Beach
I live within 10 miles of SONGS. Although they may have some problems, I believe that they are operating a safe and efficient power plant. Nuclear energy is vital to the future of our nation. To look for a boogeyman behind every slight problem makes no sense. We need to be energy independant. Safe, efficient nuclear energy allows us to be that. One cannot be for renewable energy and not be in favor of nuclear energy. Wind and solar will not provide enough energy to meet the challenge. Nuclear can be safe and efficient. Let the utility and the NRC handle the situation. It does not not need the Senator's involvment.
Harold, Dana Point
Thank you for your stance and communication regarding the need for closer scrutiny and regulation of replacement segments for the San Onofre nuclear energy facilities. I appreciate your effort and acuity in monitoring those activities.
Frieda, Pasadena
I am grateful to you for your continuing concern and oversight regarding the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant. I urge you to also follow-up on the seismic concerns associated with the Diablo Nuclear Power Plant also.
Sandy, Santa Cruz
The power plant at San Onofre has served us here in Southern California for many years. The amount of energy it is capable of producing is far beyond ANY current energy generation methods. The plant has never had a problem and now after finally realizing the high costs of building and maintaining the plant YOU and others want to destroy it...for what? Wind and solar are part of the future, but not realistic for powering cities yet. Before tearing the nuclear plant down or decommissioning the plant we here in Southern California want a replacement source of energy. Energy costs are the highest in the country and nothing but higher costs will come from ANY other type of generation plant. On behalf of me and my family I want to see San Onofre rebuilt, recommissioned and put back on-line to serve the reasonably- priced, safe, energy needs of much of Southern California.
Joseph, San Diego
The San Onofre Nuclear plant has never completely passed a safety check. Southern California Edison thinks close is ok. It is in a heavily populated area, next to Camp Pendleton, near or on earthquake faults and close to the ocean.
Joan, Dana Point
After receiving and reading your news flash regarding your request to the NRC to launch an immediate investigation, I am compelled to respond. If you were genuinely concerned about helping Californian's, rather than trying to delay or discontinue the nuclear energy generation at San Onofre, you would be helping to secure new nuclear power generators, including this site.
Jeff, Del Mar
I would love to see San Onofre Nuclear generators shut down completely. They are not safe, have never been safe, and will never be safe. It is built on a fault, ocean front where tsunamis can hit (their wall is inadequate as shown by Japan). The area is perfect to convert to solar, wind, and wave energy generation, all clean energies which nuclear is Not!
Pattie, San Clemente
There is always a line between safety and cost/time. Always. We could save lives on our highways by driving at 20 MPH and having cars that weighed 10 tons and had 50 airbags, but we don't. Your memo and action seems to insinuate that SCE/MHI didn't do all they could, especially when doing so would trigger regulatory review (cost, time). I'm not sure there's enough information here to make an informed judgement, and your publicity here does little to help that assessment. I'm all for safety, especially given the proximity of SONGS. But I also accept that there's some risk - there always is.
Bill, Laguna Niguel
I heard it on the Radio and was very pleased you are keeping So. Cal. Edisons feet to the fire! We are very concerned that we could have an Nuclear disaster at that plant. So. Cal. Edison modifications to the plant has put our safety at risk for profit. The Nuclear Regulation Commision should investigate immediatly and provide the people in the vicinity with all information . Our health and safety and financial risk in our homes is at stake. Members of the Nuclear Commision should not give Edison any benifet of any doubt , they choose the modifications in order to avoid inspections and save money for profit. They should have to pay for their actions.
Bridget, Laguna Niguel
Thank you for your message and for looking into the matter going on down here in our area. Not only do we not have the power that the plant is supposed to be generating and may be in harm's way if things go wrong but it is my understanding that even though Southern California Edison is a publically traded company owned by shareholders that the SCE customers are paying for this problem through their electrical bills. If this is true is there any way for customers to recover their money that SCE has forced them to pay for SCE's poor judgment and mishandling of this situation?
James, Capistrano Beach
These nuclear facilities must be closed! As the catistrophie at Fukashima has more than demomstrated there is no safe way to use nuclear technology. The SCE Nuclear plant is too dangerous to stay on line. Get rid of it! Before its too late.
Keith, San Jose
It is clear, now more than ever, that this plant should never be reopened and that there was fraud committed by So Cal Edison and Mitsubishi who knowingly installed something they knew wouldn't work! How they can pretend to have any concern for the safety of the millions of people who live within the 50 mile radius of the plant is unfathomable. Please help us to make sure this plant never, ever reopens. I live well within the 50 mile radius and have been thankful every single day the plant stays shut. I only hope it will be permanent. The NRC must look out for the best interests of U.S. citizens and not the power company or Mitsubishi. This is another Fukushima waiting to happen. Thank you for your time and actions on this horrendous situation.
Gerry, Laguna Woods
You have made a small first step toward shining some much needed light on what happened at San Onofre, thanks to SCE poor in-house design of the replacement steam generators!! By giving the Industry permission to consider most documents private, there can be no true oversight by the public! Case in Point: The report you mentioned was not made available to the public, if it was then by now these problems would have already been identified by the DAB Safety Team, and that could have saved SoCal residents $54 Million a month! SCE is trying to "game" the evidence against them, and your EPW comm. cannot allow US Nuclear Safety to become yet more Party vs Party Politics, the USA cannot afford a Trillion Dollar Eco-Disaster like Fukushima! The NRC hearing today was yet another sign that the NRC is trying to say that everything is wonderful when in fact we now have a 1.4 Billion dollar problem thanks to SCE trying to circumvent the NRC regulations, because they can!
Don, San Diego
Thank you for your recent efforts calling on the NRC to investigate possible problems at the San Onofre nuclear power plant. I applaud your dedication to ensuring that existing plants are safe and I hope you will work to stop the construction of future plants. Though we need to move away from our reliance on fossil fuels, nuclear power is not the solution. Conservation, education, and improved efficiency, along with green energy options can solve the problem.
Bruce, Long Beach
Thank you for your quick action on this. My faith in you is well founded! That's saying a lot, coming from a registered Republican.
Kathie, Laguna Niguel
I live in Oceanside approximately 15 miles south of the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant and it scares me to death. Please shut it down permanently. Nuclear is not the answer to our energy needs. I understand this plant is similar in design and vintage to the Fukishima Nuclear Power Plant that have devastated life in Japa. Using nuclear energy to boil water is like using a shot gun to kill a fly - more collateral damage than effective action.
Steven, Oceanside
I hope and pray that the San Onofre Plant is closed down. I feel it is not safe and also that we residents have been charged for a plant that has not been operating.
Helen, Mission Viejo
I am dismayed by the apparent glee with which you announce the problems at San Onofre. Our future depends on clean nuclear power. There is no alternative. It is time you become informed and supported immediate construction of 4th generation nuclear power plants in California. Is may already be too late.
Keith, Davis
Thank you for pursuing this investigation. We do not need a catastrophic disaster as in Japan!
Michael, Santa Rosa
San Onofre should perhaps not be restarted at all, certainly not without engineering data/computations made available for independent analysis. The NRC is a captured agency. As Arnie Gunderson has remarked, San Onofre is a giant experiment with Southern California as the guinea pig. Let's not have a nuclear accident here.
Bradford, San Diego
Nuclear Power Plant safety has been a concern of mine since the opening of Diablo Canyon in the 70's. I have lived in San Diego, San Luis Obisbo, or Orange County throughout my adult life. This is too beautiful of a state, and too populated to take chances.
Patricia, San Diego
Thank you for taking up this urgent matter concerning the safety of the San Onofre nuclear power plant. This is proof once again that the private sector cannot be responsible for the welfare of the people and nuclear power must be replaced with renewable energy. It’s unbelievable that even after the disaster in Japan, these fools still gamble with our lives and that of the planet. This is a testament for the need for strong, well-funded government regulatory agencies. Don't let the Republicans cut the budget on the NRC..
Jill, San Diego
This makes a nice headline for the media, but in this case, I actually believe Southern California's denial. From everything released to this point, and from my knowledge of the engineering complexities of the steam generator design, I believe that the likelihood of knowledge of pre-installation flaws in the steam generators is unlikely. This news release only spins up the public living in the area (like me), and should have been fully validated and vetted before being released.
Ray, Oceanside
While I naturally share your concerns regarding the safe operation of any nuclear power plant, especially one near my home, I can't help but think that if there's a possibility that "SCE and MHI rejected enhanced safety modifications and avoided triggering a more rigorous license amendment and safety review process" then there is something seriously wrong with the license amendment and safety review process. It sounds as if, from a regulatory standpoint, additional safety becomes materially punitive. This should never, ever be the case.
Erik, San Diego
Californians respond to my message Senator Boxer Presses NRC on San Onofre Investigation (10/04/12):
Thank you for telling the NRC that the San Onofre nuclear reactor must be FULLY FUNCTIONAL before Southern California Edison can use it again. I agree that all points must be fully investigated and/or repairs completed.
Terry Ellen, Los Angeles
I and everyone I know in Orange County is thrilled San Onofre is shut down. We do not need its toxic waste or even the energy it produces. We have had no black outs or brown outs. KEEP IT SHUT DOWN please! As a teacher, I must stay with students during an emergency evacuation and leave my family to fend for themselves. Thank for all you do!
Mary, Laguna Hills
Thanks you for your diligence in your overview of the San Onofre power plant. We as neighbors to the plant feel that every avenue should be taken no matter the cost to maintain our safety. We feel fortunate have a Senator like you.
Louis, San Clemente
I would like to thank you for staying on top of the NRC as concerns the safety of San Onofre. After having lived in Japan during the Fukushima disaster you will understand my firm belief that nuclear power is never safe. Even if San Onofre is found to be "safe," it's location on the earthquake-prone California coastline and proximity to major populations make it a future disaster. Ask anyone near Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear plant or in neighboring cities - the structure was said to be disaster-proof. Even if the plant is as safe as current technology allows us to make it, there is no way to ensure that the waste can be stored securely without leakage or fear of theft for 10,000 years. Thank you for your concern in making San Onofre as safe as humanly possible... I just don't think that it will be enough.
Roxanne, Sacramento
We need to reopen San Onofre Nuclear unit 2 that is safe to help our power shortage and create and maintain jobs. Nuclear plants in U.S.A. have never been attributed to loss of life and their cost are 5 times more effective than wind and solar. The footprint of land is extremely small compared to wind and solar and the density of power creates many less power line mazes than wind and solar. France gets 80% of her power from Nuclear and has been totally safe. The U.S.A. plants are safe and done their job. By building more nuclear we can solve the power shortages we have which helped attribute to the horrific rise due in part to a lack of power at the Torrance refinery. We need to reverse draconian laws in regards to fuel and refineries to get prices down and let the oil firms build new refineries without huge bureaucratic fees, laws and AQMD over the top laws and get in line with the rest of the country, so Californians can get back to being a strong economy. Thanks for reading my thoughts.
Robert, Murrieta
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your attention to our beautiful beaches and the safety of our community and environment!
Kathryn, San Diego
Thank you for addressing the problems at San Onofre nuclear plant. As you can see from my address I live in the plant's back yard. My hope is that it will remain closed forever. After Fukushima why can't we learn?
Mary Ann, Oceanside
Thank you for what you are doing about the San Onofre Nuclear Plant. Please continue caring. There are thousands of people living near the plant including Marines and their families and the plant has never completely passed a safety test.
Joan, Dana Point
Thank you for making sure that the problems at the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant are thoroughly investigated and resolved by the NRC before the plant can be restarted. I wholeheartedly support your efforts to protect southern California residents from a disaster that could potentially arise from the operation of defective equipment. Extreme high maintenance and oversight is the answer to extreme danger in the nuclear industry. The risk to public safety cannot be overemphasized when it comes to radiation exposure. I appreciate your diligence in this important matter.
Alicia, Carpinteria
Thank you for caring enough about your "Southland" constituents--so much so that you made this request of the NRC. Once again--it's so good to know we voted for the "right" person for your Senate seat!!
Gail, Dana Point
I so appreciate your efforts to create a safe environment for the people of Southern California in regards to the San Onofre Plant. My hope is that you will hear from the commission and it will be a realistic, fact supported, safety review of the whole plant. Thank you for sending me your letter. I support you and your investment in a more earth friendly resource search for energy for the grid at this time and your endeavors to protect us from grave harm.
Sarah, Orange
As a strong supporter of the environment, I am asking that your office make clear it's intentions on nuclear power. I believe nuclear power is an important part of an energy portfolio designed around energy independence. Instead of trying to shutdown the plant, I believe your efforts should be focused on ensuring the operators of the plant keep workers at the plant that are not afraid to speak up if there is reason to be concerned. Having an inside group that is not afraid to speak up is your best defense against power and greed. Current management is more concerned with profits. An example of their profit motives is the intention to layoff over 700 employees without mentioning how the work will be done leading many to believe contractors will be the workforce of choice. While in some cases, contractors bring an expertise or specialty to a particular job or task, there are also many cases at San Onofre where contractors are being brought in to displace Edison employees in an effort to undercut the union workforce. I believe outsourcing is the concern your office should investigate. Your inquiry into this matter would be appreciated.
Rob, Oceanside
Thank you for trying to protect your constituents in CA, particularly those near enough to the location of the San Onofre to be possibly affected in case of a mishap. I personally dislike nuclear power, while realizing it has provided many with electricity, mostly because of the wretched waste that no one knows what to do with and certainly nobody wants. Most 'businessmen' would stretch the limits of anything before addressing potential problems that may cost money; that is what has caused most of the 'accidents' that have befallen mankind. Letting things go--never dreaming of what form 'the straw that breaks the camel's back' will actually take. Thanks for trying to prevent just that--although I have to admit some cynicism that makes me wonder just how "complete" and honest this 'investigation' may actually be. I guess it will be inversely proportional to how much money will be lost by not restarting the facility. But, at least you made the effort to try to help.
Diana, Redding
I appreciate your contacting the NRC with your personal letter calling on them to undertake a thorough investigation of what went wrong with the recently installed steam generators at SONGS which are in a severe state of degeneration at this date! Personally I would like to see SONGS permanently shuttered and decommissioned at the soonest time possible. I live in Fallbrook which is about 25 miles as the crow flies from SONGS and I do not feel at all comfortable with having this toxic power plant anywhere near my neighborhood! What has happened in Japan should be a wake-up call for all of us here in California. IT CAN HAPPEN HERE!!!
Jonathan, Escondido
As someone who lives within 25 miles of San Onofre, it both surprises me and disgusts me that Edison would seek to restart the facility. The flaws of design already pointed out have NOT been addressed NOR has the modeling software of the NRC been corrected. AND, the utilities are trying to have taxpayers bail them out for their failures of oversight and planning. Enough is more than enough; the San Onofre must be shut down and the gas fired plants to replace the power output brought online asap. Especially in view of the pricing associated with gas and the seeming unwillingness of the Interior Dept. to address the issue associated with fracking.
Bruce, Escondido
Thank you for sending to the NRC your concerns about the safety of the San Onofre nuclear power plant. There are several million people living within 50 miles of the San Onofre power plant -- approximately the same number of people to whom the plant provides power. It would be inexcusable for the plant to be restarted prematurely to the detriment of the people it serves. If keeping the plant shut down means there will be rolling outages in the future, so be it -- there are sufficient other means of generating power that they should be explored in the meantime, and San Onofre MUST NOT be restarted until it can be done safely.
Janet, Aliso Viejo
Thanks indeed for keeping an eye on this. Given the age of these devices (both California reactors have performed an entire service life and then some according to their designs as I understand it) it is questionable that they should not be replaced with newer and safer technologies especially in light of the fact that: 1. Fukushima Disaster 2. The development and population density in close proximity to these since they were originally commissioned. The financial impact should one of these had an accident are unthinkable, and as I personally have friends & family in Japan I know firsthand how bad this can get should ANYTHING go wrong. Given the age of these facilities it is clear to me that the risk is far too great to not AT LEAST upgrade with a new, safer, state of the art "NUKE" plant or, even better replaced by alternatives which should they malfunction would not injure 100's of thousands and render one of the largest american metropolises uninhabitable.
W. T., San Pedro
This is of vital importance to all of us here in California. I am so grateful that you take this issue seriously, and hope that we are able to avoid a disaster.
Ruth, Watsonville
Californians respond to my message on Addressing Safety Issues at San Onofre (09/17/12):
I just read your message about the overseeing of the San Onofre, and just wanted to offer my appreciation.
Bruce, Sebastopol
As a resident less than 20 miles away from San Onofre, thank you for staying on top of this serious environmental issue. I know I can count on you to learn from other people/countries and make sure that we keep all residents near nuclear reactors safe. Please continue to make sure that whoever would benefit financially from the reactors being active again, do NOT pull political shenanigans in order to do so and put millions of southern californians in harms way.
Karen, Lake Forest
Thanks for keeping an eye on the safety of San Onofre power plant. We live about 10 miles from that plant and we don't want to lose our home and great place to live forever just because the power plant owners want to make money and minimize losses!
Al, Oceanside
Thank you for the update on the hearings for re-opening the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant. I believe given what we know now, after the Fukushima disaster, there is no way San Onofre should ever be opened again! Not only is it near a fault line, but the reactors are badly built and have had numerous shutdowns and problems. We need to concentrate on alternative forms of energy from now into the future. We have nothing but sun and wind here in California and should be steering our resources to those forms of energy starting immediately.
Gerry, Laguna Woods
Thank you for attempting to protect us from the danger of nuclear energy. We don't need San Onofre in operation, especially in light of the devastating after affects of Fukishima.
Marian, Hollister
I have voted for the Senator over the past 18 years and have visited her in her office in Washington D.C., however, I respectfully request you are extremely careful and well advised to the true condition of San Onofre. As an employee of San Onofre and resident of South Orange County, I too am concerned about the future operability of San Onofre. Yet, its important the media and bureaucrats (including elected officials) speak from a position of knowledge, not political enhancement or emotion when addressing the serious concerns surrounding San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. It remains imperative that the political whims are not what determines San Onofre's operability fate, but rather can San Onofre provide unconditional safe operation generating electricity into the State's starved electrical grid and at a cost that's fair to the customer's of Southern California Edison Company, San Diego Gas & Electric and the City of Riverside. Anything less and San Onofre will face the proverbial wrecking ball staring straight into its massive containment domes.
Jeff, Mission Viejo
Thank you for your stewardship of nuclear reactors. Yes, I am against nuclear power and hoping that we will soon regain our senses and decommission all those filthy reactors. Meanwhile, thanks for trying to keep them safe as they are phased out. It is about time we gave our environment the respect it deserves for supporting our lives.
Karen, Oakland
I appreciate your supervision and constant work on safety regarding SONGS. as a resident of Oceanside and in the critical radius of SONGS, I ask you to do everything in your power to make sure that SONGS will stay shut down permanently and that radioactive waste is safely and properly stored. Our lives, our children and grandchildren, and our environment cannot survive a potential accident. I also urge you to keep working on expanding and investing in clean, renewable, green, safe energy in California and in the rest of the USA.
Alessandra, Oceanside
Please do what you can to be SUPPORTIVE of the restarting of the nuclear power facility. We need the power in S. Orange County. Perhaps Government can help citizens by helping these utility companies provide the power we need, and not simply assume that they are operating the plants in an unsafe manner. My father was a Nuclear engineer, involved with the development of a powerplant for a nuclear aircraft in the 1960s and his understanding of government officials is that they know very little about what they are doing when it comes to technology, and a Nuclear power plant is indeed very high technology. Please assist them and all of us with your support to get this facility back on the grid.
Jeffrey, Laguna Niguel
You are way off base. You need to do all you can to help us switch to 100% nuclear power. Probably doesn't matter to you personally but your grandkids will thank you for the clean nuclear power you can help provide. Get informed. Go to www.thesciencecouncil.com Find out what is REALLY going on.
Keith, Davis
Thank you so much for writing me about San Onofre and the safety concerns at the other 104 reactors across the US. I'm numbering these points because there are 3 very important issues relating to SONGS that I am sure you are concerned with: 1) SONGS must be closed for safety reasons - I have studied the reasons for the leak and know that SoCal Edison misled the NRC about the breadth of change that happened with the new steam generators in order to avoid a full investigation of the safety of the plant. Now SoCal Edison is pointing fingers everywhere - at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, at the computer programmers, everywhere but itself. Regardless of whose fault it was, the reactor is not safe to restart. This is not to mention our vulnerability in case of earthquake, tsunami, etc!) 2) and the $470 million the rate payers spent on the steam generators is gone. We ratepayers are even paying SoCal Edison 54 million per month NOW for SONGS - when it is out of order!!!!! So SONGS does make sense fiscally. 3) The biggest surprise of late to me was that Michael Peevey is both head of the CPUC and the ex-director of So Cal Edison. This man needs to recuse himself from his position at the CPUC for the glaring conflict of interest. He has a vested interest in getting the reactor up and running and is not acting with the interests of Californians at heart. Imagine all of the renewable energy we could create with the money being wasted to protect the shareholders of So Cal Edison. Thank you for reading this and for taking the closing of SONGS seriously.
Mara, Venice
We have gotten along fine w/o this power plant. The people in Japan were told that their power plant was safe too and look what happened to them! We live in an earthquake prone area here that is way overdue for a big one! (just like them) We have NO business having this plant on the coastline where a tsunami could hit also. This is a disaster waiting to happen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Don't let them reopen it please.
Kay, Spring Valley
Thanks for your participation in this highly important safety issue for the entire USA. I'm convinced that the Nuclear energy production in the country is FAR, FAR too dangerous to continue any longer. The facts bear this out EVERY time I research this issue. Would you please begin and implementation to closing down every single one of these horrendously dangerous reactors before we have a catastrophic event in OUR country? Please begin with the deactivation of San Onofre Nuclear Plant.
William, Manhattan Beach
Thank you so much for "having our backs" down here in South Orange County! It's certainly comforting to know that our safety (regarding the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant) is a priority for you!
Gail, Dana Point
I have absolutely no fear of San Onofre. The decisions made there are always first and foremost, "Public Safety". They are dealing with problems brought about by an interest in more power. The issues will be corrected without public or political concerns.
Ron, Fallbrook
I appreciate your interest about ongoing topics at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS). As a member of the Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA), Local 246, and NRC licensed Senior Reactor Operator who works at SONGS, I have a clear interest in maintaining the high standards required of workers in the nuclear industry. I also want to assure you that despite recent technical concerns related to the recently replaced steam generators, my fellow SONGS workers are equally interested in maintaining those standards. The workers at SONGS, union and non-represented, want to return to being Southern California’s single largest source of greenhouse gas free, affordable and safe electricity. Should you have any doubts or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the unions that represent many of the workers at SONGS. In addition to the UWUA, other unions include the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Carpenters Union and the Laborers International Union.
William, Laguna Niguel
Reading the report by the Union of Concerned Scientists, a very reputable and non-partisan research group, our nuclear reactors are not well maintained and significant problems have not been addressed as apparently the Nuclear Regulatory Commission sees itself as serving the needs of their users rather than the health and safety of our nation as a whole. If there was ever a concern for domestic terrorism, access to spent rods are yet another huge concern that would dwarf the bombings by fertilizer. And of course, we have only to look at Japan despite their advance technologies to see the irreparable damage that can be caused by one accident. Please do not let the commission continue that way that they have. My fear is that the Commission will politely nod their heads and continue as they have for many years now. Please, do not let this happen on your watch and under your leadership.
Michael, Santa Rosa
Thank you so much for representing the people's interests by holding the NRC accountable. Nuclear energy is neither clean, sustainable nor even supportable without taxpayer subsidies. We need to move as quickly away from it as possible by developing sustainable sources and shutting these hazardous plants down. Again, thank you for focusing on this issue, I live in Lakewood, Ca, very close to it. I don't want to be another nuclear victim!
Sashi, Lakewood
Please stop stalling the process. Get San Onofre working again. Sure have the necessary safeguards in place... but it is time to get it operating again.
D., Aliso Viejo
Thank you for your actions regarding safety at the San Onofre Nuclear Plant. I feel well represented by you regarding this matter.
Robert, Riverside
Thank you for following through on protection and safety concerns regarding our nuclear power sites in the US. It's good to know someone in our government is doing this.
Jan and Bob, Hayfork
Thank you for taking a personal concern into the safety of the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant. I appreciate your oversight. We must have confidence that all has been done to ensure the safety of the unit(s) before it is activated again.
Nona, San Clemente
The sooner the plant can once again began providing us with clean, reliable, US made energy, the better for all of us. God knows we need it here in California-one of the most expensive states to live in.
Jerome, Winchester
Thank you for your email about holding the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to the highest possible safety standards for the health of our communities. With toxic waste that lasts longer than any recorded civilization (20,000+ years), I cannot imagine why humans do this. When factoring in the cost for babysitting radioactive waste in perpetuity and the incalculable cost of a major accident, it cannot be touted as the low cost energy that justified its initial investment. Now, it's a matter of how do we limit that damage.
Laura, Berkeley
We in our Oxnard, CA community appreciate your Senate actions protecting CA and our Nation from dangerous Nuclear impacts. The City of Oxnard is in close proxmity of the San Onofre Nuclear Plant - it is a constant concern to us. The solution is to invest more in Renewables Solar, Wind etc. I know you are supporting these measures and appreciate you doing that.
Lupe, Oxnard
Thank you for keeping your constituents up to date on the status of San Onofre (SONGS). I hope you will take this moment to listen to your constituents...My Orange County CA neighbors and I all feel the same way... keep San Onofre SHUT DOWN. The risk to our families and property do NOT outweigh the benefits of keeping it operational....as demonstrated by the fact that we all just "survived" the last eight weeks of the 4th hottest August in recorded history, with minimal to NO IMPACT to our power supply. We don't have to have San Onofre to survive. There were FLEX ALERTS and it was reported on the news that EVERYONE COOPERATED and turned appliances off when it was needed. That I am aware of, we in Rancho Santa Margarita didn't see any unplanned or widespread blackouts. This tells my neighbors and I that we can certainly get along WITHOUT SONGS, and we would vote to do so! If we don't learn from Fukishima, then we are truly fools. SONGS is just too close to the San Andreas fault, which the USGS tells us will go in a big way at some point... it's not a matter of if, but when.
MaryAnne, Rancho Santa Margarita
We appreciate the safety concerns, but we also hope that you will make every effort to change our policies to encourage the development of more nuclear plants being built on our soil which will help us become more energy dependent. More nuclear energy plants will create more jobs and will improve our economy. While we need to develop all our sources of energy, nuclear energy is the cleanest, safest form of energy.
Eric, Fallbrook
As a person who has studied chemistry for two years I have knowledge of the dangers of nuclear energy. We should learn from japans experience is and act on more secure nuclear plants.
Christian, Montebello
Tuna-Dolphin
Californians respond to my message on Strengthening the Dolphin-Safe Tuna Label:Thanks so much for letting me know that our dolphin safe tuna label is not only protected from the absurd WTO ruling, but that our national agencies are working to make it even better. I was very concerned that our government, as beholden as it is to big corporations, would use the WTO decision as cover to gut the label requirements. I was outraged, but felt helpless. Thanks so much for protecting our marine co-species.
Kimberly, Yreka
Thank you for your continuing work to protect dolphins.
Sheila, Santa Monica
Dolphin Safe Tuna, etc
Hi Senator, I appreciate your great work and do look for the dolphin safe label but at this point at least on the West Coast (including Hawaii) this label doesn't matter. No one should be eating tuna. 100% of tuna caught in California has tested toxic due to the Japanese nuclear disaster. And it is still leaking!! Large and small ocean wildlife are washing up dead on the shores of our beaches. This is sickening. Please, put pressure on Japan and offer support to stop the nuclear plant from leaking ASAP. Please, label the seafood that comes from Japan or stop selling any toxic food here including our locally toxic fish.
Helen, Los Altos
Thank you for the update and your efforts in this area.
Eleanor, Oceanside
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Comprehensive Immigration Reform
Californians respond to my message on Working Together for Immigration Reform:Our country is a country of immigrants. I don't see how we can refuse citizenship to immigrants who broke no laws, but have lived here most of their lives. Thank you for your hard work, Senator.
Patricia, Groveland
As someone whose ancestors came here in 1643 to begin with, and more recently my great-grandparents met here after coming from Norway in a love story that could only happen in America. Our newcomers bring us a richness envied by the world!
Nancy, Eureka
I fully support comprehensive immigration reform. We need a path to citizenship for the undocumented. Within 7 years. Keeping families United.
Rosanne, Los Angeles
Thank you Senator Barbara Boxer for supporting the immigration reform to help our brothers and sisters who are often seperated from their loved ones and trying to better their plight in spite of opposition of unjust treatment and laws. I have not yet seen the DRAFT of the reform and I was hoping that you would send me a copy so I can judge for myself if it is in keeping with the law of God-"Love your neighbor as you love yourself". Thank you for keeping me posted.
Sister Madeline, Vista
Please continue to insist that any immigration reform package must include same sex bi-national couples. My partner and I are a bi-national couple and after a long and expensive struggle he finally received permanent resident status this year. We are fortunate that we were able to afford an excellent attorney to assist us, but most bi-national couples are not, resulting in disastrous outcomes. It is critical that this issue stay in any comprehensive reform.
Doug, Vallejo
I am replying to your latest e-mail to voice my opposition to immigration reform and in particular any sort of amnesty (e.g. path to citizenship). I know you do not agree with me, but this is not the correct approach. We need to be shutting off the magnets and NOT rewarding those who break our laws. We were fooled during the Reagan Administration's amnesty and the American people will be fooled once again.
Michael, Corona
I am glad you are supporting immigration reform. Your holistic perspective shows that immigration reform is a positive for everyone.
Sheila, Santa Monica
I am adamantly opposed to any kind of amnesty for any of the illegal aliens. It is unfair to the millions of people who have gone through the proper laws and procedures to become legal immigrants as well as people waiting to immigrate in the legal way.
Mary, Burlingame
THANK YOU for supporting a compassionate and just immigration reform and for meeting and hearing from people who know the issue up close and personal.
Rosalinda, Woodland
Please move Immigration Reform along quickly! There is no longer any time for more discussion per the Rubio path.
Gustavo, Santa Barbara
Thank you for your last week activity. We are committed to this cause in work and prayer.
Fr. Domenico, Long Beach
I totally support your work for comprehensive immigration reform. My interest is to promote the provision of health insurance for guest workers through this legislation, or at least to make sure that all guest workers are provided health insurance by their employers. The kinds of work that guest workers often do are laborious and dangerous.
Ray, Los Angeles
I support Democratic efforts at Comprehensive Immigration Reform. There must be a timely path to citizenship.
Mike, Downey
I fully support immigration reform. There are many entry jobs and those, esp from Mexico, do a huge service for the people of the US and deserve better treatment, salaries, and opportunities in the US.
Sharon, San Jose
How in God's name is what you call "Immigration Reform" going to 'create jobs' and 'improve our economy'? 20 million AMERICANS are either unemployed or under-employed. How is adding another 11 million job seekers going to help them?
Martha, Concord
Thank you for taking initiative with this issue. It has been much too long a broken system. If Congress can get anything done, I hope this becomes a major support of families and the well being of our people...especially our youth!
Robert, Pasadena
I have always agreed in the past now and the future exactly what you just said concerning immigration reform for the good of our country. Set aside hate, bias, racism and prejudice which is brings down this great country of ours let us not shoot ourselves. Please continue to voice your positive opinion on a comprehensive immigration reform for the good of our country.
Carlos, Moorpark
I believe some sort of immigration reform is necessary to screen undocumented residents for citizenship. From what I understand, the path to citizenship is demanding, such that current citizens who came by their status by being born here probably would have a hard time making the grade without just as much study as a non-citizen trying to become one. I hope a realistic plan is in place that commits to citizenship for those the politicians deem worthy WITH actions that control our borders. They cannot be separate issues.
Milton, La Mesa
Thanks for your work on immigration reform, it is needed. I am shocked at the number of people who are in "detention" facilities waiting to be deported, if these stories are true, then I think reform needs to start by quickly shutting down these place that sound like prison camps.
Lloyd, Davis
In dealing with the immigration issue I urge you to keep in mind those of use in the construction industry who are playing by the rules and being injured by the status quo. I am the owner of a small licensed general contracting firm complete with license; license bond; and liability insurance. Simply put: I cannot compete with undocumented illegal aliens coming North and undercutting my bids routinely. Please keep honest little business owners like me in mind when addressing the immigration issue.
Mark, Vacaville
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Californians respond to my message on Women and Immigration Reform:
Thank you for supporting a pathway to citizenship for the many undocumented in the US, with special attention to the problems of women and children.
Tamar, La Jolla
Please understand that there are many, many Americans who can sympathize with illegal immigrants, but feel that it is wrong to reward any people for breaking our laws! Your and my people came here legally, and all others should do the same.
LeiLani, Paradise
Thank you very much for your hard work and interest in supporting the immigration reform.
Virginia, North Hills
I have lived among the immigrants now for several years - and know that they are worthy of our support. It is their land as much as ours. Thank you for caring for California and its very special people.
Ardith, Los Angeles
Thank you very much, for your support we all need a comprehensive immigration reform, I trust my vote to you and President Obama, please don't let this initiative die again in the hands of the Republican Party.
Liliana, Glendale
I wanted to raise several issues concerning the pending immigration "compromise." Many of the proposed conditions are severely draconian and disconcerting. As you know California has a huge undocumented immigrant population. I predominantly represent poor people as an attorney in Los Angeles. I work for a non-profit. Most of our clients are very poor undocumented immigrants. They are severely taken advantage of by people using their status as a club to beat them down. Landlords and employers are using the system to abuse them. They are the nicest and hardest working people you would ever know and they are honest as the day is long. They do not deserve to be treated as sub-humans. Some of my concerns regard the following: 1. The background check. Of course, we don't want career criminals to gain legal status. However, a mistake or two, especially since they paid their debt to society, should not preclude them from gaining legal status. The requirement of a squeaky clean record will only keep more people in the shadows. 2. The length of time of filing back taxes. Most undocumented immigrants have paid taxes for years, and in fact over-paid. Requiring them to go back for decades seems very onerous and unnecessary. 3. The amount of the fine. Many undocumented immigrants are at or below the poverty level. A heavy fine would be out of the question because they cannot afford it. They are at this level because of being taken advantage of, which should factor in the equation… The primary goal of the reform should be to bring undocumented immigrants out of the shadows as quickly as possible. I know republicans are concerned about the voting issue, which I get. The length of time to become a full citizen seems very long to me, but I understand it. However, the issues raised in this e-mail should not be a barrier to gaining legal status. We need to get these people out of the shadows as soon as possible for the good of the country.
Paul, Los Angeles
I heartily support your efforts at immigration reform.
Elizabeth, Bakersfield
César Chávez
Californians respond to my message on Celebrating César Chávez Day:I am so happy that you have honored one of my all-time heroes: Cesar Chavez, he who started the UFW, and did so much to help farm workers to get a fair shake for their back-breaking work. Si se puede!
Patrice, Santa Barbara
Thank you for the reminder of the life and work of Cesar Chavez. I worked with him and the farm workers in Los Angeles in the 1960's during the famous lettuce and grape boycotts.
Tom, San Luis Obispo
Californians respond to my message on the César E. Chávez National Monument (10/02/2012):
I was gratified to read that there is going to be a monument to our role model and leader Caesar Chavez and that President Barack Obama is involved in its dedication. Your efforts on behalf the working men and women of California and their children are appreciated. John, Huntington Beach
Thanks for letting us know about this. It is especially timely in this era of union busting, excessive CEO compensation, and a rapidly growing divide between those on top and the rest of us. I hope that as a result of this designation, many more people will come to know how the efforts of this American hero improved the lives of countless workers.Peter, Vallejo
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Veterans Claims Backlog
Californians respond to my message on Reducing the Backlog of VA Disability Claims:I wanted to thank you for your interest in the current status of Veterans Claims with the V.A. As a Viet Nam era veteran I truly appreciate your efforts on behalf of my brother and sister vets. While I have had absolutely no problem with the service I have had at the Jerry Pettis V.A. Hospital in Loma Linda, California, I do appreciate that there are vets who are having problems with the general system. I thank you for looking out for their interests.
Jack, Moreno Valley
THANK YOU for helping the men and women who are applying for Veterans' Benefits. I am a Veteran, Disabled at 100%, a wife, and a mother. I waited, alone, without food or a job, for EIGHT YEARS. this is senseless. I would like to apply for further disability, although it will gain me nothing but recognition and HELP for my illnesses, but no one has ever found my medical records. Nevertheless, THANK YOU for what you are doing to end the suffering and confusion of those newly-returned or newly-disabled.
Mu'aatha, San Gabriel
When I first heard about this problem, I thought, 'What a horrible disgrace and disservice to veterans who gave so unselfishly.' This is how our government and country care for our service members?
Jeffrey, Sylmar
Great! keep up your efforts on this Please! Those boys deserve better, all the counseling and treatment they need to heal after the many tours and traumas of our long wars. The despair that leads to so many suicides has to be alleviated as quickly and humanely as possible. Our country used them to fight too lengthy a war and must accept responsibility for their recovery & healing. Please keep up the pressure on these matters. Thank you for thinking of them and being in a position to effect change.
Elizabeth, Palm Springs
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Medicare and the Budget
Californians respond to my message on Protecting and Strengthening Medicare:
Thank you for your efforts to stop the Republican agenda to balance the budget on the backs of the people least able to afford it. Please continue to be an advocate for protecting medicare and Social Security. Your action is much appreciated.
Vaughn, San Francisco
thank you for protecting my earned benefits for retirement
John, San Jose
For the life of me I can't figure out how Paul Ryan can look at himself in the mirror in the morning. He is not doing what the public in his district need and sent him to congress to do!
Susan, Stockton
You have done the right thing in speaking out about the importance of keeping our promises to seniors by passing a budget that protects it. Seniors here and across the country benefit from your tireless work.
Marc, Aliso Viejo
Personally, having to pay $6,000 more (the Republican proposal) would be devastating. My health would be greatly effected, I would have many more problems and probably spend unnecessary time in the hospital. Not only would that effect me and my family but it would be much more expensive for taxpayers.
Susan, San Gabriel
Thank you so much for protecting Medicare and Medicaid and opposing the Paul Ryan heinous budget with all of your heart, mind and soul. The Paul Ryan budget in my opinion is an agent of evil, with a capital E. Your faithful constituent,
Robert, Camarillo
Thank you for standing up for medicare. It is non-negotiable. Ryan did NOT win the election and we know why. Ryan and his ilk must learn they were defeated.
Deena, Topanga
Dear Senator, too often what politicians say lack what should be said. Medicare is underfunded in a major way and neither you or any other pol is being realistic about what needs to be done. It is as simple as this, what people pay into medicare does not come close to cover what is given out in claims. Either medicare premiums must go up a LOT and/or services and/or benefits must be cut a LOT. Please get serious about this issue. Medicare is too generous a benefit for what it costs. I love to get things cheap ! However, it is plain to see it must be fixed sooner rather then later.
Brett, Oceanside
thanks for standing strong please keep up the fight to make sure that "bipartisanship" and "compromise" do not mean selling out completely to hard line right wingers.
John, Arcata
Thank you for standing up for the Medicare System. With all of the "talk" about health care, people forget that this is and has been the best system we have. It protects people when they need it the most. It is also the most cost effective health care system and it is already in place. I wish that health care special interests did not have so much power over our elected officials or a single payer system utilizing Medicare would already have been passed. With all of the political wrangling on this issue, it is often forgotten that many years ago there was once a proposal to include all Americans under Medicare. I am sure that you know that the politician who first proposed this was Richard M. Nixon! Republicans should think long and hard on that. The other thing that can easily be done to keep Medicare solvent is to REQUIRE Medicare providers to submit bids. Then services and medicine costs would be more in line with what the providers charge in the rest of the world. American citizens are being ripped off. And I am sure that is the intent of healthcare providers and big pharma lobbyists. They got a good thing goin'.
Karl, Pasadena
Thank you for protecting or social security and medicare and for all the other wonderful things you do. As always you have my full support.
Julia, Plumas Lake
Women’s History Month
Californians respond to my message on Celebrating Women’s History Month:I really appreciated your message about what we have achieved for women but how much more we need to work on. Why do you think we have so few women in congress and in local government?
Annie, Claremont
Right on! Thank you.
Dulce, San Diego
To add to your recent e mail, It should also be included that women have a long way to go to feel safe from sexual and domestic violence and the ability to control when and if to have children. I am concerned that a woman's right to choose is being endangered. I am also concerned that women aren't able to stay with their children until they are 3 years old. You could call this children's rights.
Karen, San Leandro
So many women continue to be under represented in government, business, science, technology, schools and church. So glad Mr Biden Nancy and Loretta represented us today. Keep up the good work.
Monica, Downey
California Wilderness
Californians respond to my message on Protecting Wilderness in California:As a native Californian I have sadly watched the urbanization of much of what used to be wild and open country. I want to express my deep gratitude for all that you have done to save a measure of our great state's heritage for us to continue to enjoy and for our children and future generations to enjoy forever. I know how hard it is to work within the legislative process where the wheels can often turn exceedingly slowly. I commend you for your patience, diligence and plain hard work and dedication.
Scott, Temecula
Thank you for all of your continued work in this regard. It is invaluable!
Lawrence, San Diego
I applaud your efforts to protect and expand California's magnificent wilderness. Every year I back pack the East side of the Sierra and it seems to get better with every trip. I am almost 70 now, so my future trips will be limited. I realize that if it were today (instead of past decades) that we had the opportunity to create our magnificent National Parks, it probably would not be politically possible. Thank you for your environmental oversight.
Craig, Escondido
Thank you for your strong support in defense for wilderness protection. I know its not an easy task given the relentless anti-wilderness Republicans and their corporate allies. Its disappearing rapidly. Future generations will look back and commend you for your efforts. We need to know what it was like for the first humans to roam the earth.
Michael, Agoura Hills
As an avid art photographer, hiker, and one who believes we are absolutely to care for and celebrate the amazing gift of the unique environment here in CA, I send my deepest thanks for your latest bill presented to congress. Understanding that eco-tourism is a huge asset if we set aside special areas, and preserve them is visionary, and wise. I have many, many friends who travel specifically to protected areas to shoot photography in pristine, wild conditions. Now we must find money to bring more people from other states, and around the world to the most amazing state in the nation.
Marisa, Bakersfield
It is very important to protect and conserve these lands for everyone to enjoy for now and the future. Also to protect wildlife and for recreation. I, as a nature and animal lover appreciate it.
Julie, Roseville
That is exciting to hear and I know you will work hard to set aside as much land as possible. Our natural beauty is what makes our planet and state so amazing. We need to relie on wind energy more and we should protect our redwoods more. Thank you so much for the extention of our wilderness and you will continue having my vote because of it.
Dustin, Los Angeles
Thank you for all of your work for us, Senator Boxer, but especially for your work in protecting California wilderness! i am happy to say that my family has visited many of the areas you have helped to protect, and so it means a lot to us to know of your continuing efforts to preserve and expand our state's wilderness areas.
Barrie, Westminster
THANKS! I'm a person who rides a bicycle and hikes a lot. We try to not use cars...rent one once a month to do big shopping. I can get to these Places on BART and bike!! I love it. There is more to being in the Senate than fighting with the ultra right. THIS is one of those things.
Joseph, Pittsburg
Thank you for all your work in preserving and expanding wilderness areas in California. I received your email with the new link to show the areas you have working on and found it to be a good reference. Please know that the people of California appreciate all your hard work in this arena.
Ann, Upland
Thank you for making the beautiful natural heritage of California a priority during your term. As a native Californian who grew up in a small country town, I really value what California has to offer. Many thanks for making good decisions on behalf of the state and her citizens.
Megaen, Newcastle
I am VERY glad to see you are concerned about our beautiful state. I have lived here all my life & have seen a lot of distruction for profit. I am behind you 100% in this fight. God bless you & the wonderful state we live in.
Dena, Oceanside
In the face of pressure by major industries which desire access to despoil our wildlands, and that also seek to keep the public out so they cannot see the destruction these corporations wreak as they plunder these areas, thank you for holding the line. The people and animals of California all praise your efforts.
Marguerite, Pasadena
You have not created wilderness, all you have done is stripped more of our rights away by decreasing the opportunities we have as citizens of this great state to enjoy the "wilderness" as we see fit. Please do more to enforce the laws currently implemented such as: no littering, no arson, no engaging in any other type of criminal activity that is already against the law. Please do more to enforce the laws currently on the books and balance the budget, without burdening us with more costly and ineffective programs. Thank you,
Josh, Valley Center
THANK YOU FOR PROTECTING OUR WILDERNESS. ONCE IT IS GONE OR DEVELOPED, IT IS GONE FOREVER.
Helen, Dana Point
Senator Boxer, thank you for all your work protecting the remaining wilderness areas in California. Your efforts are so important to generations of people who enjoy the areas now and in the future and also to the diminishing native ecosystems of California, which are spectacular and so fragile.
Kate, Menlo Park
Thank you for protecting, preserving and increasing wildlife wildness in our beautiful state for all of us and generations in the future to witness and enjoy!
Susan, San Diego
I really like the link to the interactive online map of wilderness areas in California. It was very informative and hopefully I will be able to visit some of these areas soon. I truly believe these wilderness areas in California as well as our National Parks are truly treasures that should not be taken for granted by any of us. Thank you for your continued service to our country.
Nancy, Rocklin
Thank you very much for taking an interest in our wilderness areas. This is such an important matter to our livelihood.
Denise, Sunland
Thanks for your email about the Wilderness Areas you have helped to sponsor in California. My family and I appreciate your efforts in this area. Keep up the good work!
Donald, Culver City
I am so tired of losing more and more access to public lands as I am an avid and responsible 4-wheeler. So few people can access some of these "Wilderness Areas" that this designation becomes inacceable to most. While you and others feel your doing a fantastic thing, I disaggree. In the future, I wish you to consider "Everyone" not the select few. Sincerely,
Steven, Georgetown
As an avid nature lover and environmentalist, I am pleased to see your emphasis on the protection of California's vital wilderness areas. We live in one of the most beautiful states, and protection of its varied ecosystem is crucial. Thank you for your efforts to protect our unique wildlands.
Darlene, Spring Valley
I want to thank you for all you have done to protect this state's wilderness. It is to me just about the most precious thing our state & country have. So much of the wilderness I learned about as a child through "The Wonderful World of Disney", "Wild Kingdom" and "National Geographic"is no longer available for me to ever visit, now that I am disabled and not so mobile. I also must let you know I am vehemently against ANY kind of drilling anywhere in my country and have no desire to encourage our neighboring countries to destroy their wild places. I hold very precious our plant and animal life, so much so that I really don't support the XL pipeline project. After I moved to California in 1989, I saw my first California Sea Lion in SF Bay and Great Blue Herons nesting at Audubon Canyon Ranch. I became a bird watcher as a child in West Chester County, New York, and considered Great Blue Herons to be a holy grail. I never dreamed I would ever see a sea lion in it's habitat! I have seen so much wildlife since moving here only because it has been preserved. I am extremely grateful to you and the handful of politicians who value the wilderness and the lives which depend on it. I feel very blessed to live in this state, even though I identify strongly with New York, where I grew up. It is my hope to see a Bald Eagle here in the North Bay in the not too distant future. I could go on & on about all of the things I have experienced in California. I'm sure your staff has better things to do with their time than to read my reminisences. Thank you for your time,
Mary, Petaluma
Thank you for taking up this just and noble cause. The hard work you do is much appreciated.
Michael, Pinole
As a second generation Californian, I have had seventy-seven years to enjoy the treasures of California. My parents shared their love of the great outdoors with my brother and I throughout our childhoods into adulthood. My husband and I have shared our love of nature through our 53 years of marriage. We still enjoy our State Parks and glorious land to this very day. Our last visit was to Hawk Watch in Ramona just two weeks ago. We do our best to educate young people and be protectors of these glorious lands. THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS FOR YOUR MANY GIFTS TO CALIFORNIA. WE KNOW THESE TREASURES WILL BE THERE FOR THE GENETATIONS TO COME.
Betty, Solana Beach
Voting Rights Act
Californians respond to my message on Protecting Voting Rights for All:Thank you for supporting the Voting Rights bill. Requiring photo I.D. and other new requirements doesn't bode well for all people's voting rights and should be stopped.
Suzanne, Fremont
I am 87 years old (never failed to vote in city, local, state or national since I first voted @ 21yrs old) and I do not want any part of the act changed. There have been too much misery, hardship, and lives lost obtaining the right to vote when we final got an answer to the cries of our ancestors. I feel the same passion about the act as the NRA does about the 2nd amendment.
Lillie, Oakland
Senator Boxer, how can this be happening? And we call the U.S. a free country??? Thank you for helping stop this idiotic nonsense.
Gilda, Glendora
I was so worried when I read and heard about all of the dirty tricks that were being pulled to disenfranchise people of color in counties primarily black and brown. I lived in Mobile and Nashville in the late-60s and early-70s and saw for myself some of the signs that had yet to be removed designating restrooms and water fountains as Colored and White. It made my heart sink as I had never seen racism before since I grew up in Minneapolis, MN. As things turned out for this years' election, I was so scared that they wouldn't. I hope that means that certain extremists are well known now and people will not vote against their own best interests. Thank you for leading the charge to be sure this doesn't happen again. When I heard what Justice Scalia said about the Voting Rights Act not being necessary and that it was Racial Entitlement, I thought he must not read the paper or watch TV or he would have known what we all went through wondering if everyone was going to get a chance to vote. The dirty tricks that were pulled were so disgusting and so beneath the leaders who were pulling them that I was disenchanted with politics altogether. Thank heaven and because I live in California, I know I can count on you to stem these attacks before they become activated. I'm not so sure that was the case in 2000 and 2004. We might be living in a much different country now if everyone had an equal right to vote at that time!
Merrily, San Diego
I agree with you on your point of view but one thing is missing. Voter ID verification at the polls. Providing ID is the only way to make our system effective and correct.
Robert, Redondo Beach
I have to disagree with you and anyone that thinks the privilege and responsibility of voting should be extended to anyone without proving that they indeed have that right. Which means they would need to provide proper identification that they are a citizen of this country. This privilege should be take extremely seriously by all. It is more important than proving who you are when cashing a check or driving a car, etc. all of which you must prove who you are before acceptance! Please reconsider you position on this.
Beulah, Hermosa Beach
I read your Voting Rights Act Op-Ed in the Grio. The anecdote you revealed about your experience in Florida in 1950 was an all too sad reminder of circumstances that unfortunately continue to exist today although in a less overt practice. It is so unfortunate that in some parts of our society, children are still taught to harbor such ignorance when it comes to race; it is similarly sad when children in other parts of our society do not have an understanding that such racial bias still exists in today's world. Thank you for expressing your thoughts.
Jack, Moreno Valley
When I voted in our March primary I was appalled to learn that I did not have to show my drivers license or any other identification. Later I went to Rite Aid to buy cough syrup and I was required to show my ID. Something is wrong with this picture... I think being politically correct is getting out of hand. Regards
Annette, Sherman Oaks
I do not need the protection, but I know many who do. Thank you!
Carlos, San Francisco
While I do believe that all QUALFIED citizens must have their right to vote protected, I think that the provision requirement to print ballots in multiple languages is ludicrous. If you are a citizen of the US, you should learn to speak, read and write the 'de facto' language of the country, English.
Woodrow, San Dimas
Californians respond to my message on Ending Long Lines on Election Day:
Thank you for taking on voter fraud that appeared in the form of making it difficult for a certain class of people to vote. The Republicans were hell bent on winning this last election and there was very little they wouldn't stoop to in order to achieve this. Well, it backfired, thankfully. I was a Republican until Richard Nixon went down in flames. I decided I didn't want to be associated with people of low morals. Again, thank you for your hard work.
Mark, Santa Ana
I have to admit that most people in our comumnity cast their ballots long in advance by their mail-in ballots, but I do prefer to wait until the last minute after I've heard all of the rhetoric from all of the candidates before I go to the polls. I never have to wait! For those who do have a problem waiting in lines at the polls, why don't they go to that government office near-by where they can cast their vote in advance, or if they have a legitimate address, just ask for an absentee ballot. When my husband I and I were living overseas we voted in every election by mailing in our ballots because we were registered voters in our state.
Carole, Ramona
I don't see the details of your [bill] but based on the summary I am only seeing talk of setting up more places to vote in order to shorten the lines. That is only one of many solutions that combined could be much more effective. First, banks seem to trust we are who we say we are…, so why not vote online from home? Also, I am one of many people who vote using absentee ballots to vote before election day, but that needs reform …. How about at least sending us an email confirming that our vote was received and counted….
Nicholas, Upland
Californians respond to my message on Avoiding Long Lines on Election Day:
Thank you for STANDING UP to those states who kept voters standing in line for hours and hours. I could not believe that such a "third world" scenario would happen in America. There is NO excuse for that--they know how many registered voters they have, and they should be prepared! The government of Florida seems to march to a different drummer--every single national election they do their best to screw it up!!! It's just shameful. Put them in their place!
Catherine, Scotts Valley
Three or 100 cheers for you, Senator Boxer. I used to be in charge of the polling station at my local poll in San Bernardino and I feel very strongly about the need to facilitate the act of voting for each and every registered voter. It would be interesting, I think, to compare the final results of the election in each of the polls where the voters were delayed so long. And some kind of recognition ought to go to those voters who were dedicated enough to stick it out, especially those who waited around until the next morning where necessary. And since the right to vote is guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution regardless of the offices to be filled by the election, I think it is the obligation of the Federal Government to protect that right even when no federal offices are being voted upon. Thanks for your help!
Jane, Banning
I was a volunteer lawyer with President Obama's Victory Campaign/Election Protection group and spent 8 days in Broward County Florida protecting the vote. I personally witnessed the tenacity and determination of thousands of Floridians waiting on line for hours every day to cast their vote. Each day I would arrive at the polling place around 7 a.m. and the line was already extending down the block. Each subsequent day of early voting the line grew longer and more people came out to vote at our polling place. We had people return on multiple days because after waiting 2-3 hours before they could vote, they had to leave to go to work. We had multiple people in their 90s waiting for hours to vote, as well as people who were disabled or pregnant. I saw a man with Stage 4 cancer waiting for hours. We had many voters bring their small children and babies with them to vote. I observed these young ones trying to be as "good" and patient as little children who are tired, bored and hungry can be while waiting for hours. I also saw the fatigue, stress and concern on their parents' faces, as they tried to avoid a "meltdown" long enough to reach the front of the line and finally cast their ballots. Thank you Senator Boxer for sponsoring this much needed legislation. I believe in and support your effort to fix the system and establish minimum voting standards for all. I witnessed first-hand that long voting lines is a form of "poll tax" borne very heavily by working people, the elderly, the disabled, the poor, and people of color. Your proposed legislation is an excellent first step to fighting back against the impact of voter suppression efforts. It is a very significant piece of legislation for maintaining our democracy.
Schweizer, Deborah, San Francisco
LINE Act
Thank you for the LINE Act to protect the voting rights of people in states that punished those citizens who wanted to do their duty so much that they had to wait hours to vote. I'm so glad you're our senator!
Garcia-Sims, Angela, Coronado
voting rights
Thank you for your message advising you are looking into lines at polling places - I was appalled to learn in the news that some people had to wait all day in order to vote. I totally agree that is tantamount to denying voting rights, and is totally unacceptable.
Linder, Patty, San Jose
long voting lines
Daer Senator Boxer Thank you for being there for us as you have been for many years. I realize that there are people without addresses and others who may be moving that cannot have a mailed ballot. But for others, why can't we REALLY PUSH having them use mailed ballots. I've been dong it for a few years now. Some might like to socialize with neighbors so they're willing to stay in line. My neighbors are mostly ultra conservative Republicans---they're always angry. I don't miss them one little bit. Another plus---one c an take thier tim eto read the pros and co ns and the resumes of the candidates. It's a perfecxt solution for me.
Parsons, Suzanne, San Diego
Long Voter Lines
Dear Senator Boxer, I greatly appreciate you takling the issue of long voter lines. I volunteered for Elelction Protection in San Francisco this year and was shocked to hear some of the stories from callers regarding voting problems around the country. The problem is only going to get worse when voter ID laws come into play. Thank you so much!
Deborah Holley, Mill Valley
LINE Act
Senator Boxer, Thank you so much for crafting LINE ACT legislation to protect our fundamental right to vote. As a veteran of the US Army, one of my chief motivations for serving was knowing that it was in defense of our basic freedom to vote. I am outraged that we had so many fellow Americans that were disenfranchised during the 2012 election. We cannot deny our citizens the right to vote due to poor planning and execution of the election process. We are the world's leader in promoting democracy around the globe--yet our own federal states fail to properly plan and execute an election. How can we expect other countries to follow our example when we have states that fail in their fundamental duty to execution a fair and judicious election--one I might add that is planned for years in advanced? I commend your action in protecting our fundamental right to vote and am thankful to have you as my representative!
Sean, Oakland
Yes! Thank you for bringing up the subject now. It waited 4 years from the last two elections and it should not wait longer.
Kathie, Cazadero
Back to top
Berryessa-Snow Mountain
Californians respond to my message on Public Lands and Creating Jobs:Thank you for preserving our valued wilderness areas.
Linda, Cerritos
So good to know someone is looking out for things like this.
Sheri, Concord
Thank you for protecting our natural heritage!! Hurray!!
Kara, Davis
You have shown great foresight and have done all our descendents a great favor!
Mary, Berkeley
Wonderful idea. Hope it works.
Marcia, San Diego
As in the past, it is today. Thank you for representing my commitment to preservation of the land. With that said, please don't entirely disallow all vehicles from accessing it. I sometimes need to go there in order to forage for my winter wood, and sometimes kids are just trying to ride their motorcycles for fun. It would be very sad to see the only access by foot, as it is no Yosemite. Thank you for your time,
Craig, Kelseyville
thank you, i appreciate your support for this area
Rick, Davis
I didn't see anything about hunting as recreation. I have hunted in the Snow Mt. area and would not like to lose this area.
James, Sonora
Well, I really wish your efforts were being directed at fixing all these money woes going on in Washington. However, that being said, thank you for your bill on the Snow Mountain conservation area.
J.R, Woodland
I am a lifelong Democrat and one of your supporters. I am concerned with this bill though, are you remembering that those of us in the off-road community can be responsible users of our public lands, along with the hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. Please don't shut us out!
Steve, Napa
U.S.-Israel Security
Californians respond to my message on Strengthening U.S.-Israel Security Ties:I agree that the US needs to maintain its historic alliance with Israel and ensure its existence; however, I ask that you also consider the Palestinians and use your influence to encourage the Israeli government to grant the Palestinians the freedom, land, and resources they need to maintain their existence in the region. Both the Israelis and the Palestinians have the right to exist, but not one at the expense of the other. President Carter was castigated for referring to the situation as apartheid, but isn't that really an apt description of the conditions under which the Palestinians are living?
Michael, Los Altos
I urge the strongest possible support for the US- Strategic Partnership Act. It is not enough to pledge support for Israel in an election period; what counts is support at all times, including immediately after and between elections. It is especially important is not only stockpiling of weapons, but also sharing in intelligence.
David, Encino
Why with the nuclear weapons that Israel has and it's superior military do we have to enter into any security pact with Israel? They don't need our help anymore. This is legislation of guilt for having done nothing during WW II to help the Jews. But now the Israeli government is one as bad as their persecutors. They use similar tactics on the Palestinians that were used against them. When will we stop allowing them to use "Never Again" as a slogan for terrorizing another people? It's time to stop sending billions to Israel and redirect that money to our own people - people living in poverty, people needing healthcare, students needing education.
Les, Sherman Oaks
Please stop supporting Israel. it is a drain on the American people that can never be repaid. Stop selling & giving them arms used to murder their neighbors! They continue to foment war and destruction. We give them far too much support already--please do not increase! Sincerely,
Ken, Saratoga
Vietnam Veterans Day
Californians respond to my message on Honoring Vietnam Veterans: Kudos on the Vietnam Veterans Day. My Father is a Vietnam Veteran. He came back disabled from that war and our Family stood by him. My Mother never divorced him and today he is in my care at 83. When I read about your efforts I was greatly moved. I passed it on to my Dad and his eyes began to water. So I just wanted to say thank you from my Family.
Tomas, Murrieta
These vets need our nation’s recognition, thanks, and government program support as they continue to age. Thank you for taking action for them!
Richard, Carmichael
THANK YOU!! Air Force Vietnam Veteran, Vietnam 1968-69
Bill, Mission Viejo
I really dont think we need another holiday thats what veterans day is about
Leslie, Perris
Thank you Senator Boxer for advocating a day to honor Vietnam Veterans who served in the war in Vietnam and never got recognition from a grateful nation.
Louis, a Vietnam war veteran, Roseville
Thank you so much for helping bring this about. I went to Vn 2/66 until 11/69. First as a Donut Dollie and then worked for the USO. I traveled all around the country and there was such sadness as the men watched the protests around the US-where ever there was a TV. I then worked in Okinawa and the reaction was the same-the young men could not understand the anger and hatred. Many still do not understand but accept and work tirelessly to make sure no other vet is treated the same way.
Jan, Santa Ana
Why are Vietnam Veterans different from the the rest of us? We have a Veterans day already. Do we need a separate one for The Revolutionary War, The Civil War, WW1,WW2 and The Korean War?
Thomas, San Bernardino
Thank you. I remember the times we were told to get out of our uniforms as soon as possible to avoid being spit on and other forms of resentment. We served honorably and were proud of our service. Unfortunately we were alone except for our families. Again Thank You.
Ronald, Montclair
Thank you and the other members of Congress that have the courage to finally give the Vietnam Veterans the respect we deserve. I was drafted into the Vietnam War and ended up serving as a combat infantry squad leader. I have PTSD and cancer from agent orange, so the war is far from over for me and thousands of vets like me. I was also sent information from a Vietnam Vet that the Pentagon has authorized a new "combat-related medal"-The Distinguished Warfare Medal. This new medal is ranked higher than the bronze star and the purple heart which is a slap in the face to true combat vets. I know I speak for many when I urge you to keep the medal but lower its rank. By the way, I was awarded the Soldiers Medal and you would have received a phone call along with this email if the new medal would have been ranked higher than that medal. Thank you for "listening" to an old Vietnam Vet still fighting the war on many fronts at home.
Jay, Culver City
As a Viet Nam era veteran I appreciate your efforts to honor my brothers and sisters who served in Viet Nam. Thank you.
Jack, Moreno Valley
Sure, a national day of honor is fine, but really the problem is that we sent these folks to war and now they come home to a country that provides insufficient care and support. Part of the expense of war is paying the expenses related to bringing the soldiers home again. The idea of a day of honor seems to me to be just another cop out. Thanks.
Richard, Beaumont
I would like to thank you for what you are trying to do for us. Just to let you know I have forwarded this to everyone that I know who was in at that time. Hopefully you will hear from a lot more Vets. I understand what is going on today, but sometimes it gets to me, when I see and hear about everything that our country and all the citizens are doing for the returning service personal and I think back and remember how we were treated it gets to me and I know that most of the Vietnam Vets feel the same way. It's a shame how people have forgotten what happened back then and what was said done to us. I'll stop now because I could go on for a long time, ONCE AGAIN THANK YOU.
James, Riverside
Afterschool
Californians respond to my message Strengthening Afterschool Programs:I say go for it with lots of gusto. We needed programs like this for years, since they took away the other after school programs. It not only gives our kids a positive place to go after school, they can also get the extra help they need with their studies they cannot get at home. The parents don't have to worry about them getting into trouble. If we had programs like this a long time ago, my great niece wouldn't be having the problems she is having now, and getting into trouble with the law.
Ruby, Sacramento
Thank you for thinking in our children and youth. I am a school employee in Santa Cruz and we run after school activities with the support of volunteers. We want our children and youth to be in a safe place and not wondering on the streets. We want our students to learn, feel safe, and build a safer community. Thank you so much again.
Nereida, Santa Cruz
Thank you very much for you efforts to ensure all Americans are treated fairly regarding medical treatment. I am shocked that those with HIV could not get organ donors to save their lives. I can't imagine anyone in our county would have to suffer such devastating discrimination. Keep up the good work.
MarySue, San Diego
HOPE Act
Californians respond to my message on HOPE for HIV-Positive Patients:Thank you very much for you efforts to ensure all Americans are treated fairly regarding medical treatment. I am shocked that those with HIV could not get organ donors to save their lives. I can't imagine anyone in our county would have to suffer such devastating discrimination. Keep up the good work.
MarySue, San Diego
Harrison, Costa Mesa
Thank you for once again leading the way on helping HIV positive Americans.
William and Michael, San Francisco
Bless your heart for trying to make a difference with organ donation from HIV+ individuals. While I believe that is a step in the right direction, I believe it's not the only, nor most important step. A more prudent and desired direction is functional elimination of HIV within individuals that are infected with HIV. Elimination of HIV from within infected individuals would result in significant reductions in health care costs, productivity and the Country's bottom line. Stanford Medical University has shown promising research in creating genetically-modified T-cells that resist HIV. Funding and guidance for such research is what's needed. Thanks for everything you do!
Michael, San Francisco
Both in my profession and in my private life, I have known persons who might well have benefited from organ donation from others who were HIV positive.
Marion, Oakland
Thank you so much for introducing the HOPE Act (HIV Organ Policy Equity Act). My partner James and I are both HIV+. In the worst-case scenario, he would be in need of a liver transplant. Although this has not been a necessity to date, and hopefully is not going to need to occur in the future, I believe that having the possibility available does indeed inspire hope. It did for him when I told him of your news today. In addition to the organ equity act, I am of the strong belief that HIV+ people ought to be able to donate blood for other HIV+ people, provided that they have a high T-Cell count (above 500), and that their viral load is undetectible. This would add to the ever diminishing demand for blood in surgeries in which HIV+ patients need to take blood from the HIV- supply. In addition, prior to testing positive, I donated blood regularly as a part of my civic responsibility. Since testing positive, I am not able to participate, and that lack of service has had a negative impact on my sense of being a part of. HIV+ men and women are normal, productive, employed, and contributing members to society. Inclusion with precautions to protect the HIV- population from exposure to HIV+ blood sources can be easily obtained. Just as the blood type is indicated on the bag, so too can the presence of HIV, the viral load and T Cell count be noted on the bag. Just some ideas. Thanks again.
Gregory, Long Beach
I agree Strongly that HIV donors should be able to Transplant Organs Since I have had One for Years and it has saved my Life from being tied to a dialysis Machine ... I Know How it feels to Live and three Hours or more the times a week and always being stuck with needles and your family afraid to come in and see you being drained of Blood that goes to a machine and cleaned and then returned to you I was lucky to only have Dialysis for Only One year and a half and Lucky to have a match Living alone from my family they love me yes but do not understand how it hurts to be rejected from the family that you loved then be alone when you need them the most and have to do all this alone...Pleas know that now I have a life now a new life and I enjoy every Moment of it and I Know it will end I would like to know that when my new Kidney fails that there is hope of still Living free... God Bless you and please give us all some hope and please do not turn us away we have had enough hurt already with what we have to go through every day But at the end of the day we are just Human Being with feeling just like you
Woodrow, Berkeley
How much will HOPE federal research cost? What are the unintended financial consequences for this benevolent project? As a tax donor, my priority is the national debt. Getting out from under its burden benefits us all, without preference. It's a case of triage. In military triage it's understood you can't save all. It's a painful decision. I hope you see my point. Please, specifically explain your priorities. Should we not meet our obligation to the nation before special needs groups? Respectfully submitted,
Laura, Santa Barbara
Bless you Senator Boxer, nice to see science triumph over fear! I am HIV positive, before my diagnosis I was always listed as an organ donor. In my case, I have maintained an undetectable viral lode since 2003, and my T-Cell are always over 1100, my organs would help save many lives, and to be honest, even the experts agree that folks like me may not even be contagious. Another point you should address, gay men and women are turned away at blood drives simply because they are gay. A friend of mine (O+ universal donor), in a 20 year monogamous relationship, was turned away because he was gay, while several frat boys were accepted - they couldn't even name their last partner, but they were straight. Blood is blood. Anyways I wanted to thank you for all your hard work! Sincerely,
Tim, Carlsbad
Your support of the HOPE Act is a prime example of why you will ALWAYS get my vote. Thank you for understanding that we are all in this together and for always acting like a fellow human being. Cheers,
Patrick, Rohnert Park
Thank you! Another terrific reason why I'm so glad you're MY Senator.
Ginny, San Jose
Sequestration
Californians respond to my message Republicans Block Bill to Stop the Sequester:This is nothing but horrific.
Elisabeth, San Francisco
I was disappointed to hear that legislation was blocked that would have prevented loss of jobs...my entire family stands to be negatively affected. Myself, my husband as well as my working grown children with families. We are not low income, we are upper middle income tax payers and this will affect all of our jobs....politicians just dont understand they are hurting so many hard working americans.
Linda, Ramona
I am a senior citizen whose income from Social Security is below $12.000/year. This is not the goverments fault, but if programs are cut out that affect senior citizens, I will probably have to join the homeless population or better still, move to a third world country in order to live out the rest of my life because Boehner and his cohorts along with the rich refuse to work with the democrats and my President to prevent this catastrophe. This country is no longer a place to be proud to live in. It is fast becoming a country of the haves, and the have nots. My wish is that politician have to live on social security, like me, and not get those fat pensions, and maybe this can work toward balancing the budget.
Barbara, Hawthorne
Are we seriously blaming the Republicans for wanting a balanced budget. How much are we willing to go into debt to keep all of the programs currently being paid for without the income to do so? As an individual, I could not leave my finances in the same mess our government has chosen. Do something about it, and then send me an e-mail that says, "We are working together to fix the mess that egotistical politicians have created. We are realizing that individual citizens should be responsible for the bulk of their problems, and the government cannot, and should not, take care of everyday struggles." Then I will know that sanity has returned to politics. And for the record, I am a liberal Republican, voting for individuals, not parties. This is not a Republican problem, any more than it is a Democratic problem. Work together!
Jackie, Orland
In regards to your February 28th letter blaming the Republicans for not stopping the "Sequester", there is plenty of blame on both sides of the aisle. The blame game is not productive. I expect you to do your job and work with the Republicans to find a compromise.
Gus, San Carlos
I applaud the actions taken today by the the Senate Republicans to block the over- reach of you and your fellow senate democrats. If you are truly interested in coming up with a bill that will pass, try working with your colleague Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky, and please keep an open mind.
James, Santa Rosa
Dear Senator please fight the mega rich agenda of the republican party. they are selfish and ruining our country!!!
John, Modesto
Californians respond to my message Stopping a Threat to Our Nation’s Economy:
Thank you for standing up against a sequester.
Harriet, Manhattan Beach
What can the people do to stop sequestration? A longer term project might be to recall republican tea partiers, but that's not going to do anything in a week. For people who are left leaning, Europe has pretty definitively shown that austerity doesn't work. For some reason right-wing types come to the opposite conclusion.
Diane, Pasadena
The sequester is already hurting our national labs, some of which have already banned professional travel, as well as the technical/scientific meetings sponsored by our professional societies. In turn these meeting decreases are impacting and will impact local economies. Something has to be done to stop this damage to our already in trouble science programs.
Albe, Half Moon Bay
The automatic spending cuts set to take effect March 1 are only 2% accross the board. How much have american families had to cut each year over these years long recession plus have taxes increased at the same time? The Federal government should be looking to cut 10% accross the board and think seriously about having a balanced budget. If congress is going to be serious about responsible spending than a balanced budget ammedment needs to be passed.
John, Lawndale
Let sequester happen. The president himself proposed it recently. It might get our nation back out of it's insane down spiral.
Charles, Whittier
If you don't cut spending and balance the budget, our economy will be in the tank. The country will be bankrupt. Our grand children and great grand children will be relegated to a life of poverty standards.
Jack, Whittier
If you are so very concerned about sequestration, then Pres. Obama should not have drafted the idea and the Democratic Party should not have supported it. Additionally, the ONLY problem with sequestration is the real cuts being made to the Defense Dept. The "cuts" to overbloated non-defense departments are not even real cuts. We both know they are simply a decrease in the increase they received within the last few years. The Senate hasn't passed a budget in 4 years and you and your party are worried about "job losses" that don't exist. STOP playing politics and actually work with the Republicans in making real spending cuts with NO new taxes.
Carolyn, Long Beach
I hope you are working hard to bring our national debt and deficit spending under control. It is no surprise that the economy is as weak as it is with the huge growth of spending by the federal government. I hope you will stand to do what is right and treat taxpayer money with the respect and awe it is due. It is money paid by the producers in the economy and leaders as yourself are entrusted with it. Please treat it as such. I hope you will do your best to find the necessary cuts and bring our budget in balance. We do!
Joseph, Whittier
The continued use of Executive/Congressional created crisis needs to stop. The sequester budget cuts were a compromise proposed by our President who now seems unable to compromise on anything. He has overstepped his "mandate". Let the sequester take effect. We need to get a handle on spending one way or another. Respectfully,
John, La Puente
The sequester debate is not open for discussion. This country has a spending problem not a revenue problem. The Democratic party must stop playing games on all the various issues before this nation and start attempting to solve the problems. Sequester was an idea put forth by President Obama, the Democratic party leader, accept that fact and quit blaming the Republican party. As an independent voter, I am sick and tired of both parties continually jockeying for power position and not solving the country's issues in a bipartisan common sense manner. Common sense does not exist in Washington DC.
James, Santa Clarita
State of the Union
Californians respond to my message on Strengthening the State of Our Union:Thank you for supporting President Obama in the goals he set out in his State of the Union Address. It is imperative that we continue economic growth while addressing the pressing need to combate the causes of climate change. I applaud his efforts to bring sensible gun controls to our country.
Susan, San Diego
I am 100 per cent behind your efforts of gun control. - Immigrants should be allowed to become citizens as soon as possible within certain guidelines, especially their children. I also agree with allowing people to refinance. The restrictions are too tight right now. Having gone through the process, I have seen where there is a lack of common sense in the amount of documentation required. The pendulum has swung too far in the other direction. Climate change is a big problem as well and people are going to rebuild in areas that are at risk for repeating the same devastation that the floods have caused. Continue to fight for these causes. I am behind you and appreciate your efforts! Help the Tea Partiers to see reason!
Lori, Laguna Hills
You have my support on all of Obama's initiatives in his State of the Union address. I strongly believe that without a strong middle class, we will not remain the greatest country that the world has ever seen. And I am a testament of that as a indian immigrant who came with barely nothing 36 years ago and joined the ranks of the upper middle class through hard work and a open society that provided opportunities to succeed no matter your origin, religion, sex, beliefs, cast or creed and cannot deviate from this vision that is in total sync with our dear President Obama. May God bless the U.S.A.
Nayak, Saratoga
Thank-you for your message I do agree with you that our number one priority is revitalizing our economy through job growth. The training of new workers for manufacturing is great but will such jobs be available. The corporations have devastated our economy and peoples lives by moving manufacturing overseas. We must work to repeal some of the policies that have weakened our economy and wrecked havoc of the lives of many people. I live with my boyfriend of eight years and he has not been able to find a job for three years now, as I. I have a college degree and work three jobs all part-time. We are behind in our rent, we both do not nor can afford medical insurance, but thanks to President Obama, we both have Healthy Way, which covers or medical care. I have asthma, major depression and MRSA. He has been waiting over a year for a Colonoscopy. It is very difficult for us and for many people I know. Please do all you can to support us your constituents. I voted for you as I believe in you, your position, your experience and your integrity. Our first priority is job creation, no austerity measures at all, climate change and no corporate money in politics. We the people need solutions yes as you say now.
Christine, Los Angeles
I agree with all the proposals made by the President in his State of the Union Address. I appreciate knowing that you will support the President in his efforts to get his legislation passed by Congress.
Sister Rita, Woodland Hills
Just as a quick response, as a California resident and voter I do NOT at all agree with two of your points. First, government spending always COSTS jobs by burdening the taxpayers, it NEVER is a gain for the economy. Second, global warming is an absurd myth, there is NO SCIENCE that says it is true, because the NUMBERS SAY IT IS NOT TRUE. Growing the economy *is* the highest priority, but this will only be done by bringing back 10,000,000 jobs from China, and halting the importation of cheap immigrants to take jobs away from Americans.
Joshua, Los Angeles
I listened to President Obama's State of the Union address and whole heartedly agree with his agenda. I urge you to encourage your fellow senators to support the President's proposals for: sensible gun control legislation, including banning assault weapons, large magazine clips, and universal background checks; sound immigration legislation reform; increasing the hourly minimum wage; fixing our infrastructure; and insuring that American voters do not have to wait several hours to vote. Thank you for your efforts in support of President Obama's agenda--which is of course, the mandate of those who voted for him by an overwhelming majority.
Susanna, Los Angeles
For me [infrastructure] is one of the most important investments that government can make to build our economy. I believe that this has historically been the reason that we have successfully become the nation that we are. Government investment in infrastructure in the 1930's paved the way for us to be able to supply so much of the material needed during WWII. The building of our Interstate Highway System in the 1950's has kept us ahead of much of the rest of the world economically. Much of our infrastructure has fallen into disrepair because of spending cuts. The next economic expansion into clean energy and increased manufacturing will need highways, roads, railroads, bridges, every part of our infrastructure to underpin that expansion. How will we make the necessary changes and expansions if we cannot move the people and the materials needed to fuel that expansion. Please, strongly support the measures aimed at fixing and improving our current infrastructure. Thank you.
Kevin, Fremont
In responce to your email concerning the President's state of the union address I have the following two comments: Very happy to hear him addressing the climate change problem, which I believe is the most important problem that our country and the world in general share. I do not support the XL pipeline and ask that you vote against it's construction. Secondly, in regards to gun control, I do not favor ANY restrictions to our right to bear arms. People use guns to kill each other, the guns themselves are incapable of any action. I do believe in restricting the mentally ill and convicted felons from obtaining and owning weapons.
Brad, South Pasadena
I hope we have the teeth, nerve, and patience to push through the agenda as brought forward by President Obama. I support our investments in the future through our federal government, state, and local communities. I completed college a bit later than some; my husband completed graduate school in his forties. We own no home, and are paying off much of the debt we accrued while evolving from struggling artists to parents who needed to build more stable and renumerative careers. Yes, we are paying off graduate school. My husband works for the SFPL and I UCSF. Why o why do homeowners get big greater deductions for the interest paid on loan repayments...while student cap out on loan repayments at $2,500? It seems those paying off student loans are even further behind in the American dream than those paying off home loans. Is the general theory supporting tax deduction a notion that home ownership begets societal investment and powers the economy? Then why not graduate degrees? Do they not function similarly? It just doesn't seem logical to support the homeowner, one but only slightly the individuals repaying student loans. This is such a frustrating dynamic & brings me such vexation, especially considering the reiterative effect it has on one's children's and on generations to come. Thank you,
Anne, San Francisco
I agree with you and the President that we need to continue to grow our economy. But not at the cost of our future. I don't want to see my first child, due in June strapped with overwhelming debt before they even get out of high school. PLEASE work with the republicans to reach an agreement on raising taxes AND spending cuts including restructuring the entitlements programs. This can't go on. It is not worth sacrificing so much tomorrow for so little today.
Matt, San Ramon
Lunar New Year
Californians respond to my message Celebrating the Lunar New Year:I very much approve of and appreciate your indication that diversity within our state is a definite plus! It’s a much needed attitude if we people of the world are EVER going to get along!
Diane, San Diego
Thank you for your wishes and our family also would like to wish you and your family a prosperous new year, with lots of love and happiness! Please keep up the good work!!!
Gia, San Jose
Thank you very much for your Lunar New Year Greeting. We wish you and yours a great new year, too. God bless you and America.
Oscar, San Jose
Paycheck Fairness
Californians respond to my message on Fighting for Paycheck Fairness:As a student I kept thinking that by the time I was a parent, women would get equal pay. As a young parent, I was sure it would happen any day. Now that I am a grandparent, I can only hope it will happen for my granddaughter.
Bev, Carmel
I am so thankful for your legislation on fair pay for women. The last forty years, I have worked in a male dominated field of Public Works. My education level is higher, my staff larger and my territory broader than all of the males in our Department. That being said, I am the lowest paid employee. Males with no employees that work in an office and less education make more than I do. I love my job and the people that live in Lompoc; that is the only reason I have not sought employment elsewhere. Approaching retirement age, I hope this happens soon.
Cindy McCall, Lompoc
Thank you for supporting fair pay. It's very important.
Catherine, San Gabriel
Keep up the good fight! These unfair and completely outdated practices have been going on too long!
Janet, La Jolla
Thanks for doing your best to insure that women get more pay. My daughter is a single parent supporting her son and has a great job, but they don't pay her the salary that a man would get if he did her job. So unfair in this 21st Century! We need equal pay for now and for the future.
Hazel, Reseda
Women with children should not earn equal...as for men if they are primary care. Women by default don't deserve the reward people who don't show up to do the worke default ensure less pay by calling out to care for kids. People like me them have to cover for them. Of course they are paid less...deservedly so.
Alicia, Long Beach
That $454,000 lifetime wage differential that women suffer through their working careers -- does that take into account the eventual CONTINUED differential in social security and pension receipts? If it doesn't, then the penalty for being a women is drastically understated. I'm speaking from my personal experience, of course. And I get reminded of it every month for the rest of my life. Thanks for your efforts on our behalf!
Jane, Banning
I thank you for raising your voice publicly and strongly in support of women and their families. I am in a household of two women and so we would feel the pain doubly being paid less than our male counterparts. I know I work very hard with good results and evaluations as does my partner. We deserve to be paid equally. I appreciate all your work in bringing forth legislation that will truly make "more equality."
Angela, Oakland
Thank you, and about time too I have been retired fourteen years now, I worked until I was 65, so when I read about the above I really am pleased. Thank you again and good luck in all you do
Joan, Murrieta
I totally support your equl pay efforts. I am a retired Federal manager (GM-14) who fought for this in the 1980s/90s.
Ardel, Sacramento
Government Shutdown and Default Prevention Act
Californians respond to my message on No Pay for Congress if Government Shuts Down:Thank you so much for introducing this legislation. Congress needs a reality check. If any of their constituents behaved the way they often do, we would not get paid either. Thanks for taking a step to level the playing field, although it is still pretty far off kilter, but at least it is a step in the right direction.
Patrick, Oxnard
The best email I got all day was one from you just a few minutes ago. Working in the defense industry in San Diego, I see it as a threat to our national security to face sequestration in March. Congress needs to take this potential shutdown seriously, and not play political games that endanger our country's welfare. The day-to-day operation of the country is the reason why we elect our officials, more so than pushing ideologies, reacting to recently upsetting news, and proposing new legislation. I believe that was the "referendum" that people voted in the last election. If it takes some additional legislation to remind Congress that it is their responsibility to keep the country running, regardless of whether it is under the perception of 'fiscal responsibility' or 'irrationally exuberant' spending, then I am all for it.
Noah, San Diego
Respectfully, I would like to say that I don't like the idea of not paying the president and congress for default or shutdown of the government. That punishes a lot of congressmen and women, and the president, who are not the obstructionists. And I may be naive, but I hope that there are still some in Congress who are not rich and therefore need their salary. So while this bill is a sledgehammer, I think it is hitting too many of the wrong nails. My husband doesn't like the bill because he says it interferes with the legislative process, weird though it has become. We are both liberals, and happy to be so. Thank you.
Christine, Pasadena
I like your proposed legistation where legislators wouldn't get paid during a government shutdown; however, I doubt something like that would EVER pass. I'd like to see the democrats work with the republicans to cut back on spending. We can't continue just increasing the budget.
Diana, Chino Hills
Our family is SO tired of the Republicans in Congress working together to do nothing but obstruct the work of the Congress. If they do not wish to extend the debt ceiling, then I think it is entirely appropriate for them to forfeit their pay until an appropriate solution is reached. Perhaps, if Sen. Boxer's measure if enacted, the Congress will begin to seen the urgency of coming to a solution about the debt ceiling.
Haage, Lori, Montclair
It is about time that the House & Senate felt the same frustrations as the citizens of this country at their inability to work together so that a budget could be passed in a timely manner. I have been hopeful of the measures Pres. Obama has tried to get passed over the last 4 years, to make this a more equitable country, but extremely angry at the petty, self-absorbed, and greedy motivations that have prevented passage of many of these measures. With respect to the delay in approving a budget, I'm hoping that if it becomes necessary to hold up their pay, that this lack of a paycheck will spur them on. I am 67 years old, and I have never seen such poor performances by these government bodies, especially the House of Representatives. Enough!!
Mary, Santa Clara
I appreciate your concern for the people with Government Shutdown Bill. I hope you define Congress as both the Senate and the House. I would say if you have a legitimate concern for the American People, you would also include the same consequence when the Senate or the House do not submit an annual budget as required by the Constitution. The lack of performance by the Senate to do this in almost 4 years is for more damaging to the American people than anything else our politicans babble about on a daily basis. Unlimited spending and unlimited entitlements to both corporate and individuals is taking us to certain economic ruin. California is the template for the federal program end result. I hope your sincerity will be proven by addressing a fair and balanced penalty for the lack of job performance for the Senate, House, and the President. I encourage you to post these comments on your website.
William, Bakersfield
Thank you so much for putting your own paycheck at risk for a sensible solution to government shutdowns. It is long overdue!
Denise, Ladera Ranch
Thank you for the update and I agree... Congress needs to get the work done that they are paid for.
Michael, Pasadena
I believe you are on to something here, we all need to be responsible for our current situation. I do think we need to hold our elected officials accountable.
Lawrence, Gold River
Thank you for making the kids pay attention to the trouble they will cause and the consequences of their inaction. You always have my support.
Nancy, Sylmar
Thank you for the introduction of this legislation and I appreciate the symbolic gesture that it represents. My criticism of it is that it is entirely symbolic. Since the majority of Senators and Representatives are millionaires, the loss of their Senate or House salaries will have little or no impact on their financial well-being. Their loss of salaries will not have the same impact on their lives as the impact of a government shut-down or default on the Nation's debt will have on the vast majority of the middle-class and poor - The loss of one's Social Security check, the loss of Medicare/Medicaid healthcare, the financial impact on the stock market and one's retirement savings, the loss of a job, the loss of one's house…. With the utmost respect, your constituent,
Ted, Grass Valley
This is a good start; next I would like to see the legislators have the same social security and healthcare programs that the public has. There is an incredible disparity that needs to be addressed but the beneficiaries of these elite programs rarely oppose them. Keep up the good work,
Cele, Novato
I heartily applaud your and Senator Casey's efforts and tenacity in re-introducing this bill. The inaction on this particular responsibility of our elected officials is shameful and does in fact mirror a worker who is refusing to do his/her job.
Angela, Oakland
This bill is long overdue. I support it fully. If I don't do my job correctly, I suffer the consequences.
Ken, Sonora
Thank you Senator Boxer and Senator Casey, for taking a stand and looking out for the American people. Shutting down the government should never be used as a leverage tool for partisan politics and manipulation; and certainly should not be rewarded by payment for failing to do their jobs!
Carlotta, Modesto
I would like to see even stronger measures taken so that our country's representatives can "feel our pain." For example, if health care was only given to Congress while they served, and once out of office they had to go through COBRA, like the rest of us when we loose a job. Or perhaps, if their pension plan was limited to 401Ks and Social Security like so many of the rest of us. I have a feeling they would act a lot more efficiently toward solving the problems with Medicare and Social Security, if that were the case. If they really want to fix Social Security, all they have to do is raise the salary cap. But, I do appreciate all you do for your constituents, so thank you for introducing this very reasonable legislation.
Linda, Sunnyvale
I believe it should go even further to include no approved annual budget, no pay. Since passing our countries annual budget is one of the most important asks, if they fail why should they get paid for failure. This can and should also apply for California's budget process. Respectfully submitted,
Robert, Poway
Accountability is something elected officials have never had to face. What time is better then now. I support your and Senator Casey's efforts Keep up the good work.
Adele, La Jolla
The Bill you propose is well intentioned, but most of Congress is made up of very wealthy people. Going without a paycheck would only be a slight inconvenience, and they would be receiving the monies at a later date; so no real consequences for them.
Diane, San Diego
Senator, I this is a wonderful idea. I got your back!!
Beverly, Carlsbad
I couldn't believe what we Americans have been wishing since I can't remember when is really going to be presented in Congress. I checked my email to make sure it wasn't "spam" and pinched myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming. Please hit those who clog the wheels of progress in the pocket book where they are used to hitting us.
Diane, South San Francisco
And we both know that this proposed bill will never see the Senate floor for a final vote.
Leo, Oxnard
I want to thank you for your current initiative to break the legislative stalemate and get this year's congress session moving. Now that you are identifying yourself as a States-person with moxy, I suggest you propose a truly meaningful bill. Revert your retirement plan to Social Security. Revert your Health plan to the Health plan legislation you recently passed. Not the "opt-out" provision, the real plan. In essence the business world calls this "eating your own dog food". I look forward to the bold new direction you can take congress in this term.
Dave, San Jose
Homeless Veterans
Californians respond to my message on Helping to End Veteran Homelessness:As a long-time supporter of Swords to Ploughshares here in San Francisco, I was pleased to receive your email about the legislation you introduced that will further support our HOMELESS!,
Pam, San Francisco
KUDOS for your effort to help the homeless veterans. As a retired Navy, Viet Nam era veteran, it breaks my heart to see so many guys my own age, and some older and some much younger, that are homeless for any number of reasons. I also believe the benefits we were promised when we were drafted or enlisted, should never, ever be cut or taken away. I watched as my own father, a WWII MIA/POW, suffer with some of the physical impairments as a result of his service, and later realized he also had mental issues as well. Fortunately, he was able to cope with his problems until late in his life, and had to sell his house, the house I was born in, in order to get the care he needed. He was one of the fortunate ones, compared to so many others. I do thank you for your efforts, and for your service to our country.
Michael, Moreno Valley
That's a great idea about putting a space on our income tax to support our veterans' programs to reduce homelessness. My dad was a vet from WWII so this is very important to our family. I hope your legislation passes.
Dolores, Palm Desert
Thank god someone is thinking about them. They thought about us when they were serving this country so why should we forget about them.
Laura, Moreno Valley
Your concern about veterans homelessness is commendable and appropriate. However, a check off box to make voluntary donations is an insult and an outrage!!!! We need a surtax on income that is mandatory. Low income people may not be able to spare much but a ten percent tax on all income over $100,000 per year to fund veteran housing and healthcare would be totally appropriate. Our veterans should not be dependent on charity! Tax payers owe them the care they need including medical and psyhcological! It is not a charitable act to care for our veterans. It is a duty and an obligation! Make congressional pay dependent on a check off contribution. Make veteran care a mandatory obligation!
Al, Mill Valley
I want to thank you for your efforts in honoring our Vietnam Veterans I myself being a Vietnam Veteran that returned home to a ungrateful nation, I am now scarred with PTSD and the horrible memories of that terrible War. I think you are a wonderful person for what you are doing for our country and our Veterans.
Tom, Mira Loma
While I applaud your desire to help our veterans. I am sure you know that through churches and other non government organizations there are many ways one can help without giving money to the government. It is painfully obvious that the government does not know how to allocate dollars without wasting most of them. You might not admit that publicly but you know it is true. That fact has nothing to do with political parties it is the nature of the beast. I don't see why we need the government to spend yet more money to more public employees to do something that the community can do far more effectively.
Steve, Yucaipa
Does the donation become deductible? Who decides where the money goes? It seems like a nice thought, but excess tax legislation. Currently legitimate organizations that help homeless veterans receive donations that are tax deductible. My veteran brother has been homeless, and I appreciate the services that he received.
Robert, Murrieta
Great move! I will instruct my accountant to check this box and contribute from our funds on this year’s tax return. Thank you. I'm a vet and although not homeless I understand some of their problems.
John, Goleta
Thank you for all that you do to help fight for our homeless veterans. For years I lived two blocks from the VA hospital in San Francisco. Every day I talked to homeless vets. I heard about their struggles, I heard how many were denied housing because of addiction issues. I talked to men who were in the trenches, who saw terrible things, who won medals. I heard their poetry and their songs. Every day I got angrier and angrier that these men were on the streets. More so because, once on the streets, they become throw away people. I hear "not my problem" and "get a job." Thank you Barbara Boxer for consistently shining a light on this issue. No one should have to live in deep poverty and illness. And for us to be shouting "Support our Troops!" while so many vets live this way is just appalling to me. Thank you.
Marsh, San Francisco
I think it is awesome that you are supporting veterans now to try to stop them from being homeless. I am married to a Vietnam vet who still remembers being spit upon by his fellow Americans when he returned after two tours in Vietnam. While having his ischemic heart disease accepted as a presumption of agent orange he has to receive that small extra amount of money cause we are married… My husband is not alone in his belief that the remaining Vietnam vets will be dead before they are adequately compensated.
Sherry, Moreno Valley
Finally something I can back a Democrate in a cause. We donate what little we can to the paralized Vets, but had no idea how to help others. our troops go through hell and get so little help and support. I am a registered Republican but will support you 100% on this. by the way we are not vets and no one in my immediate family is a vet.. Thank you
Jean, Tehachapi
I agree we need to extend more help to our veterans who are homeless. We need to start with Mental Health first. They did their best to help our nation. The war in the middle east will never end. We need to bring our men and women home and provide jobs for them. We need to help them in every way possible.
Linda, Sun City
Why just Veerans? What about children? Veterans already have a life where if they are homeless they cannot assimilate into society and have other issues. Children are our future and we need to focus on that.
Michael, Temecula
With prices going up, and buying power going down every day, where do you expect to find taxpayers who would choose to donate more money to the government so they can do the job they should have been doing all along with the trillions they are collectinbg and mismanaging? Seriously, this veteran would first like to see more fiscal responsibility with the trilliions you have been entrusted with. You may want to consider such things as a balanced budget amendment for one... Since I have a choice, I know of a number of charities that I believe will do a more responsible job with my money. And several of them help veterans too. Respectfully,
George, Yucaipa
Roe v. Wade
Californians respond to my message on the 40th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade:Please continue to work for maintaining women's rights. On the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade we cannot sit idle while extremist people are pushing their agenda of pecking away at my and my daughters' rights. Please don't give up on the progress we have made. Keep up the fight!
Amanda, San Diego
As a Republican woman, I commend you on working to continue women's rights to health and contraception. I am very opposed to restricting women's access to abortion and their right to choose.
Caroline, Malibu
I am 62 years young & remember what it was like during the 60's & 70's for women. It feels as though the Republicans and right-to-lifers are trying to push us back into the Dark Ages. I voted for you and authorize you to keep fighting for women to be able to rule "Our Bodies, OurSelves".
Gay, San Jose
Please keep up your good work preserving a woman's health rights especially defending the Roe vs Wade decision from erosion. These fundamental rights impact so many woman, at all socio-economic levels, not to mention the men in these women's lives.
Beth, Palos Verdes Estates
Thank you for your steadfast support of Roe vs. Wade and other women's issues. I depend on your vote. You would think after 40 years.... It must get tiring to fight the same battles over and over again. But, apparently it is necessary.
Saundra, San Dimas
What about all the 55 million babies' lives ended by abortion and women who died or were irreparably damaged by safe legal abortions?
Anne Marie, Oakland
A woman's right to choice is important to me and I appreciate your support and hard work in keeping Roe vs Wade intact. This is not an easy decision for women, even couples to make, but the choice must remain an option for women in California and throughout the nation. Keep up the good work.
Janet, Alameda
I heartily applaud you for hanging in there and fighting while draconian legislative measures increasingly hack away at women's rights to take charge of our own bodies. This is not just about abortions. It is about access to valid health information and care and contraception. State legislators bully their way into women's clinics ordering care workers to deliver frightening and thoroughly unscientific messages to intimidate the patient and enforce expensive, unnecessary medical procedures. The dwindling number of clinics makes access impossible for desperate and poor women. I am 71 years old and shocked that in 2013 women are still considered a bothersome underclass instead of grown-ups who earn wages, love, and are capable of making our own decisions. These appallingly uneducated, mean-spirited legislators have blood on their hands. We can only hope our younger generation will vote them out of office.
Susan, San Rafael
I just read your praise of Roe vs. Wade. You forgot to mention the 50 million young humans who have been killed for financial and convenience reasons since it was passed.
Lee, Susan, Walnut Creek
roe/wade was a major victory for women freeing us from the tyranny of our bodies for the first time, legally! we must not lose this hard won protection, under any circumstances!!
Donna, West Sacramento
That explains why Congress can't meet deadlines. They concern themselves with unnecessary items instead of taking care of real problems. After reading your last email I wondered if it was 2013 or 1913.
Gisela, San Fafael
Thank you for your loud, clear voice on the importance of Roe vs Wade. Please continue to push for the expansion of womens healthcare and to push back with the extremists that would take away womens rights to make their reproductive healthcare decisions.
Frederic, San Francisco
I appreciate and support your stand regarding our rights as women to make choices for ourselves. Repealing Roe vs. Wade would put women at risk of death and disease at the hands of unlicensed doctors and swindlers in unhealthy conditions. It is my strong belief that abortion should not be a government issue but a personal one. We as women should have the right to take charge of our bodies and our lives.
Karen, Studio City
Dr. Gregory Polito placed a paid statement in our local paper, The Whittier Daily News, today, on the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, entitled "A Concerned Citizen's Thoughts on the 40th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade, 01-22-2013". I would respectfully ask that, in the interest of looking at the issue of abortion from both sides, you read the entire article… My prayer is that you will reconsider your position on abortion. It is wrong in God's sight, and it is wrong if we call ourselves caring human beings. Thank you for all you do for us in the other areas of your service in the Senate. You have a difficult, complex job there. Your hard work is appreciated. God bless you!
Linda, Whittier
Please help keep Roe vs Wade strong. All women should have a choice over their own bodies!
Margaret, Long Beach
There will be abortions done regardless of the law. The purpose of Roe vs. Wade was to save womens lives. One statistic I learned by an MD … was that before RvW, abortion deaths were the leading cause of womens dying.
Marvellee, Long Beach
Thank you so much for being in the forefront of Women's rights! Our generation fought so hard to acquire these rights, only to see them constantly under attack by right wing extremists. The irony is that these groups are usually PRO-GUN and PRO-WAR!!!
Clea, Canoga Park
I fully support keeping Roe v. Wade legal and reject any restrictions the Republicans try to put forth. As pointed out in a recent New York Times article, women have searched for ways to terminate pregnancies for thousands of years. Until the passage of Roe v. Wade those procedures often times ended up with the woman dying. It is vital that the U.S. continue to provide safe medical procedures to women. Women have a right to choose what course their life will take. No woman wants to have an abortion, but sometimes it is the only alternative. Please fight to keep Roe v. Wade legal.
Deirdre, Tiburon
Thank you for your articulate tribute; it has been such an important part of women's rights and must remain strong.
Pat, Saint Helena
Wholeheartedly agree with your position on Roe v. Wade! Keep government out of the bedroom, bathroom and doctors offices!
John, Seal Beach
It saddens me to think that you are my "representative" in the Senate because you certainly do not represent my views. How sad to see how happy you are to condone the murder of the unborn. And make no mistake Ms. Boxer, these are babies. How you can be so proud of something so disgusting amazes. I'm also sick and tired of hearing about this war on women. If anyone is waging war on women, it is you.
Alice, Burbank
As the former President of the California Abortion Rights League, I want to thank you for your January 22nd email. Thank you for your loyal and articulate stand on women's reproductive freedom. We need you now more than ever.
Joannie, Los Angeles
It makes me sad to read the attacks on women's health that we worked so hard to get covered. My daughter's generation has no idea what my generation went through to fight inequality in pay, our bodies, our jobs, the glass ceiling etc. Even though it has not completely become equal with men, it is closer than ever before.
Joyce, Simi Valley
This anniversary recalls the millions of babies who have been and continue to be murdered because of RoeVs Wade. I realize many people choose to hide their eyes to this truth, but it's real, and I plan to ALWAYS tell that truth. You do NOT represent me.
Cynthia, Sylmar
Thanks Barbara..keep fighting the crazies.
Susan, Lakewood
Pinnacles National Park
Californians respond to my message on the Pinnacles National Park:As a native Californian and Dean of Science and Research Collections at the California Academy of Sciences, I would like to extend my congratulations and sincere appreciation for your authoring the bill to designate the Pinnacles as a National Park. I am so pleased that President Obama has signed this bill into law. The Pinnacles are a remarkable part of our California and national biological heritage. Their elevation to National Park status is a great achievement for all Americans. Thank you again for your unwavering support of the environment and protection of our natural heritage. In these times, when people point to the failure of Congress to accomplish meaningful legislation this is an especially important accomplishment.
Terry, San Anselmo
Thank you so much for doing such a good job caring about our environment. It feels so good to be proud of my representative. Thank you for honoring the Pinnacles as our newest National Park.
Donna, San Diego
Is this wise? If you will please check, The Pinnacles area has been the epicenter of hundreds, if not thousands of earthquakes in the last 6 years. Has this fact been taken into consideration? If it has, I would like to know what data were considered.
P., Atascadero
Great news! It's such a beautiful place. Thanks for all your hard work.
Janice, Vallejo
Thank you for your continuing efforts to ensure that the beautiful, natural habitats of California are protected. I appreciated your notification, because these important bills often go unnoticed by the media! Keep up the good work!
Arlene, Beaumont
It's good to know that future generations will be able to enjoy this beautiful place.
Thomas, Laguna Beach
Thank you for sponsoring the bill making Pinnacles National Monument into America?s 59th National Park. We visited Pinnacles last year after more than 25 years and it was a very worth while trip. The area's renowned beauty and diverse wildlife, unique volcanic rock formations, and a home of the critically endangered California condor is worthy of NP status.
Felix, Carmichael
I have visited there twice, taking my grandson the second visit, both loving the enormous rock formations, forest . . . and renewed spirit from the experience. The area is worthy of national park status and the diligent care, financial support gained by this status which will also attract a greater number of people to receive the health benefits of being outdoors, hiking, enjoying wildlife and forests. And, yes, more people also benefit surrounding businesses.
Maurita, Templeton
As a Parent, Granparent, educator, camper, rock climber, and lover of Nature; Thanks So Much for pursuing and doing this for future generations.
Stephen, Oceanside
Millions of Americans--today and for generations to come--will enjoy the beauty of Pinnacles NATIONAL PARK because of the courage and foresight of "America's Senator", the Honorable Barbara Boxer !
Duncan and Betty, McKinleyville
Thanks for all you do to help out in our environment in California and elsewhere. Your actions with the Land and Water Conservation Fund have already made quite a difference in the Sierra Nevada. Keep up the good work!
Fred, San Francisco
I was researching parks in California when I saw that there was a new one, Pinnacles National Park in the Bay Area. Then I got your email, saying that you had proposed the bill. I want to thank you for helping establish this important park, especially when the former state government has identified almost 50 sites for closure. I hope this can be turned around, as California has a unique and important culture, both natural and man-made, that is important to preserve.
Megaen, Newcastle
Mt. Andrea Lawrence
Californians respond to my message on Mt. Andrea Lawrence:Thank you for honoring Andrea in a way that would have made her so proud. She was a dear friend and often referred to herself as my "second mother." I wish more people knew how hard she worked and how much she accomplished in protecting the Eastern Sierras. She was a fascinating, intelligent woman with a fierce determination and vision. She so very much deserves this recognition. My wish is more people would take her message of conservation to heart and continue in the work to which she dedicated her life.
Kerry, Albany
How good it is to see such a wonderful athlete and conservationist honored by having a mountain named after her. I am old enough to remember very well her accomplishments---and also to have met her a number of times. The old skiing community was rather a small one, and we all knew each other. To us she was Andie Mead---always. Thank you for taking this step.
Suzanne, San Francisco
Californians respond to my message on Mt. Andrea Lawrence (12/21/2012):
Thank you for your work to honor Andrea Lawrence. What a fitting tribute to a woman of such stature. I had the pleasure of working with her for a couple of years on the Mono County Democratic Committee. As the Sierra Nevada inspires, so does she. Mt. Andrea Lawrence will carry forward the legend and the legacy.
Leslie, Palm Desert
Nice of you to send a note about passage on naming MT Andrea Lawrence. It seems to be a bit misguided with all the issues with the fiscal cliff. Let's fix the country first.
Vin, Livermore
I'm so happy that such a wonderful and deserving woman as Andrea is getting a mountain of recognition for the many selfless works she accomplished over her long, amazing lifetime. While it's tempting to bring attention to the medals she won for the United States at the Olympics when she was a very young woman, she continued to do as much as she could to help make the Eastern Sierra a treasure for our country with her work on the Board of Supervisors as well as other activities. She is sorely missed by those who knew her. Thank you for your efforts to make this designation possible in her memory.
Larry, Oakland
National Marine Sanctuaries
Californians respond to my message on Protecting the Northern California Coast:Thank you! I am so glad you have had our interests in mind for so many years. Good job!
Priscilla, Sherman Oaks
I cant thank you enough for your efforts on this issue. It is the very best thing the government has done in a long time!! Thanx,thanx,thanx...
Libby, Healdsburg
I just read your message about expanding Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries. These are wonderful, magical areas of California's coast and I am so grateful that you are fighting to protect them.
Shirley, Menlo Park
Thank you so much for continuing to work toward protecting our natural environment. I sincerely appreciate your working with Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey to expand the Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank national Marine Sanctuaries.
B, Rocklin
Do you REALLY think that this is a GOOD IDEA? Making that area a Natl . manument is not what is needed for Calif . Calif already has safe guards in place to protect its waters .. Coast Guard .. Bilge water dumping and other pollution DFG protects the wlid life and fish . This idea is just a redunancy of policys that are already in place . And what of the residents who make their living ? What effect does this have on them ?.. The damage this can cause is far more reaching than its feel good efects .. Thanks for reading ..
Charles, Santa Rosa
While some may find fault with the attempts to preserve and protect marine life, I applaud the initiative. To set aside 15% of the marine habitat to conserve fish species is a modest step. More may be needed. Thank you.
Franklin, Santa Rosa
Wonderful news of the extension of the Marine Sanctuaries here in Northern California. Thanks so much for you efforts in that area! Sincerely,
Doug, San Diego
Good work, Senator Boxer. Thank you for standing up for the environment and California. Generations to come will reap the benefits. Best regards,
Joe, Sebastopol
I'm thrilled about the news of the expansion of the marine sanctuary along the Sonoma and Mendocino coast of Northern California! Thank you for your work towards that. As a native Californian, several generations back, I deeply value the beauty and positive impact on people and planet of our natural environments. I have great appreciation for your efforts to preserve as much of it as possible. Sincerely,
Sarah, San Diego
Thank you for your work protecting the marine coastal environment. Amidst the fears of war and economic woes, such an advancement on the "home front" is inspiring.
Robert, Laguna Beach
Thank you for your successful efforts to expand the Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries. I always knew you were the real deal!
Robles, Roger Jr, Petaluma
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Congo Atrocities
Californians respond to my message on Combating Violence in Congo:I want to thank you for applying pressure on the white house to intervene in the violence that is being perpetrated on Congolese women and men. I wonder how and from who, the so called "rebels" purchase their arms and bullets that inflict such wanton pain and suffering on the Congolese people. On the radio I recently listened to a woman author and activist Lee Ann DeRus who is working to help heal women brutalized by violence in the Congo. I was amazed by the stories she told of great resilience and healing among brutalized women and child soldiers. We must do everything we can to foster their safety and continued healing by helping to stop the ongoing violence. Please continue to keep this issue up front in the white house circle of international policy. Our sisters and brothers in the Congo are counting on you. Joyful Holidays
Saoirse, Oakland
Thank you so much for leading a bipartisan group to urge immediate action to help end the sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It horrifies me every time I hear about it and am glad that you and your colleagues are willing and able to do something in our name.
Mathilde, Santa Cruz
Thank you for your efforts to reduce the violence in the Congo and encourage our nation to take a stronger stand for human rights there.
Sylvia, Berkeley
Thank you for speaking on this important topic. I am proud that you are championing this important issue for the health of women, men, and children in Congo, but also here in the US. Violence against women, especially sexual violence is completely unacceptable, and I am proud that you are my senator.
Alma, Covina
I understand that other countries are having problems, HOWEVER DON'T YOU THINK THAT THE POLITICIANS OF THIS COUNTRY SHOULD BE FOCUSING THERE ATTENTION 100% TO THE PROBLEMS OF THIS COUNTRY BEFORE GETTING INVOLVED IN OTHER COUNTRIES BUSINESS.
Michael, Menifee
Absolutely agree with you! I know Congo's people. I have been there. They need support from America. Good luck!
Richard, Los Angeles
While I am against sexual violence, wherever it occurs, I strongly oppose the President taking any 'action' in the Congo. I do not know the wording of your document but I would not support anything but diplomatic action. We are still extricating ourselves from Iraq and Afghanistan and I do not support any excursions into any other countries - the Congo and Syria included.
Bill, San Diego
I wanted to thank you personally for your concern and for the steps you are taking for a more stable region for the people of the Congo.
Sandra, Richmond
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The NRA and Gun Violence
Californians respond to Senator Boxer on the NRA, Gun Violence, and School Safety:Thanks for leading this fight. We are gun owners, support 2nd Amendment, HOWEVER support your efforts with assault weapons ban, reduce magazine sizes, close gun show loophole, national registry. THANK YOU!
Ellen, Poway
Keep up the fight against the NRA! Why not impose a steep tax on purchasers of assault weapons so they pay for the extra security? The NRA argues that they have the right to bear arms, but what about responsibility? Sure the vast majority are responsible but unfortunately they have carry the burden of those that aren't.
Eric, South San Francisco
I am a strong believer in the 2nd Amendment and do NOT want to see my rights trampled on. While what happened in Newtown is very saddening, taking away the gun rights of law-abiding citizens will not solve anything. Criminals that want to commit crimes with guns will find a way to do it regardless of what laws are in place. (They would probably rob gun stores, rob homes, or get them from somewhere else). Please Senator, do not let my 2nd amendment rights be destroyed by useless laws that won't protect our future- our children.
Jen, Murrieta
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. This is the second amendment. It specifies that the right to bear arms must be part of a well-regulated militia. How many of members of the NRA are part of a well-regulated militia? One spokesman for the NRA said that we have to have guns if we need to overthrow a tyrannical government. In that case, which is ridiculous, a well ordered militia would be formed. Another interesting thing is that historically the NRA position was in regulating the ownership of guns: being sure everyone was well-trained and the guns were in the right hands. No one in the US needs automatic assault weapons. If hunters are using them, the animals don't stand a chance and it's not a sport; it's a massacre. I think NRA's opposition to gun control is offensive.
Cynthia, Carmichael
I know this will be like talking to the wall, but we don't need more gun restrictions, just enforce the laws we already have. We Need more people control, not gun control. The 2nd amendment is not about hunting, it is about equal defense.
David, Oakland
Why not use the DMV model to license gun owners and register guns on a continual basis? Like the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Department of Firearms for each state would issue learner permits, then after 6 months, a test would be given and then a license issued to the gun owner. Every time a gun is purchased by the licensed gun owner, it would need to be registered and fees paid every year that it is owned. If the owner of the gun sells it, the new owner would need to re-register the gun and pay the fees. The owner's license would be renewed periodically (just like a driver's license). The license, registration and fees required would certainly curb the proliferation of guns in this country. And the states could use the money. Also the new Department of Firearms in each state would create jobs.
Joyce, Merced
It would also be an appropriate time to stand up for non-violence, e.g, ban on assault weapons and massive sales of ammunition, as well as real background checks, waiting periods, and proof of knowledge of how to operate a gun and gun safety. After all, we require registration of cars (and access to registration data by law enforcement), as well as licensing of all drivers only after they have passed driving tests. Nobody considers this a slippery slope leading to the confiscation of cars. Nobody regards the law that trucks must have appropriate signage if carrying flammable or explosive materials a slippery slope toward abolishment of the trucking industry. Are vehicles more dangerous than guns? Do individuals have to learn to drive but shooters just somehow know how to do it? Should individuals be held responsible for damage they do with cars but not guns? When did we get this crazy? Your sane constituents are counting on you.
Margaret, Berkeley
I know that some of the community feels that these kinds of gun laws should be passed so that they can feel more safe about sending their children off to school. NOTHING should make parents feel more safe. Killers walk the streets everyday. That won't change with new gun laws. I see the problem just as clearly as anyone else does. I am an advocate for guns…. I am asking as a concerned citizen, that you vote NO on ALL of these frivilous proposals. There are other ways of solving this problem. Thank-you very much for reading.
Candace, Mountain View
It seems that you have already spoken out about gun control. I want to support that effort. We need to follow the ideas of Joe Biden and Barack Obama in this. I especially think there is no reason for anyone to have an assault weapon. They are only to kill other human beings. I do think that people who pass rigorous background checks should be able to have handguns for protection and hunting rifles. But that is all!!! Thank you for considering these proposals.
JoAnne, Vallejo
My wife and I both urge you to support the President's gun control measures. Citizens do not need assault rifles to defend themselves, they should be banned and turned in for destruction. A ten round magazine, as required by California law, should be standard throughout the US. If that's a problem with the Second Amendment, then we urge you to initiate a repeal of that amendment. We have too many paranoid citizens who should not be allowed to possess military weapons. We are not afraid of our government, we are afraid of these nut cases.
Robert and Carolyn, Fallbrook
I am continually dumbfounded by the opposition to stricter gun control, horrified by the escalating gun violance and frustrated by the inexplicable arguments from the gun rights side which seem to defy logic and common sense. I am so proud of our President for representing the rights I believe in and his honest and sincere efforts to force action in this debate. I have attempted to keep an open mind, listened to NRA lobby positions and talked to friends who are gun owners, to make every attempt at understanding their side of the debate. Yet as the rhetoric heats up, the speeches and positions taken by the "gun rights" side sound more hollow, lacking foresight and become more narrow and self serving with each passing day. I am fully confident our Founding Fathers would be equally horrified by the violence and killing precipitated by the easy access to hand guns. They would be appauled by the selling of semi-automic weapons with large ammunition clips. The Second Amendment to the constitution, written and debated almost 250 years ago could not have been meant to give rise to allowing the ease of access to such powerful and deadly weapons into the hands of people ill equipmed to even manage their every day lives and social interactions, let alone be responsible enough to handle a deadly weapon. The President is correct in forcing action and I fully believe the public is behind this. We must maintain a stronger voice and a voice that speaks louder than the vocal minority of the NRA lobbiest. Please continue to work as hard as you can, to take action and work to inact legislation that creates sensible safeguards, safe guards that will help to protect my family, friends and neighbors and does not bend to a vocal and illogical minority with a skewed sense of what is right. thank you for your support.
Lewis, Encinitas
Lots of good debate in the media, in government, and in local conversation on this issue due in part to recent tragedies. It's all going nowhere unless we can find a way to talk to people who hold to the notion they are safer with guns. Safer from crime, safer from government tyranny, safer from wild animals- you choose. Those folks may feel safer "armed", but even if you believe a gun will protect you, that feeling comes at the expense of a functioning civil society. I'd be happy with basic sensible gun control measures. Ban assault weapons. Let every adult who wants to own a gun, as long as its registered, and as long as the owner passes a periodic background check (not just a one time check). How can that be unreasonable, except to those with criminal intent? And if you're gun is not secured, and if its stolen and later used in a crime, you bear a portion of responsibility for the damage done due to your negligence. We are all capable of stupid or senseless acts, regardless of whether we are law abiding or "responsible" citizens. There is no test for lifelong sanity. To argue otherwise is naive.
Brian, Los Angeles
The speech from the NRA was pathetic and insulting. They want to create a police state so they can sell more guns. Please be strong about gun control legislation...we must get these assault weapons out of stores, gun shows and the black market. We must ban cartridges and insist on background checks. I am grateful that you represent my thoughts. Keep up the good work.
Pam, Carmel Valley
I am truly disgusted with the violence due to automatic weapons, and the ease of obtaining large quantities of ammunition. Please add my vote to ban automatic assault and hand weapons and ammunition, and require strict licensing requirements for gun owners. Remove mail order access to minors, and educate the existing owners on gun safety and storage in locked places.
Frank, Sebastopol
I am a social worker, educator, union leader, veteran, and gun owner. I support the entire Bill of Rights, including the 2nd Amendment. I am concerned with the proliferation of gun laws that serve only to limit the rights of law abiding gun owners. I do not believe that my rights should be limited due to the horrific act of a mentally ill person. I do agree that we need to do more to protect our schools. We also need to devote more resources to serve those with mental illness. I am with you on these points. However, I do not agree that curtailing my rights is part of a reasonable solution.
Michael, Weaverville
The apology given by the NRA's president was hollow and only demonstrated how self serving the current leadership of the NRA is. The nation needs strong and reasonable gun control laws. I would like to suggest a regime based on federal aviation regulations. Like gun ownership the use of the nation's air space is a right guaranteed in the Constitution. A reasonable series of ratings could then be established so that the rights of gun owners to own various types of guns and the rights of the rest of the public to safety can be assured. That's my contribution in this debate. I hope that it can help.
Keith, San Jose
Thank you for speaking out about addressing the issue of gun control. I would like you to speak more directly and strongly about the need to BAN assault weapons and clips. No civilian needs a gun that shoots automatically and continuously. Please be a leader in defining what the second amendment means in the twenty-first century.
Sharon, Palo Alto
I've had it! The killings in CT put me on a crusade against assault weapons. I'm sick and tired of the old mantras "guns don't kill people" and "now is not the time". If not now, when? I'd like to see a permanent ban on all assault weapons and large clips, a forced recovery of all assault weapons and large clips, a strengthening of registration rules and application process for ALL other weapons, an annual licensing fee for ALL weapons that goes toward mental health, and insurance paid by all weapon owners that gets paid out to any victim or victim's family. It's time to get serious, deadly serious.
David, Atwater
I am a retired high school English teacher. I spent 37 years in the classroom and know what it is like to take responsibility for the students that were in my charge. I know how vulnerable my school was even though updated security measures were in place. There is no way to be safe enough unless we begin to change our outdated, senseless laws and social practices. I am ashamed that our society has become so violent. People like me have paid only lip service to the need to change laws regulating war weapons. We now need to act and act until some real change takes place. We cannot just shake our heads, shed a tear and move on. Not this time. Enough is enough. Please know that I support your bill and pray that others like me will act in like manner. We must stand up to the ignorant and greedy gun czars who have ruled our world.
Elizabeth, Ontario
Please help do something about the proliferation of guns in our society. We need a ban on assault weapons and magazine clips that hold multiple rounds of ammunition. It's time that the NRA and other powerful gun lobbies be stopped.
Audrey, Lagunitas
Thank you for your recent email about gun violence. Thank you also for supporting stronger legislation to control gun violence. I am a gun owner myself, but I believe that there are just way too many guns in America, and they are not sufficiently controlled. I don't see why they can' t be at least as controlled as motor vehicles, with more extensive background checks than currently, and yearly renewals of the registration. I also think that criminal laws should be amended so that any crime committed with gun involvement should require much stiffer penalties. I think that the location and ownership of every single gun America should be known and tracked by the ATF. The red herring about better mental health treatment is ridiculous. No mental health provider can possibly be expected to know what a patient may be capable of except perhaps in extreme cases. That type of legislative response to a tragedy like this could actually keep some people from seeking treatment. Better security at schools may be a somewhat effective, though very sad, response to the recent tragedy. The root cause of all this senseless violence, though, is quite obviously the availability of so many guns. Thank you again for your work in this area.
John, El Sobrante
I regretfully contact you on such a matter concerning the law abiding citizens of the United States Second Amendment Rights, directly after such a horrific tragedy in Newtown CT. Senator Boxer the answer to this tragedy is not to ban fire arms from law abiding citizens. If a drunk driver kills someone in an accident, do we take the privilege of driving from the rest of the United States Citizens? No. We have made laws more severe to those that have broken the law. Senator Boxer, as Senator to your State, the people of your state elected you to keep our laws within the Constitution, preserve our Constitution, and keep our rights secure. I pray you strongly reconsider the fire arms ban on moderate capacity fire arms like the AR 15. Such a matter is very important in your state. I will be following your voice on this matter when it comes a crossed Legislation, as well as the majority of your constituents. Please uphold the Constitution.
Jorge, Bakersfield
Thank you for speaking out. Now create and pass legislation for Gun Control.
Joannie, Los Angeles
Although it is very sad that a crazy person killed children and teachers, the rifle used was not the culprit. Crazy people cannot be allowed to have access to guns. Secondly, creating gun free zones, encourages evil people to attack those places, knowing everyone is unarmed. Chicago and Washington DC are pretty much gun free and have them most gun violence in the country. Dallas, Tucson, and Reno have the most armed citizens, and also have the lowest gun crime. Law makers don't understand this. Armed citizens are never victims. Everywhere we disarm people, we have only criminals with fire arms. It's time to have someone armed at schools, on campus's and in our malls.
Mike, Rocklin
Thank you for being in the forefront in the efforts to enact sensible gun control legislation.
Shari, South San Francisco
Senator, please reconsider your position on banning military type weapons? The founding fathers considered this right necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to bear arms shall not be infringed! Consider US vs. Miller, 1938, US gov't argued military type weapons are "militia" weapons, protected by the 2nd Amendment. A free state requisite is a well informed, politically engaged and well armed citizenry, capable of rebellion against future tyranny, or otherwise illegal militarized police state. The people need military weapons, simply put, hunting rifles and hand guns are no match for fully automatic weapons and military hardware any police state legally possess. Criminals only victimize the weak and defenseless, not the strong or the armed! Do not sentence the American people to a potential future tyranny because A minority of criminals use these weapons to commit their heinous acts of violence against defenseless citizens. Do not use this crisis as an excuse to disarm American citizenry and further strip away our Condtitutional rights in the name of protecting us! We do not wish to be protected against terrorism or criminals by dismantling our Constitutional rights! I further ask that the Hugh's amendment aka, Gun Control Act of 1986, be amended to permit automatic weapons made after 5/19/1986, be legally transferred for civilian use, so that non-wealthy citizens can also bear these arms, under NFA regulations. I do not argue against rigorous measures or precautions taken to keep guns out of the hands of criminals or the mentally il.. Perhaps the press is to blame for making gun criminals infamous and fanning copy cat crimes! Thank you for letting me be heard. Sincerely yours,
Marshall, Los Angeles
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Salton Sea
Californians respond to my message on Restoring the Salton Sea:Thanks a million....Salton Sea NEEDS to be fixed....PLEASE keep the pressure on ....
William, Redding
I appreciate you efforts in wanting to restore the Salton Sea. I support you decision, I too think it is very important to keep what we have and to restore it before it is too late.
Madlyne, Upland
Spending money on the Salton Sea wastes money that could better spent on education, energy research, transportation, any number of issues. True, allowing the sea to dry up would bring air pollution, but as someone who wrote about this man made puddle for nearly 20 years, I assure you the money for more studies is not justified. The Coachella Valley Water District and the Imperial Irrigation District know how to fix this body of water. Conservatives in both water districts don't want to make the sacrifices that will solve the problems. Don't waste your time or my money on it until CVWD and IID corporate farmers get serious.
Frank, Palm Desert
Thanks to you Senator in meeting with The Secretary and Congressman-Elect Ruiz at the Salton Sea. This is a priority for CA and especially the Sea area to begin an ongoing program to save this unusual geology from destruction and pollution. This problem has been kicked around to the place that it is example of leadership failure instead of creative imagination and progress. Blessing to you and the officials who you are rallying around to attack this problem with intelligent strategy that will save the Sea from becoming a foul waterhole.
Anderson, Desert Hot Springs
I commend your public efforts to recently meet with other government officials at the Salton Sea. I am an area resident and know that ancient Lake Cahuilla has come and gone more than once over the ages. Today's Salton Sea is just one more chapter in that process. While evidence of ancient Lake Cahuilla is everywhere in the Valley, the Salton Sea was caused by an accident in 1907. It isn't "natural" so there's nothing "natural" to preserve or hold environmentally sacred. You know, like the Delta Smelt in central California - an introduced species - that should not have been deemed environmentally sacred but was anyway. Why don't we carefully, and objectively, consider just letting the Salton Sea dry up so we can turn the fertile river bottom land beneath it into rich farmland just like the area around it? Just walk away and say, "Oh well, nature has a way of working things out for the best so let's get out of the way and let nature, not people with their own environmental or economic agendas, take care of the Salton Sea as she has done for eons. I don't have a dog in that fight like so many others who advocate doing something with, for or to the Salton Sea. I just observe geological history and suggest we not mess with it. Then, in 75 years or so, after everything dries up, Sprekles can plant more sugar beets, expand their processing plant in Brawley to create more jobs and be even more of an economic powerhouse in the Imperial Valley. Thanks for your consideration of my no-cost-to-the-taxpayer suggestion for fixing the Salton Sea "problem".
Mike, Palm Desert
I have lived in Palm Springs for 10 years. I have recently driven by the Salton Sea. I wonder about the value of it. It is man made, (by accident I understand,) and requires Colorado River water to keep it viable. Even when it was healthy, it seemed to be a boondoggle. It was hyped and property sold, but it was never a great place to live or work. I feel badly for those who invested there, but I question the value of restoration. I think it should be dried up and abandoned. the money can be better spent on schools in California.
Terry, San Diego
I am happy to see the Salton Sea problem being addressed. It could definitely be turned into a positive for the desert as a tourism and recreational draw as well as a birder's paradise. Fixing it would be an investment that would pay off.
Janet, Palm Springs
As publisher/editor of the North Shore News at the Salton Sea in the early 1990's, I was proactive endeavoring to garner interest in the sea and its plight. Nothing happened at then and the sea has continued to decline. This current news is encouraging and I am enthused and hopeful that, perhaps finally, something will be done to save this magnificent body of water that provides an absolutely necessary wildlife refuge and many other benefits to the region. Thank you for addressing this important issue!
Marilyn, Indio
It would be a disastrous loss for the Salton Sea to be allowed to dry up. Life in the valley would be reduced by half as most of the Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs etc. etc. Would be enveloped by a toxic dust bowl. We saw the Sea at it's heyday when it was a beautiful water resort. It should be restored to that level once again. We are supporters of Raul and hope that the change, that was definately needed, will be successful in this and other areas of interest to the full time and visiting population of the valley.
James & Donna, Palm Desert
I received your Dec. 22 newsletter regarding restoration of the Salton Sea. I find the idea strange since -- as I understand the history -- the lake is man-made, and it was actually created accidentally in 1905 by a huge spill of Colorado River water. In such a case, the word "restoration" should mean allowing the area to return to its original state... a dry desert. Especially in these times when water is becoming scarcer and more expensive, it seems wrong to "restore" a man-made lake.
Howard, Alameda
Not in favor of restoring Salton Sea. Too much money, too much effort and for what, it is not a natural sea. Should be left to go as nature would have it go.
Verna, Indian Wells
I'm happy to read that you and Congressman Ruiz are meeting with government officials to finally take action on saving the Salton Sea. It could have been done already if the millions that have been spent to "study" this issue were actually used to do something about it. We've waited long enough for someone to step forward and start fixing the sea. And all the animals have waited long enough too! Maybe this time things will really be different. Thank you in advance.
Dolores, Palm Desert
Thank you for your message about the Salton Sea. This is such good news that you are taking steps to encourage the restoration of the Salton Sea. This is an area that has suffered abuse for too many years and could be a national jewel given the right circumstances. You have the power to push this to fruition. I look forward to hearing more in the future of your success on this issue.
D., Pasadena
Californians respond to my message on Restoring the Salton Sea from 11/28/2012:
Thank you very much for bringing the problem of the Salton Sea turning into a public health emergency and steps needed to restore the sea and ensure that it remains a critical part of the region’s natural habitat! Best wishes, and please keep me informed. Thanks again!
Pamela, Turlock
Thank you Senator Boxer for working with Congressman Elect Raul Ruiz. We are blessed to have this bright young man representing our district. The Salton Sea is a major issue not just for the Coachella Valley, but for all of southern California. I really like the proposal to bring water in from the sea of Cortez and hope that a budget for such a canal can be proposed. Keep up the good work.
Mary, Palm Springs
Keep up your good work. Make sure that Fred Nobel’s plan for saving the sea at little cost to taxpayers is at least listened to and not discarded by entrenched power groups.
Jim, Rancho Mirage
I am very excited that our new Congressman Ruiz will be addressing issues of concern for the Coachella Valley. I applaud your environmental efforts to keep our state sound and anything that can be done to help protect the Salton Sea will be of great importance to our community.
Donna, Cathedral City
Thank you for addressing this issue; it is very important for the future of the Coachella Valley, our farmers, tourism, and the residents. The death of the sea would affect all of Southern California and Mexico.
Gayle, Palm Springs
I am very interested in any activity that involves saving the Salton Sea. There have been many studies but no resolutions. As you probably are aware, Sony Bono made a commitment to resolve the problems of the sea and his wife tried to follow up on that after his death but nothing seems to have been done that I know of. We certainly don't want a dustbowl there and we don't want a swamp land there. There is a potential for a great recreational area there if it could be controlled. This low desert area already has other recreational areas within 20 to 60 miles from the sea that bring in thousands of week ender visitors and this could be added to a recreation area that would include water sports. It used to be a great place to go boating etc.
James, Long Beach
Thank you so much for your interest in the Salton Sea. For years Bono Mack said she was going to clean it up and she did nothing! I just knew between you and Raul that something would be done. Thank you a thousand times.
Jerry, Palm Springs
I am thrilled to hear of meetings aimed at the restoration of the Salton Sea, This is such a unique body of water with a unique and tragic history, that it is way past due to receive governmental attention towards repairing it's desecration. I am very interested in following the progress of these meetings and hope they lead to action that will make this spot regain the healthy habitat it once had.
Kathy, Bolinas
Thank you to both you and Rep. Ruiz for your efforts to save/improve the Salton Sea.
Mary, Palm Springs
Thank you for being a Mentor for our new Congressman Ruiz.
Beverly, Palm Desert
I agree with you on the Salton Sea and will advocate for the cause through emails. Thank you for all your great work.
Dale, Potrero
As a nature and animal enthusiast I would like to suggest to “build” a new water/lake/marsh, etc. not far from where the Salton Sea is. Something that is preferably connected to a fresh water source, and work on expanding that area. I would believe that the birds could find a new “body” of water without any difficulty. I'm sorry to be negative about the projects you and the other officials would like to do at the Salton Sea. You all have the best of intentions. Please reconsider the options for a new “way-station” for the birds which are an important part of our world’s nature. Please consider building a new and better water area that will actually have a future.
Gabriele, Port Hueneme
Thank you for your attention to this beautiful, natural monument that has needed attention for 50 years!
Kathryn, San Diego
The history of the Sea is nothing if not ever-changing, much more than most places on the planet. The area is subject to earthquake and volcanic activity as well as manmade gaffes such as the 1905 Colorado River flooding. Given that there is so much that is beyond the capability of Man to regulate there, unless there were a clear MAJOR benefit to all lifeforms by spending the amounts of time and money necessary to effect meaningful alterations there, my strong suggestion is that it is wisest to leave the area alone, perhaps even make it off limits, as military bases are. Remember, flooding from the Gulf of Mexico, 30 feet of levee away, and the Sea's position on the San Andreas Fault, which is far overdue for movement, can easily and at any time render human efforts ineffectual. The state's precious financial resources are best used to better effect elsewhere.
Probyn, Los Angeles
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EPA Soot Standards
Californians respond to Senator Boxer on EPA’s New Public Health Standards on Toxic Soot Air Pollution:Thank you and the EPA for raising the soot standards across the United States. I see from the map that only 7 counties in the entire U.S. do not meet the new standards and they are all in southern California and Central California right where I live. This is exactly what we need. \\Fine particle pollution can penetrate deep into the lungs and has been linked to a wide range of serious health effects, including premature death, heart attacks, and strokes, as well as acute bronchitis and aggravated asthma among children// This is EXACTLY what I see here from the high number of people suffering from heart problems and COPD.
Gary, Lake Isabella
Its great to know that we are doing a better job at working to maintain better air quality for everybody that is important. On some days here in Los Angeles it is hard to breathe and it really helps to know that the EPA is maintaining better standards to help with this.
Kyle, Santa Monica
The new soot standards are bad and will cost us billions without really cleaning up the air. Please vote against any legislation on these new proposed standards.
Karl, Glendora
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Massacre in Newtown
Californians respond to my message on Protecting Our Children:I hope and presume that you will support Senator Feinstein's re-introduction of a bill to ban sale of automatic weapons. I even wish the bill went further and banned semi-automatic weapons along with much more stringent rules and checks for anyone buying or owning any gun. This latest savagery has really broken my heart. Maybe such a horrible act is what it takes to mobilize the country to stop the stupidity of believing anyone can buy a combat weapon to "protect themselves". I pray this bill will be passed by congress.
David, Piedmont
I appreciate your response to the tragic event in Newton, in the statement released today. You have my full support to move forward and advocate for not only the control and curtailing of semi-automatic and automatic guns, but also for the four other steps to be taken, delineated in your speech - law enforcement involvement in issuing and maintaining gun permits, gun show loopholes, help for the mentally ill, and school safety. I cannot express how important this is to me. The sense of urgency is overwhelming. Thank you for your hard work and attention to this.
Teresa, Bishop
I support your efforts at gun control. When the 2nd amendment was written, soldiers used muskets, which (according to Wikipedia) could fire only 4 bullets per minute. The Constitution guarantees us life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and that sets of rights was ripped away from the 26 victims in the CT murders. The last election did not show any strong wins by the NRA, so why are some congresspeople so afraid to do the right thing, and their duty, protect our citizens! Instead of a moment of silence, let's have Congress take 27 minutes, or 27 hours, of silence, so that they have ample time to reflect on the seriousness of this problem and how they can end this bloodshed.
Ralph, Oakland
While I am a hunter I do not know why we cannot have effective gun control. There is no need for assault weapons in the hunting world no guns capable of holding more than 6 rounds for the general public. Anything more is simply a weapon design to be used in a serious firefight.
Kent, Merced
How ironic that a woman who had the hobby of gun collecting and taught her son to shoot should end up being shot by her son as the first casualty of such a terrible mass shooting of innocents. Since the supreme court has said that we can't abolish guns I propose the idea that we do what conservatives have done to make abortion unavailable despite it being upheld by the court. We need to sue the gun producers until they can't do business here and make guns so difficult to obtain that they are practically abolished. This is the only positive thing that might come out of this terrible tragedy.
Regina, Granada Hills
Thank you, Senator Boxer for taking immediate action and for not stepping down to demand stricter gun control. My heart is heavy.
Tracey, Cayucos
I believe there is no need for a member of the public to own an assault rifle. They are meant for warfare and therefore should only be on the hands of our military and police. It should be a criminal offense to sell, purchase or have an assault rifle. I hope you can work towards freeing our nation from fanatics and organizations like the NRA, who perpetual the reign of terror by unstable individuals under the guise that its everyone has the right to own an assault weapons. There are something's we don't allow the general public to have, like a grenade, sarin gas or nuclear materials. Why do we allow any citizen the right to purchase weapons of war.
John, Los Altos Hill
The line has been crossed. We have stood by and watched and given prayers and said how sorry we are as people have been murdered our country. The 5 year olds have crossed the line. If we let this time go like we have let all the others go, we are saying it is okay to murder our children at school. There are some easy laws that could be passed that have huge public support. Expose the people who oppose these common sense laws. The last election showed that extreme thinking does not get elected. I'll do what I can do and I know you will do what you can do. Thanks,
Greg, Redding
We totally agree with you and hope that other members of Congress will listen and do the right thing for our Nation, children and all people who are in harms' way due to these senseless acts of violence. This is Urgent! Wishing you the best of luck in getting this passed and moving forward to a safer Nation for all of us.
Ernest, Hemet
As a parent who has experienced the loss of a child, I know in my heart how impossible it is for others to know what it feels like. But when one does understand the grief, it becomes all too apparent that we must do better. I dont know that we need to banish all guns. I think our forefathers meant us to be able to protect ourselves from the government, if need be. But I do think we can do better when it comes to letting those guns get to the streets. Maybe we need to require people to provide proof of safety, by making them have tamper proof lock boxes. Whatever, there is NO reason that ANYONE should have automatic weapons. I like guns as much as the next person. Ive spent my time hunting, and practicing at safe shooting sites. I strongly believe we need to change our legislation, requiring tougher permit applications. But that is not all. Since this happened, many of us are asking "why". What is it about Western culture, American culture, that has us killing each other. Why isnt there a task force looking into this? IS it not a worthwhile endeavor? Are you saying that any money spent trying to make American children safer, is not money we can afford to spend? This needs to happen. Please make it happen. I will back you.
Kimberlie, Turlock
Thank you for the solid assessment of the issues related to the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary and a commitment to speaking about it and going forward. I look forward to hearing more about what is being done as it evolves. I feel strongly that the issues are easy accessibility, not enough background checks AND a serious lack of helpful mental health services. The one area where I am a little uncertain is law enforcement presence at our schools. My children were raised in the Polly Klass aftermath and I have always regretted the amount of fearful concern that surrounded them. We need to find the proper balance between teaching them to be confident and powerful (versus fearful) and the need to protect them. Thank you, as always, for speaking up and for all that you do. Sincerely,
Jane, Mountain View
Eliminate ALL assault (semi-automatic military-style weapons), and eliminate all clips more than 10 rounds, and eliminate all 'armor piercing' ammunition. I also endorse fingerprinting every gun purchaser at a store or gun show, and eliminate all mail-order/internet sale of guns. I'm a former NRA member, and a gun owner.
Dwain, Goleta
As a first grade teacher, I am shattered by what happened at Sandy Hook Elementary. I have sat with my students during an "intruder drill" explaining to the six year olds why we had to practice. I can imagine how the teachers had to react quickly in this emergency situation. It sickens me that there are folks who think arming the teachers would have solved this. That is too simple of an answer. Real gun control, help for mentally Ill and a look at our culture of violence must occur. These teachers and children should not die in vain. Speak up! Speak out! Stand up to the NRA. Our youth need you! Thank you Senator Boxer.
Tina, Westminster
I do not support disarming the public in light of the Ct. shootings, I disagree with your statements regarding firearms of any kind, enforce the current laws that are on the books, I do not support any new legislation regarding firearms in any way shape or form, you swoar an oath to uphold the Constitution and as such the second ammendment falls under it, do your job and follow the Constitution, my vote will not favor you if you pursue new fireamrs legislation.
Richard, Downey
The entire Nation was saddened by the events of last week but I caution you not to read this as just an opportunity to restrict guns from the law abiding public. When a young man shoots his sleeping mother in the face, the Nation can not fault the gun he used as the problem. The Mental Health system in this country has been broken for may years and it is up to Congress to fix it. We can not let these types of events happen because people are denied assistance with problems. No one will argue that people with serious Mental Health issues should be denied access to firearms but any restrictions you put on firearms will not solve this issue. It may deny them access to the weapons you restrict but not to weapons in general. The U.S. has laws on the books to restrict access to weapons but they are seldom enforced because of a patchwork State by State system of identifing the right people. Please direct your efforts to the real peoblem or these problems will happen again and again.
Ed, San Jose
Thank you for taking a leadership role on gun control. As a mother of a 3-year old daughter, I feel like I need to take the time to make my voice heard - and time is not something that is not easy to find being a parent and a full-time science journal editor. I have been hoping for meaningful gun control for a while, but after the recent events in Newtown, Connecticut, I can no longer remain silent. We need meaningful gun control now. We needed it a year ago. Personally, I would like to see a ban on the ownership, manufacture, and sale of all semi-automatic assault weapons. Everyone who has a semi-automatic assault weapon should be asked to turn it in. They can be reimbursed, but the weapons should not be available for use by anyone with any itchy finger who is looking to inflict harm. Sincerely,
Meghan, San Francisco
Please go forth on this issue. It is long overdue. What happened Friday is just an obscenity and it's so terrible that it happens again and again in our country and nothing is done about it. Please be strong and fight the NRA for all of us. I can see where someone might need a gun to defend themselves, depending where they live. Or perhaps they hunt (although I am not a hunter.) But automatic weapons or semi-automatic weapons of ANY KIND are not necessary for anyone to have who is not a police officer, etc. It's appalling how easy these are to obtain. I wish you and Ms. Feinstein the very best of luck at turning the tide in this country. Perhaps because this latest episode is so heinous to so many, you just might win on this one! With respect and gratitude,
Lydia, Napa
Yes, please, work as hard as you can to enact a law that will keep assault type weapons off the street and out of the hands of unstable people. Among the unstable people, I count those who want to arm teachers, those who think that if they don't have guns, the government will be coming after them, and those who think the militia is still drilling on the village green.
Gale, Santa Rosa
I agree with you completely. What has been going on in this country is insane and has to stop. Why worry about al Qaeda when we are killing our own faster than they can? I will vote for any assault weapon ban you and Sen. Feinstein can pass... We really need to go further than that but that would be a good start. We also need to do something about mental health services for those who need it. Not either/or but both/and... Thank you for whatever you can do.
Agnes, El Cerrito
My heart is broken for these children and teachers 3,000 miles away. I am a mother of 10-year-old twin boys, and I'm a teacher myself. This news story has caused me to cry for days, and the tears keep coming. Obama nailed it when he said that if we can't get this right (ensuring our children's safety), then we can't get anything right. My heart aches for a future of fear and the illusion that locks and an escalation of guns for self-defense can keep us safe. They can't; this path will enable a endless cycle of fear. The ONLY solution to keep innocent people safe are laws that put tighter restrictions on guns and ammunition built to kill people. It is time to lay the guns, and not the children, to rest. Thank you for taking the lead! We need leaders on gun control, particularly leaders who are mothers.
Lise, Los Olivos
A gun is an inanimate object and is incapable of doing anything on its own including being violent. Violence is a human trait and / or an emotional condition that NORMAL people do not have. There are laws in place to prevent felons and other criminals from LEGALLY obtaining them. Criminals will ALWAYS get a gun, knife or other weapon to wreck havoc on peaceful normal individuals. Innumerable laws can be passed to remove guns from peaceful law abiding citizens and criminals will still find a way to obtain them. Too many liberal politicians and other groups are trying to disarm America for what I feel are socialist purposes. Our representatives need to stop funding, placating, and excusing criminals for their criminal acts against society. Our representatives need to quit underwriting and funding people who are in our country illegally and divert those funds to caring for the mentally ill in facilities that are staffed with people qualified to care for them utilizing their professional skills. Return foreign criminals to their homeland for prosecution and / or imprisonment we should not have to fund housing illegal aliens from EVERY country in the world; send them home. The money saved would surely put a dent in the cost of humanely caring for mentally ill or mentally challenged individuals in professional medical settings not in jails or prisons. My heart aches for the children, their parents, the town and nation. Respectfully,
Diane, Hemet
I'm in favor of repealing the second amendment, actually, but at this time we must work for what we can get: serious restrictions on automatic weapons and large magazines. The harder it is for criminals and mentally ill individuals to obtain such weapons, the safer our children will be. Please do all you can to pass meaningful gun control legislation, starting with automatic weapons.
Gretchen, Valley Village
I favor responsible gun legislation. Thank you for your support of a federal ban on the sale, transfer, importation, and possession of assault weapons and the munitions that go with them. Please continue to push to fund robust care for those with mental illness as well as take steps to address the growing use of violence as a means of entertainment. Thank for your leadership on these issues and continue to help move us as a a people to the awareness we have a responsibility to protect our children.
Sister Pat, Santa Monica
I am in support of more diligence in pre-sale situations for guns. Not sure we need assault weapons on the market either. I am however a life long gun owner and would resist any action that would stop Americans from owning or buying hunting grade guns or handguns for self defense in the home. Thank you.
Gary, Felton
You have a long personal history of supporting gun control measures, so we will forego any effort to persuade you to change your thinking. We will ask you to get your facts and definitions straight. Please stop using the word "clip" to describe what is correctly defined as a "magazine." Also, I believe that the San Francisco gunman used a semi-automatic pistol, not an "assault weapon." Also, there is no such thing as a "gun show loophole." Every firearm sold at a gun show must, by law, be sold in compliance with all Federal, State, and local laws. Several states, including California, require every firearm sale to be run through the NICS system. If that is what you want, then say so, please do not try to deceive the public into believing that gun shows are some sort of unrestricted free trade area. Further, banning so-called high capacity magazines will do nothing to eliminate the millions of them already in existence. You would be more likely to acheive your goals by being accurate and honest. At present, it is too easy for people such as us to destroy your arguments by pointing out your inaccuracies.
Tim and Vicki, Riverside
Focusing on gun control will not solve the problem of random violence. The shootings and other violent acts are terrible symptoms of mental illness. Our children and young adults need more attention, training in how to cope with life and better medical coverage (screenings) to identify this sickness before the terrible violence has a chance to happen. If it wasn't guns, it would be some other method. James Holmes had bombs in process in his apartment. Please stop focusing on a symptom and start focusing on the systemic issues that create these monsters. Thank you.
Marguerite, Fallbrook
Please do whatever it takes to get assault weapons out of the hands of regular citizens, and do something to prohibit anyone from having ammunition that fires 100 shots without reloading. This is ridiculous and insane to even need to type these requests. I don't understand how this issue ever got so skewed in one direction. Don't let this issue go. Those little first graders and those teachers who gave their lives trying to protect them deserve better than letting the issue be controlled by the news cycle. Sincerely,
Rita, San Jose
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Climate Change
Californians respond to Senator Boxer on the UN Climate Change Conference:Once again I am proud to have you as my senator. In spite of our failure to join others globally in signing the treaty to commit to efforts to reduce green house emissions, you have expressed to the UN that there are many people here who actually do care about the damage to the planet and want to reverse it. I appreciate your efforts to convey to the people across the globe, that there are people here who understand the urgency of changing our ways for future generations. Please continue your work to make our voices heard in Washington D.C. and to join international efforts and commitments to be responsible. Let's sign the treaty and move forward with strength, courage and creativity.
Karen, Nevada City
Our lack of national action on climate change is deeply embarrassing as well as suicidal. We need your strong leadership in the Senate. And let's hope that the President demonstrates strong leadership in his second term as well.
James, Davis
I just wanted to express my support and thanks for your continued effort to address climate change in this climate (excuse the pun) of politically based denial on the part of the Republican party in this country. The wisdom of people like Al Gore to risk anything and everything to help get this message across is done justice by the continuing efforts by individuals such as yourself. Please continue to do a great job of representing the people of our country and not the greedy special interests.
Richard, Los Osos
I just read your letter and wholeheartedly agree. Besides American jobs and the "fiscal cliff", I don't think there's anything more important than climate change. We must begin to take action, now. I hope you can get the President to take action, soon.
Fran, El Granada
I do not agree with your position on climate change. The climate has changed many times over the millenia and scientists are still unclear on differentiating natural versus anthropogenic change. The measurements have a lot of variability associated with them so the models have a lot of variability and uncertainty. Please do not waste our time and money on trying to deal with something that we may not have any control over.
Marco, Salinas
It is good to hear that there are more senators joining the effort to make a difference with the climate.
Cheryl, Orange
Thank you, Senator Boxer, for taking this matter seriously and for acting on it in Doha. You represent me in this action. I'm Grateful!
Elaine, South Pasadena
Thank you for taking a stand on the importance of the environment and especially with the United States as a world leader and not a lager in such a crucial subject to the world's survival. What we do now will be important not only for those currently living but also for those in the future. Without a healthy environment all other considerations fall short in importance.
Lark, San Diego
The billions of dollars requested by the UN is an unnecessary waste of my Tax Dollars. I'm all for being environmentally responsible, however, policies should be implemented at a local level that does Not require us to be fiscally responsible for other governing bodies. We are Not governed by the UN nor should we ever. I Do Not support your stand on this.
Branden, Porterville
We are doing too little, too slowly! Raping our environment, and over populating it! We MUST try to stop this self-centered approach of nations and people, before we cannot prevent this train wreck from occurring... the world will look back on this time, and we will be ashamed we did so little...
Keith, San Ramon
Thank you for sending so clearly stated, committed message to the UN Conference. It will show that in the United States we do care about saving the future of livable Earth.
Olga, Huntington Beach
Look, there is no concerted effort to stop global climate change. What do we expect in an industrial world with an exponentially increasing population? What do we expect when huge amounts of fossil fuels are burned just so we can go on having fun and consuming? We say we are worried, but not enough to change our daily behaviors. And what would advertisers do if the problem became front page news on a daily basis? Hotter summers and higher air pollution are causing my yard plants to die and bees to drop dead in my pool. Large drivers of world climate change are a doubling of world population in the last fifty years, politicians who lose their jobs if they stand against energy interests, and a public in denial satisfied to have fun and consume. Like James E. Hansen (NASA), I am not optimistic about the future of my grand children and planetary health. Things may change when the water and food are gone, but probably not until then. Humans will not solve the ocean acid problem; the earth will. Population collapse will be driven by climate collapse caused by capitalism run amok. CO2 rises as more and more people think that democracy guarantees them the right to travel where ever for business, pleasure, sports, or politics. The earth does not get mad, but it will get even.
Roger, San Diego
Thank you very much for you statements and support on the need for U.S. and international (China) action regarding production of greenhouse gases and our need to try and curtail the long term effects of climate change. We are a frogs about to boil to death and it's happening so insidiously we're not taking action to stop it. We can't ignore this. Everyone needs to take action. I grow as much of my own produce as possible. We have solar panels on our roof. I drive a hybrid. I recycle. I would happily do more, and accept more changes in my cultural way of life to help address this situation. Every educated person I know would do the same. That's not enough, we need to reach everyone, and it needs to come from the bottom up, and the top down. The crunch on resources will be intense. If we can't stop climate change, then, ultimately, there will be a reduction in population, through drought and starvation, disease, inundation, economic collapse.
Barbara, McKinleyville
I do not agree with the agressive proposals coming out of this conference. They will devastate economic activity and work toward a "one world" dictorial body. Carbon taxes and trading are a huge scam for the financial elite. Please research the other side of the global warming argument before proceeding with your support.
James, Santa Monica
I'm delighted to hear of your activism regarding climate change. It is surely the most important issue facing the planet. There has been a distressing reluctance by both parties to face up to it. So, please soldier on for the sake of all of us who will be ultimately deleteriously affected by it.
Sybil, Berkeley
I am proud to continue my support for you as you urge leaders to address Climate Change. This is my top issue. I am involved in organizations striving to improve awareness and understanding to build public support. In the end this is about the common good, and it requires government action. Best,
Mark, Cupertino
Thanks Senator Boxer for addressing climate change as I believe it is one of the most important topics of our day. We also need to consider population control as a factor into this equation. How to do this in a manner that is not punitive will require some interesting work. In the meantime, thanks so much for making our world a healthier place for today and for my two brilliant daughters.
Kathryn, Rancho Cucamonga
I believe that the climate change debacle is a scam. If man left the planet tomorrow it would not make a noticeable difference in the climate. Man has been trying to control the weather forever and still hasn't been successful. Science has determined that mankind contributes about 4% of the co2 to the environment. If you figure a way to control the volcanoes you might make a difference. Not likely. Limiting production of petroleum is having a terrible effect on our progress and our economy. We pay a large toll to obtain our energy from countries that hate us when we could be energy independent on our own resources. Seems counter productive and self destructive. Thanks,
Don, El Cajon
Thank you for your work on making climate change a priority. I know there are many important issues that you must address, but I always feel that caring for the environment is so basic and so important. If we don't take care of our planet we will not survive! I recently got solar panels on my home and they just got hooked up yesterday! It is very exciting just to feel like I am doing a small thing towards decreasing greenhouse gases. You are doing much more than I, so again. thank you for all you hard work!!
Kathryn, Oakland
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Middle Class Tax Cut
Californians respond to my message Pass the Middle Class Tax Cut Now:Thank you for supporting the Middle Class Tax Cut Act. It is the right thing to do. Tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires is not the right thing to do.
Diana, Boulder Creek
Thank you so much for that marvelous speech you gave in Congress about taxes. You spoke for us, the 99%!
Ilse, Berkeley
Thank you so much for your leadership and support of President Obama's plan to decrease taxes on the middle class while raising rates on those making more than $250,000. I urge you and all Democrats - including our President - to hold firm on this commitment. I also fervently hope you and other Democrats will support the President in NOT letting the debt ceiling be debated in winter 2013. It is crucial that it be part of whatever deal is currently being negotiated so we don't have to waste more time on Republicans' efforts to hold economic growth and fairness hostage.
Christine, Davis
Personally, I'm willing to pay more taxes, especially if they go toward education, health, infrastructure and improved quality of life for all Americans. I don't want my tax cut to be a worry in the negotiations with the Republicans. Let the year close without the agreement, and start out the new Congress with a different set of negotiators at the table. Then, raise the tax rates on the rich as we requested in our election. Politically, it is also to the advantage of democratic people to go "over the cliff." We are showing our goodwill, willing to pay taxes, making the safety and fiscal health of the nation a priority. Perhaps we'll unseat some more Tea Party extremists in the next election and give our President the support he needs for his final two years.
Mark, Monterey
Thank you, Senator Boxer, for focusing on this issue. Voting rights must be protected, cabinet nominees must be approved, but nothing is more important right now than avoiding the "fiscal cliff" and heading off political fighting over the debt ceiling. Until we can agree on these fiscal issues, I don't know how the United States government can do any other important business.
Steven, Antioch
Thank you for your hard work to help the middle class during this "fiscal cliff" time. Indeed that action will help to prevent another recession. Yes, the big buck guys have to pay a bit more.
Jean, San Francisco
Keep up the pressure! I know you are aggressive, but choose your words carefully. We don't need "tax relief," we need to stop hostage-taking inaction by Republicans. There is no "fiscal cliff." It is a curtain about to be removed to show just who the Republicans really are. I say, let's pull back that curtain.
Gordon, Saratoga
Thank you for standing strong on this issue. It is of utmost importance to me that Democrats not allow tax cuts for the very wealthy continue. In my opinion, it is a better option to "go over the cliff" than to allow this Bush-era class protectionism to continue.
Jeremy, San Francisco
The Republicans’ ideological rant against ANY tax rate increase, holding up action on continuing tax relief for most Americans, is just silly (and please remind Speaker Boehner that we had a surplus when Bush II took office, and he squandered it all and then some on a disastrous escapade in Iraq, without paying for the war with the necessary tax hikes that every previous "wartime" president prudently put in place). Enough is enough. The wealthiest Americans have seen their net worth approach the stratosphere while ordinary folks are suffering from the economic catastrophe brought on by their greed. Its well past time for the upper crust to put up their fair share to support the government that has fostered their path to prosperity. Thank you for standing up (even if it means just stating the obvious). We're with you!
Bradus, Richard, San Francisco
Thank you.
Thank you for urging the Republicans to pass tax cuts for the 98% and urging them to increase taxes and eliminate the loopholes of the top 2% that are being coddled and haven't been paying their fair share of taxes for decades. The top 2% need to decide if they self-identify as Americans and have any commitment to the growth and development of this country and ALL its citizens or if they think they belong to an international elite class removed from the human race that identify as hoarders of wealth and "things" and are but empty shells of a human being.
Philip and Linda, Fresno
You speak of millionaires and billionaires. What about a small business man working 60/70 per week risking his capital to enlarge his business and has a S corporation and some other investments not major. He is facing A COMBINED 58% TAX in California. Do you think this is fair? The cut off point for increased taxes should be at least $500,000. Destroying incentive is counter productive
David, Los Angeles
AS a middle class Disabled person Iam on a limited income and a tax increase would not be a very good thing. Keep a middle class tax decrease to be voted in.
Paul, Los Angeles
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Korean War Veterans
Californians respond to my message on Honoring Korean War Veterans:Thank you Senator Boxer for all your veteran support. My Dad is A Korean war vet and I will bet you have some veterans in your family as well.
Lawrence, Gold River
Thank you for the honor and recognition of those who served during the Korean War. My husband was one of the first to be involved at the start of this war. He was a U.S. Navy Frogman, U.D.T/Seals, serving in Japan, training So.Korean troups on Amphibious Landings, when the No. Koreans attacked So. Korea. General MacArthur began looking for a way to slow the Commie advance until he could get reinforcements to the area. This squad of Frogmen was in the right place at the right time. Although they had not been trained for inland commando tactics, they knew explosives-and that was what was needed to slow the Communist advance. This 10 squad of Frogman opened the ball by going in behind enemy lines to blow a railroad tunnel after midnight on August 4th,1950. This 10, men squad worked alone in pulling the first inland demolition raid in Korea, blowing transportation routes all along the coasts of Korea behind the front lines. From that time on, these men were called "The Big Ten." These served in this war over 2 years. Thank you for honoring their service in this manner.
Priscilla, Lancaster
It is about time. The Korean War has always been known as the forgotten war. Per capita there were higher casualties in three years than in Vietnam and we remain ignored. It was a big war. The last of the Armys to Armys coflict since WWII. When remembering veterans, they account for WWII, which they should, being the Greatest Generation, and they jump into Vietnam, always bypassing Korea.
Al, San Diego
Thanks for honoring Korean war Vets. Also Thanks for all you do for our state and nation. We do appreciate you.
Tim, Spring Valley
Thank you as in parades there is no mention of the Korean Conflict or Police Action as it was called it seems to be a lost war, glad it is being recognized as I am a Navy Veteran of the Korean War which still is not recognized as being over......
Eugene, Palms Springs
I am pleased that recognition is being given to Korean War veterans.
Hugh, Riverside
Having served in Korea, after the war, but trained and served with veterans of that war, I commend you for remembering their efforts.
Frank, Palm Desert
Korean War Veterans
Senator Boxer, Thank you for honoring our Korean War Veterans. Sincerely,
Lloyd Plett, Ridgecrest
Thanks for the update and the web site for Korean War Veterans.
Bob, Graeagle
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Medicare
Californians respond to my message on Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period:Thank you for reminding us of the open enrollment dates for Medicare. We don’t want to change anything and thank you for letting us know we don't have to do anything if we keep our same coverage. We weren't sure how that "Obamacare" plan would affect Medicare recipients.
Ardeth & John, Tulare
I think Medicare is wonderful, except for the drug supplement plans. They cover few or none of the Tier 5 drugs that many seniors need. I've been through every possible drug for a chronic condition and the only one that works is a Tier 5 biologic that used to cost $57,000 a year but is now down to about $11,000 a year. All of the supplemental Part D plans I've looked at don't contain my Tier 5 drug in their formulary. I've discovered that if the drug is not in the plan formulary the co-payments you make are not included in your total drug bills so I'll never hit catastrophic on my drug costs. Fortunately, I have found one group that will help me with the co-pay on this drug, bringing the cost down from $4400 every three months to $1219 every three months. For me, that's a stretch, but I have no choice except to do it or suffer. For other seniors, it might be a death sentence. I feel strongly that this situation impacts the work being done on discovery of new biologic drugs. If no one can afford the cost of the product those doing the research and those financing these discoveries will stop their research. This situation impacts everyone, not just seniors. Making these drugs affordable for everyone who needs them will keep these new discoveries coming to market. I think they are very important to mankind and we should be making every effort to make them available to people.
Mary, Alameda
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Seafood Labeling
Californians respond to my message on Stopping Seafood Fraud:Thank you so much for caring, to send a strong message to the FDA officials regarding safe labeling of sea-foods! As a mom, I am so happy to know you care to help empower me in my informed choices, regarding what I feed to my family! Best,
Dawn, Sausalito
Steve, Mckinleyville
Thank you so much for fighting for accurate labeling of seafood. As a major seafood eater, I want to be sure that when I'm eating monkfish, it's not fugu!! I appreciate your hard work on behalf of your constituents. Keep it up!
Kevin, Sunnyvale
Thank you very much, Senator Boxer, for writing to the FDA to request they address the issue of seafood fraud. We should not have to worry that seafood that we buy at restaurants or stores may be endangered species.
Sue, Palo Alto
I just wanted to say thank you for all the amazing work you do and for standing up to the FDA on the issue of seafood fraud. I've been extremely frustrated with lobbyists writing the rules and watching corporations worry more about profit than for the health of our society. I hope you continue to push for change from the FDA on this and many other issues.
Andrea, San Francisco
Thank you for bringing attention to seafood fraud. I have recently learned how much of it is going on, and hope something will be done soon to lessen the fraud. The cost of seafood is high enough to guarantee a good product. I am a senior on a fixed income who is supposed to eat more seafood, which I can barely afford. To find out that I am not getting what I am paying for is very upsetting. Please keep on this one! Thank you.
Barbara, Pleasant Hill
Consumers need to know what our dollars are contributing to. We have the right to decide whether to purchase truthfully labeled wild caught or farmed seafood as well.
Chris, Temple City
Thank you for your advocacy of correct labeling of seafood. As our resources become less available, it's more and more important that we know with precision what we have for future generations. Mislabeling seafood to escape regulation is not the kind of behavior that is conducive to preserving resources for future generations. I appreciate your support of this issue, and hope it will help with more vigorous enforcement.
Janet, Sacramento
Your message about requiring the FDA to step up their efforts to combat mislabeling of seafood made my day! Over the past months I have participated in several petition and letter campaigns to the FDA about this issue. For all I know, I may even have signed a petition to my elected representatives. If you were a recipient, I apologize for preaching to the choir. I hope that at last the FDA will realize that Oceana and its supporters are not "eco terrorists" but people concerned about the serious health problems that can arise from the consumption of mislabeled seafood.
Ileana, Riverside
Thank you so very much for your excellent, well-researched and thorough letter to the FDA. As your constituent I am very happy with your work on this issue which projects the need for a plausible accountability (that is, accountability which is not only needed, but possible) with health and safety at a most primal level: our food source. This is where it is reasonable and important to demand accountability. I hope to learn the answers you are given and with your help I intend to follow this issue as any citizen should be who is concerned that the people are not callously deceived. I have shared your letter on my Facebook page with the following comments: This news is shocking but not surprising. And clearly there are important questions that need to be answered. This is one of the most across-the-board useful and pertinent things I know of Barbara Boxer having done. Please read her letters and make "fish fraud" the dirty word it deserves to be. It puts a whole new spin on "there's something rotten in Denmark" when people are not even eating what they should be able to believe they're eating. Read it and be alarmed: the percentages are amazingly bad: 55% of fish in Los Angeles are mislabeled: 100% of Florida White Tuna are a different fish, that causes digestive problems!
Christopher, San Mateo
I want to thank you for reaching out to the FDA in an attempt to reduce the alarming amount of fraudulently labeled seafood. Not only does it pose a serious health risk for pregnant women and those with food sensitivities, it poses a serious risk to the health of our oceans. I am an extreme ocean conservationist, as I see it being the life line of a healthy environment. The seas are in peril, and overfishing is compounding the issues facing those trying desperately to reverse the status. Mislabeled seafood means to me a huge loophole for catching/selling endangered, and overfished species and profiting off of them at market. Thank you for supporting the health of Californians and the Oceans we all depend on for a healthy existence.
Sarah, Arcata
Bravo, Senator Boxer, for requesting that the FDA look into this. Our food labeling in this nation is so oftentimes dishonest, which is so unfair and sometimes harmful to consumers. We all have a right to know precisely what we are purchasing with our dollars and ingesting into our bodies--whether it be fish or any other food. Thank you for tackling this issue. Please keep up this effort.
Melanieq, Mission Viejo
I want to thank you for fighting for label transparency and for the safety of our food supply. It feels good to know that there are representatives in government still fighting for what the people want and deserve. You have my Support!
Colleen, Pacific Grove
I am totally in support of your efforts to combat seafood fraud. Keep up the good work Senator Boxer.
Brian, San Francisco
I got your email about the legislation against seafood fraud. Thank you very much for supporting this cause. I'm vegetarian myself, but I'm also Jewish and we have to be careful about what seafood we eat if we keep kosher. It's very important to us. I also share the safety concerns that people may be getting excess mercury if they're not getting the fish they think they are..
Millie, El Cajon
Thank you for bringing this issue to the FDA. I had no idea that 86% of the sea food in the US was imported! Our family appreciates your work on behalf of all citizens.
Silka, San Diego
There is so much talk of what government should and should not do. It seems that you have my priorities at heart again. Simply, thank you.
Sarah, Nevada City
I am very pleased you have taken this to the FDA. It is an important issue that needs to be address. The number of misslabelling is out of control, so I am happy I have always voted for you to watch out for the peoples interests not just big money.
Adella, Penn Valley
Thank you for contacting me on this issue. Since I live in a seaport city where seafood is a local commodity I appreciate your efforts on behalf of this industry. It's important that seafood buyers know exactly what they are getting in case of allergies and the FDA should not even have to be told through legislation to label correctly - it should be a regular part of their job. But since they seem to require a legislative reminder to do their job properly I'm happy to hear that you are among those providing that nudge. Sincerely,
Karen, Van Nuys
I completely support your position on this. I have read a lot about the conditions of the world's coral reefs, whose symbiotic relationship with fishes, is well known. I have read on the impact of farmed seafoods and finally, I understand the issues, worldwide, with the labeling of fish. Let's set a precedent and be a leader. Thank you.
Linda, San Diego
Thank you for taking action against fraudulent mislabeling of fish for consumption. I read labels on food and expect to receive truthful information as to what the contents are. We need to be able to feel not only safe in what we are consuming, we also need to feel we are being provided with truthful information. Your efforts are appreciated.
Candace, Moreno Valley
Thank you for writing to the FDA on this topic. It is a very important topic. I know several people with severe fish allergies, some of them are children, and for some of them exposure to fish can be life threatening. For some, even contact of the hands with a fish substance can cause severe rashes and splitting of the skin of the hands. Food labeling is only valuable if it is true and complete. Actually, I think this topic should be carried further, because there are many food substances that contain fish oils that are not even labeled as containing them. The same is true for corn products. Many people, not necessarily the same ones as above, have corn allergies that can be life threatening. They need to know if a product contains corn substances. More rare, but still as important, there are some who have allergies to wheat and to other foods. It is imperative that our food labeling be true and complete. For fish, and for corn and other products, it is also important to have species related information because some people with allergies may be more sensitive to one species than another. Life threatening danger lurks on every grocer's shelf.
Bill, El Cerrito
Thank you for all your efforts to ensure safety and honest labeling for seafood. As a cancer survivor, I am particularly grateful for your concern over fraudulent labeling and our health. When we see children with serious illnesses, it so important to take proactive measures to prevent suffering. Your efforts will allow us to make informed good choices for our families, including seniors and expectant mothers.
Irene, San Jose
Thank you for taking this little known fact up with those who may be able to make some changes.
Carole, Santa Ynez
Protecting Medicare
Californians respond to my message on Protecting and Strengthening Medicare:Thank you for fighting for us. As senior citizens, my husband and I are very concerned about maintaining the benefits that we have now. Thank you for doing all that you possibly can to preserve medicare.
Annie, Inglewood
I agree with your recent email news letter on this subject, except... there should be means testing. I don't see why tax payers (including those paying into medicare) should pay any medical expences for those with multi million dollar incomes or assets. Medicare and Medicaid are ment for the poor and to prevent the middle class from becoming impoverished by medical expenses.
Thomas, San Diego
Respectfully, you say "nearly all seniors have access to Medicare". This program is doomed unless changes are made. It is your party that recently raided Medicare funds to the tune of 716 billion dollars. We do not want "death panels". We just want the same program that Congress has available to them. As a retired senior , I do not want anybody to mess with a program that I have contributed to for all these years but I know that this program, unless changed will not be around certainly for my children and probably reduced for my wife and I in just a few years. Please work across the aisle to get this fixed. It doesn't matter who gets the credit for the fix. Congress job is to serve and for the better good. I pray that all our elected people do their jobs. Thank you for the opportunity to respond.
Gerald, Palmdale
Thank you very much for fighting for us and our rights to deserve a good health plan con medicare and medical. God Bless You for your effort on behalf of all seniors.
Roberto, San Francisco
While the Ryan plan for Medicare and Medicaid basically dumps the services back into the seniors laps to fend for themselves, we still need to do something to handle the ever-growing costs for the programs. What I hope you will do is support revisions to Medicare that do not take away what exists for either new or existing members, by support a plan that slows the rapid increase in new members due to baby-boomers. And we need to do something in this category very quickly. Thank you for your consideration.
Rob, Santa Rosa
If your solution to the preservation of long term health care is to take 100's of Billions of dollars from current Medicare rolls and trasfer it to Obamacare, I could'nt disagree with you more. The Republican fix is to modify Medicare for those under 55 and complete a better solution for the future. That is the way to go. I do not see any program from the Democrats which will serve the long term needs of Medicare. I am over 65 but am concerned for my daughter and her husband who are under 40. Will there be anything in the fund when their time comes?
Randall, Indio
I totally agree with the Senator. A voucher system is just about the dumbest idea out there.
Walter, Desert Hot Springs
Why do you keep distorting the facts about Medicare? As a Senior citizen, there are no planned changes to Medicare, except for the deep cuts that the Govt. has put into place regarding my Medicare Advantage plan, which is one that is really working for us seniors. Please be accurate in the future. Respectfully,
Joseph, Palm Desert
High Gas Prices
Californians respond to my message on Spiking Gas Prices in California:
Your concept of where the problem lies is not going to fix the problem. Calif. needs MORE refineries, oil wells and pipes to move gas & oil around. The government to the extent that it is stopping these from happening IS the problem. Califorian's diserve what we are getting for not demanding that the situation change. Reguards, Please post my comment.
Adrian, Newark
At times like these I, and I’m sure numerous other Californians, are deeply grateful for your support and for starting a "good fight" directed at the probable measures people in the stock market undertake. They take advantage of refinery fires and/or problems the refinery folks experience, only thinking of how much money they can rake in. There should be a law against this sort of thing, maybe then they can put these scoundrels in jail where they belong, like Madoff and company.
Juan, Long Beach
I am a low income Californian, I am self-employed, and my work revolves around my truck. And I STRONGLY believe gas prices are MUCH TOO LOW. The United States government needs to end all oil industry subsidies, all oil industry tax breaks, and there should be zero US troops guarding pipelines, oil tankers, drilling sites or refineries. The oil industry should pay market rates for their own security, not get free security by the US tax payer. All of this would raise gas prices, which would be a very GOOD thing. High gas prices mean consumers choose smaller more efficient cars, which means manufactures produce more efficient cars. People would also choose to live closer to work and shopping, allowing more use of bicycles and public transit. Instead of government mpg mandates, CAFE standards, smog maximums, and carbon taxes, we could simply let the free market do its own work by letting gas cost what it naturally does. No other net importer of petroleum pays as little as the US does. We have no reason to be complaining about the price we pay.
Bakari, Oakland
Thank you for looking into the recent price hikes in California gas prices. Working class and middle class families are getting squeezed out of every penny and are not left with any breathing room to save for emergencies, kids schools etc. As college educated professionals my wife and I are living paycheck to paycheck and when the industry conspires to manipulate prices we need our elected leaders in Washington to hold them accountable. Once again our sincere thanks to you and your team for standing up to defend the rights of the "47%".
Edrees, San Diego
It is a welcome site to see someone in our district watching out for their constituents on this gas problem. It seems to me when these incidents happen, it gives the gas companies the opportunity to gauge the public for excessive profits at the expense of the poor and middle class riders to and from work. Thank you for watching out for us. Keep up the good work
Michael, Laguna Niguel
Thank you for sending a message to the Dept of Justice about the oil and gas prices in California. I too, have often thought that the gas prices are being manipulated unfairly. It seems as though when the oil & gas traders want more money, they simply raise the prices. If supplies of gas are really tight, then why is gas not being rationed? It's still available everywhere in unlimited amounts. The higher price is obviously a scam or the result of unscrupulous speculation. It would be fairer if it was rationed at the price that it really costs to produce + a normal markup, rather than jack up the price for everyone for an indefinite time.
David, San Jose
I have 40 years in the Oil Refinery Business in our state of California and refinery maintenance shutdowns are an important part of the running of a refinery. There is scheduled shutdowns among other refineries so that there is no disruptions in the supply side of providing jet fuels and gasoline. I strongly believe Wall Street Commodity Traders such as was shown on NBC's "60 Minutes" are playing a strong role in the spike of oil prices. We need more oversight and regulation not more investigations that seem to bear no fruit. There is enough evidence to solidify legislation to halt the fleecing of Americans. I ask you to do more, to examine the evidence already on the table and to act swiftly. Oil will continue to be our life blood for the next 30 to 50 years and we need a stronger United States of America. Thank-you.
Miguel, Vallejo
Thank you for looking into this. While I don't have a car and don't really care about the price rise I do care about this being an attempt to influence voters to vote for candidates that will support drilling in Anwar or on other federal lands. I feel this is an attack on our democracy.
Christopher, Long Beach
Please ask the President to allow more drilling. That would end the high cost of fuel over night. Leo, Pittsburg
I and many others I know, appreciate immensely that you and Dianne Feinstein decided to investigate these ridiculous gas price hikes. In this economy, a jump of roughly $.60/gallon more in price within one week is outrageous! People are out of jobs and are on tight budgets, just because we live in California is not a reason to take advantage of its citizens. Thank you again!
Daphne, Hermosa Beach
Thanks so much for looking into the spike in gas prices. Apparently we in Humboldt County pay the highest gas prices in CA, maybe in the whole nation. I appreciate your paying attention to the sudden increase.
Roz, Eureka
I am glad you are looking into this. I live in El Segundo, California, home of one of the Chevron plants, and we experience some of the highest prices in the country. When my friends from back east visit, they complain that the gas prices here are almost $2 higher than in their home state, in rural areas. High prices inhibit travel to California, and place a lion's share of the burden on California residents. This is not fair!
Lisa, El Segundo
At times like these I, and I'm sure numerous other Californians, are deeply grateful for your support and for starting a "good fight" directed at the probable measures people in the stock market undertake. They take advantage of refinery fires and/or problems the refinery folks experience, only thinking of how much money they can rake in. There should be a law against this sort of thing,maybe then they can put these scoundrels in jail where they belong, like Madoff and company. This is primarily why I always vote for you, because you take action and don't mince your words. Thanks for being our champion.
Juan, Long Beach
Good for you for raising this issue! I am okay with higher prices based on taxes that send money to infrastructure and discourage wasteful energy use. But higher prices driven by speculation and profit-gouging are disgraceful!
Deborah, San Diego
I so appreciate your efforts here (as well as everywhere). I'm 76 yrs. old and on SS. Never been affluent but always managed. This is the first time in years that I have truly worried about the consequences of these outrageous gas prices. Also tired of being ripped off. Thanks again.
Relly, Palo Alto
Thank you for your email message titled "Investigate Spiking Gas Prices in California". In my view, even $5 a gallon is too cheap. Burning gasoline damages our climate, and coping with that damage will be far more expensive.
Neal, Pasadena
Even is there were a shortage of gas, that’s no reason to let the price of gas go as high as it is. This is price gouging. Governor Brown has helped some bringing in winter gas early. I just wonder how much more profit the gas co`s have made this year. It just isnt fair. I have cut my buying to $20.00 for around 4 gallon per week. I dont go very far, just essentials places.
Edward, San Bernardino
Thank you for looking out for us! Please consider drafting a new law requiring oil companies to build additional refineries as the population increases to keep up with demand. And then require them to build one more that can go online in case of an emergency so this won't happen again. The oil companies should be required to use their money and NOT be allowed to raise prices on US to pay for it as they are investing in their own business. These oil company executives should be required to lower the price of gasoline within a similar time frame that they raised it. One of the patterns I've noticed is that the price goes up very fast and when it goes down it's always a LOT slower.
Bruce, Oxnard
Thank you for taking this bold stand against the gas industry's repeated gouging of California citizens and visitors. Although nothing may come of it, the working class and retired seniors living on very limited means applaud you for this act.
Mark, Fremont
Thank you for addressing this issue. It will certainly cause a hardship for our family. We already were paying almost $1000 a month in gas. My husband just got his work truck and gas card back last week and we were looking forward to saving money. We appreciate all you do.
Susan, Alta Loma
Thank you so much, Senator, for looking into this situation. It just "feels wrong" with oil prices where they are right now. I just do not trust the oil companies - not to mention the traders and speculators who make huge profits at the expense of regular consumers. Please keep us informed of what comes of this inquiry.
Debra, Long Beach
It is my feeling that because of our energy crisis, increase in fuel prices. That you need to back off and cut some of the regulations we have in place. The main reason gas is so high in California is because the fuel companies have been regulated to death. California now is an average of .50 cents a gallon more than Arizona. Any new taxes or fines we stick the energy companies with gets transferred to the consumer. Right now we need more immediate solutions to our energy problems, as well as more sources.
Ed, Mission Viejo
Thank you Senator for taking the steps toward investigating the thugs that bully the California people and economy. I believe a civil suit is in order, and regulation of those who are clearly out of control with their 'speculative' pricing. There needs to be accountability, and there's nothing better than a financial motivator (civil suit) to gain traction. Thank you for your efforts, I hope it helps.
Marc, Santa Rosa
I applaud your letter to A/G Holder & I hope it gets some action. I also hope that this isn't being done just for the publicity it may generate. It is pretty obvious that no one in Congress wants to rock the boat when it comes to taking on Big Oil & the speculators. A lot of bluster & threats take place but nothing of any consequence ever gets done & the laws stay the same. Again, I appreciate your writing to A/G Holder & we'll all be watching to see if anything comes of it!
Bob, Windsor
thank you for speaking up on this. we have been ripped off for years by the oil companies, and there seems to be no regulation on this. it's about time that this should be investigated. they have record profits and somehow get away with arbitrarily raising prices. the reasons we've been given for years are totally bogus. please see this through until we get resolution. i doubt we will see rebates, but the thievery has to stop.
Jean, Berkeley
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for initiating the investigation into the recent spike in gas prices. It is completely unnecessary and really hurts California families in the most fundamental ways possible. We all have to get to work or to church or to school. Most of us don't live close enough to walk or take public transportation - it simply isn't the nature of our state. We are a state of roads and freeways - and the petroleum industry is well aware of that. So, thank you. I don't know if any help will come from it, but it is good to know someone is at least trying.
Dawn, El Cajon
As someone who tries very hard to conserve fuel, I find it difficult to believe there is a "good" reason for the price fluctuation. You have my support and my gratitude.
Angela, Oakland
I appreciate you taking action on the gas crisis we are experiencing in California.
Carol, Roseville
I tend to agree with you. It seems amazing convenient that these issues with refineries are going on so close to the election and the oil companies are being given air time to make this a referandom on California's clean fuel/air regulations. Just all too convenient and suspect in my view. The price gouging is in spite of the consumer and would it kill them to put a tiny dent in their profits for the better good? Best regards,
Jana, Valencia
It's great that you would like to investigate why gasoline prices have spiked in California, but honestly you need to do something about it. Many of us are tired of just saying you're looking into it, you need to act where it can help consumers. What I've seen in the past is that the oil companies are fined, which gives money to the government, isn't that too at the expense of the California consumer? Do something that allows us to get a rebate from the oil companies that we patronize. I can prove how much gas I purchase, so give me a option to get a rebate. Your talk needs to be action that consumers can feel and benefit from. Thanks...
Robert, Pleasant Hill
What I find disturbing is that as consumers we are paying for Chevron's errors. What incentive does Chevron have to correct its behavior when we, not Chevron, carry the cost and financial burdon of its mistakes? There is no accountability where it counts - in Chevron's, not our, pocketbooks. make Chevron pay for its mistakes. not us. as it stands now Chevron is profiting from this crisis.
Lois, Richmond
And when you find that they are manipulating the market, then what? There are no regulations in the oil industry, because they give too much money to politicians. Heck, they've written legislation to give themselves our tax money in subsidies no matter how much money they make in profits. We had eight years of oil men running this country and look where it's gotten us. We're still cleaning up the mess. Nothing will ever change until the LOBBYING MONEY is taken out of the political process.
Gale, Sana Rosa
We understand the refinery fires have contributed, but with them happening much more frequently, it begs the question of whether the refinery is kept in good condition or is negligence to blame. It is SO disheartening to be paying such high prices when the oil companies continually report such high profits. Keep the pressure on for more disclosure. Thank you!
Margaret, San Jose
Thank you for the email message that you are investigating the recent surge in prices at the pump! These past weeks have seen ridiculous increases and your efforts are appreciated.
Pam, Livermore
Thank you for your fight against high gas prices. As I am now retired and on a fixed income, it seems as the plethora of propositions to raise taxes along with the arbitrary raising of gasoline prices is going to put a serious danger to my ability to travel to places that are mandatory for me to visit for medical reasons. I seriously question the nebulous reasons given for the increases at the pump. And while I and my wife have curtailed trips such as visits to the children and grandchildren it would be nice to resume such pleasures. Therefore I beseech you to be be most aggressive in your quest to investigate the reasons for gasoline cost increases.
Robert, Palmdale
With all do respect rather than trying to kick the big oil folks why are you not looking at the California Air Resource Board? With cap and trade bill 32 about to be implemented what choice do they have but to pass the cost onto the consumer. Why do we have California only fuel? Why do we put Ethanol in are fuel? Why is Chevron not being given permits to rebuild the fire damage? These are questions that we the people of California need answers to.
Jim, Galt
It wouldn't surprise me if you discovered that someone with a hand on the gas valves decided that making life more difficult for Californians might persuade some they need to vote for a new President. Just like the Republican Congress members' vow in 2008 to oppose any and all proposals of the Obama administration, some think undermining the social peace sheds a bad light on the current administration. I say such actions threaten the American democracy.
David, Sacramento
Rental Car Safety
Californians respond to my message on Improving Rental Car Safety:I truly appreciate your efforts and success on behalf of consumers who rent automobiles from car rental agencies. I feel especially happy about this because of my annual trips to Tennessee, where I rent a car from Enterprise. Knowing that autos subject to recall will no longer be available for rental or purchase is a source of great comfort to me, as I have, in the past, wound up with a Toyota Corolla, only to have lingering questions about the vehicle's safety.
Linda, Fremont
I just wanted to take a minute to say thanks to you for working so hard on behalf of "US" the 47% and for all your efforts on keeping the car rental companies honest.
Ronnie, Duarte
Thank you so much for working on this safety issue for all of us. Your success with the car rental community is much appreciated!
Mary, Rancho Palos Verdes
Thank you, Senator Boxer, for sponsoring this safety feature; I hadn't realized that rental cars were not already checked for company recalls before being rented to the public.
Josephine, San Diego
Our nation is facing numerous difficulties, not the least is the Federal Reserve printing dollars like they are toilet paper (and pretty soon that is exactly what they will be worth, nothing). So you are proud of a new government regulation. Why? Is this a proper function of the Federal Government? Why would this not be addressed sufficiently within the Universal Commercial Code or currently existing laws?
James, Fullerton
Rental Rules
That's a good idea! I never would of thought of it. Safety is the role of government.
Michael, Montclair
Congratulations for getting this common sense legislation passed. It's unbelieveable that companies can ignore recall notices for life threatening defects. Once again corporate profit wins over consumer safety.
Richard, La Mesa
It's nice to know that you are "on the job". Thanks for taking care of this for us. I'm amazed that you knew that this was even a problem!
Paul, Big Bear Lake
Seems so obvious. Guess Enterprise was a little too enterprising with free enterprise.
Timothy, Sacramento
Thank you for helping to make our world safer.
Barbara, Cambria
Californians respond to my message on Protecting Drivers from Unsafe Rental Cars:
This sounds like common sense. Glad to see this made clear by legislation. Hope you get the needed votes to pass.
Lawrence, Los Angeles
Thank you very much for proposing a bill to require car rental companies to rent safe rental cars only.
Reyna, Sacramento
The subject of this act has been ignored far too long. Many will benefit and far less will loose.
Nancie, Simi Valley
It is not necessary to write a law that prohibits car rental companies from renting a car that is under recall. That is bad business practice and we don't need a law to tell us that. Let the automakers and car rental companies work this out in the contracts between them. Please spend your time on bills that can make a difference in the long term creativity and productivity that this nation excels at. For example, the law that phased out incandenscent bulbs. It sparked innovations and is yielding significant cost savings and helps reduce CO2 emissions.
Brian, Dove Canyon
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Voter ID Laws
Californians respond to my message on Stopping Voter Intimidation:Voter Suppression is one of my biggest worries about this coming election. After the fiasco of Bush/Gore, it's apparent that 'stealing' an election is entirely possible...if it can't be bought..
Susan, Los Angeles
May I thank you, and also encourage you, in your efforts stop voter suppression. If the right to vote can be curtailed by the actions of a lunatic fringe, it could be the end of our country.
Nancy, West Point
Please keep taking action on this subject, so that we keep at least some control of our precious democracy. Thanks for staying in this stressful job.
Jan, Cambria
I agree with you 100%, that we need every citizen to vote, it is a privilage that we take for granted. But we must make sure that we do not have voter fraud, i see nothing wrong with voter I.D. I think it is a move in the right direction for every American, and to take this right seriously and treat it with the upmost respect. As an American I am proud to Vote and am not intimidated in anyway to show my I.D.
Michael, Chino
Your email was extremely offensive. Middle aged conservatives are too busy working at their jobs to suppress the votes of the career welfare recipients we support. Thank you for the reminder that I must work harder to get your liberal ilk out of office.
Lesley, Santa Maria
Thank you very much for calling on the U.S. Department of Justice to enforce voting rights laws following new reports of widespread efforts by Tea Party-linked groups to intimidate voters and suppress the vote, particularly in low-income and minority neighborhoods. It is gratifying to see increasing attention and action against this egregious effort to disenfranchise low-income and minority voters.
Evan, Long Beach
Thank you for demanding investigation (and prosecution) of tea party Republicans across the nation engaged in voter suppression. It is cynical, craven, un-American, un-democratic, and downright treasonous for a major political party to engage in coordinated activities to undermine our constitutional amendments and voting rights laws, and keep US citizens from exercising their right to vote.
Walter, Los Angeles
I just want to thank you for speaking out on this issue and for taking action. I am both appalled and very, very angry that the fundamental right to vote is being threatened in so many ways in this election cycle, and I very much appreciate your efforts to fight against intimidation and disenfranchisement.
Robert, San Francisco
Azerbaijan
Californians respond to my message on Pressing Azerbaijan over Outrageous Pardon:Thank you for sending the letter to the president of Azerbaijan expressing outrage over the pardon of the murderer of an Armenian soldier taking a NATO language course. We share your outrage and believe in speaking out against such atrocities.
Ian, Sausalito
Thanks. This was an outrage and needed to be addressed.
Ed, San Jose
As a veteran, please let me express my sincere gratitude not only for your actions in this instance, but your never-ending commitment to both my brothers and sisters in arms as well as the veterans.
Jack, Moreno Valley
As an Armenian American, I appreciate you doing the right thing showing your outrage at the Hungarian government for releasing a (convicted in Hungarian court) Azeri Axe Murderer, an officer in the Azeri army, no less. He was pardoned upon touching foot in Azerbaijan, despite promises made to Hungary that he would be imprisoned. He was welcomed in his homeland as a national hero for his cold blooded murder of an Armenian Officer in a hotel room during joint NATO exercises in Hungary! I hope your vigilance and outspoken stand will bear some positive fruit and that justice will be done.
Bedros, Pleasanton
Bravo and thank you for taking action and writing a protest to President Aliyev!
Bruce, Los Angeles
Thank you for writing that strong letter to the head crook of Azerbaijan about releasing the murder of the Armenian. The murderer return to feverish acclaim! Few other legislators would bother with such an "obscure" matter, so I am glad to see you are on top of it.
Sara, Santa Monica
Thank you for your proactive message to President Aliyev.
Fred, Hacienda Heights
Older Americans Act
Californians respond to my message on Strengthening the Older Americans Act:As I am 68 y/old I had no idea about this and was very glad to learn of it.
Sharon, Martinez
Thank you for working on the new Sanders bill (S.3562), which includes your Caring for an Aging America Act. It is my understanding that these combined proposals pursue legislation to update and continue the Older Americans Act (OAA) and related programs as well as to implement new ones. We need it! Younger adults reading this, be aware! Aging takes one by surprise and life can turn on a dime! For example, it seems only yesterday that I played tennis; biked; rode horses; escorted my children to music lessons, the library, and parks; did the room mother thing; attended college courses part time; worked at technical/science writing and editing; and, I could easily go on. However, now, I find myself 69 years of age, disabled, receiving "Meals on Wheels", and living on Social Security! My life has completely changed in ways I had not dreamed of, because I am older and disabled. Believe me when I say that I am so grateful for the senior services/help I receive. And, I know many other seniors who are, too. We do need updated policies and procedures in place to assist our increasing senior population with the latest in treatments, trained caregivers, and protections. Better sooner than later!
Shayla, Anaheim
Thank you for taking the initiative to support health care professionals and others to receive training in gerontology. It is important that we as a nation care for all older Americans. This population has much to give to our country both in time as volunteers and in wisdom of experience and knowledge they have gained throughout their lives. Healthcare, housing, spiritual and social needs are crucial areas where older Americans need support from those who understand this stage of life. Thank you for working on this bill.
Portia, San Jose
I am 74 and a retired blue collar worker. Sounds like S3562 is another entitlement bill. What ever happened to those greatest of American traits - personal responsibility and self reliance? Everyone has their whole working life to prepare for their old age. Shame on them if they did not prepare and just lived for the moment!!
John, Fairfield
Thank you so much for your leadership in reauthorizing the Older Americans Act. I appreciate your support of Senator Sanders and this crucial bill for our seniors.
Clay, Aptos
Thank you for your good work in the Senate and for co-sponsoring the act to protect seniors. I feel I can rely on you to support legislation that is good for the people in general and for the more fragile of us in particular.
LaVern, Anaheim
Thank you for your continued support of senior citizens needing assistance in staying in their homes. I am a retired RN and did Home Health Care for a year. The quality of life and the happiness of the people living at home with some support are much happier and much healthier than those in care facilities. Keep up the good work. I am now a senior citizen and hope to be able to stay in my home until I die.
Carol, Nipomo
Thank you so much for your hard work in passing this important legislation. Please know that we are behind you on S3562.
Esther, Santa Clara
You sent me a note regarding welfare to older citizens. While this is very helpful to many people but do you ever consider priorities when you introduce legislation? You people in congress are able to find lots of ways to send money without regard to budget and deficits. Please stop looking for ways to spend our tax dollars and start looking for ways to reduce spending by determining priorities. While this requires tough decisions it is the way to run households and government.
Delvin, Danville
Thank you so much for working with Bernie Sanders on this bill...I thank God for the two of you! I know you have my interests at heart and the interests of all your constituents.
MaryJane, Rancho Cordova
I totally support you efforts to reauthorize and update the Older Americans Act (OAA). Thank you for this important work.
Jacqueline, Livermore
Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands
Californians respond to my message on Protecting the Coast and Creating Jobs in Mendocino County:Just a quick note to say thank you for your efforts to include Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands in Mendocino County in the California Coastal National Monument.
Chris, Vista
Thank you for introducing legislation to expand the boundary of the California Coastal National Monument to include the Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands in Mendocino County!
Silka, San Diego
Excellent Idea!
Frank, Fullerton
Our state is so fortunate to possess many natural locales that are breathtakingly beautiful and home to so many species of plants and animals. And the coastline is very much a part of California's spectacular environmental treasures. I am very pleased by your conservation efforts.
Susan, San Carlos
Thank you Boxer and Feinstein for introducing legislation to add Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands in Mendocino County to the California Coastal National Monument. This means so much to the residents of this county and is important in preserving our beautiful state coastline. And while I have your attention, thank you for all you do in representing women, women's rights, education, healthcare, and California environmental issues. Thank you.
Pat, Gualala
You must stop taking our land and claiming it for government control.
Julia, San Juan Capistrano
Thank you for trying to save this beautiful area for generations of Americans and visitors to enjoy. Also, thank you for keeping me up to date on what you feel is noteworthy.
Carol, San Carlos
The California coast is a treasure that should be preserved for all. The beauty of this endangered if we do not put measures in place to keep this marvelous area pristine, but the wonderful wildlife would be at risk, as well.
Sharlene, Rough and Ready
Since I grew up in Mendocino County, I am especially glad to see your proposed legislation to protect its beauty and create jobs there. I hope to return "home" one day.
Carol, Roseville
Passengers with Disabilities
Californians respond to my message on Protecting Airline Passengers with Disabilities:I applaud you for your response to the recent airline incident involving the young man with Down syndrome and his family members. Individuals with disabilities are often overlooked by policy makers. The fact that you were not only responsive to the need but also shared this situation with your constituents is valuable in increasing the public's awareness of this type of injustice. As the director of a foundation that focuses its efforts on promoting health care access to adults with developmental disabilities, I do not see this level of concern expressed by legislators very often. Thank you for caring for those who deserve greater respect and attention. You truly represent "the people".
Lynne, East Palo Alto
Aside from the inconvenience caused when anyone's trip is delayed unnecessarily, those of us in the non-handicapped world often have no idea just how much hurt and embarrassment we can cause to the handicapped and their families. Often, in cases like this, a lot of preparation has gone into making the person feel capable of making the trip -- and it is all undone by a moment's thoughtless response.
Dawn, Fountain Valley
Thank you for taking your time to write a letter to the U.S. Air Transportation Secretary. When I read about this family's experience while trying to fly, I was shocked. I do not understand how this group of airline staff can be so very ignorant with regard to Downs Syndrome. Training is certainly needed.
Francia, Visalia
Hello I am deaf lady. Any Airline should have respect to hearing impaired passengers while they go to any airline. The flight attendents should learn to respect us, deaf/hard of hearing passengers and explain the messages whenever the flight attendents and the pilots make the announcement in the plane flight (public announcement). Thanks,
Susan, West Covina
Thank you for your action, we are disabled too wife is deaf and oxygen bottle user with pacemaker and I myself am deaf too. We had bad experience with airline service in past as we did not make big noise as down syndrome boy's parent did. In fact every airline system need to learn about any kind of disabilities. I appreicate your action on behalf of all disabilities.
Arthur, Sacramento
In 1976 I was on a flight out of Oakland to Southern CA. I realized as I boarded the plane that many of the other passengers were teenagers with Down Syndrome and other disabilities. I believe they were headed to the Special Olympics. The stewardess was wonderful. She gave them candy and wings they could pin on their shirts. She talked to them, played games with them, and kept them entertained all the way. At the time I thought she deserved a special commendation. I'm sorry that not all airline personnel have her wonderful gift. Thank you for the legislation defending the rights of the disabled.
Barbara, Pleasanton
If that happened to me I would use another airline. Why do we need the government to intervene?
Stacy, Angels Camp
Thank you for your efforts in response to the incident of the person with Down Syndrome, and for your efforts to see that all people with disabilities have the opportunities to live, work, and travel at will. Your work is not going unrecognized or unappreciated by your constituents, even if we seldom respond to what you accomplish.
William, San Jose
Violence Against Women Act
Californians respond to my message on Protecting All Women from Domestic Violence:Thank you for you continued support of Women’s issues. We are all in this battle together & I appreciate you standing up against the misogynists in Congress!!!
Penelope, Grass Valley
Thanks Barbara Boxer for all you do in the area of protecting women who are abused by supporting legislation which helps and/or supports prevention and intervention. We need more consequences for abusers - our state has moved us back 10 years in the legislation and laws that now allow victims to be revictimized by courts who make her face her abuser or they won't prosecute. So sad that we worked so hard to move forward and laws keep us down and back 10 years.
Kathie, Panorama City
Thank you for your unwavering support of the renewal and strengthening of the Violence Against Women Act. I am proud that you represent me in the Senate and that you have consistently represented the best of California.
Angela, Oakland
Auto Safety
Californians respond to my message on Protecting Drivers from Unsafe Rental Cars:This sounds like common sense. Glad to see this made clear by legislation. Hope you get the needed votes to pass.
Lawrence, Los Angeles
Thank you very much for proposing a bill to require car rental companies to rent safe rental cars only.
Reyna, Sacramento
The subject of this act has been ignored far too long. Many will benefit and far less will loose.
Nancie, Simi Valley
It is not necessary to write a law that prohibits car rental companies from renting a car that is under recall. That is bad business practice and we don't need a law to tell us that. Let the automakers and car rental companies work this out in the contracts between them. Please spend your time on bills that can make a difference in the long term creativity and productivity that this nation excels at. For example, the law that phased out incandenscent bulbs. It sparked innovations and is yielding significant cost savings and helps reduce CO2 emissions.
Brian, Dove Canyon
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Hate Crimes
Californians respond to my message on Tracking Hate Crimes Against Sikh Americans:Thank you for creating a bipartisan statement about stopping Hate Crimes. Our nation was founded on diversity especially in our individual faiths. As a Christian and a parent of a daughter who works internationally I see the effects of tolerance and intolerance in the world up close. We must as a national policy continue to promote tolerance and stop hate crimes.
Martha, Mill Valley
I am american Sikh I am us citizen.I appreciate the steps taken by us govt. after the innocent sikhs killings.Media and govt do a good job to console us. The only problem is of the mistaken identity of the sikhs. This incident help us to make our identy as a different sect.IN this country people have lack of general knoweldge. Policeman MR MURFY WILL BE OUR HERO.His name will be written golden pages in our history. our communty can not repay his debt the job he done to save many lives. If he dont come on time and did not put his life in risk the causalities would be hundreds.We respect our contitution and its law. We welfare unto all is our motto of our religion. We respect everybody in this country. I am also thankful honorable senator Barbara for helping American Sikhs.
Buta Singh, Tustin
I applaud you on taking the lead and doing something about the trend in hate crimes aimed at the Sikh community. These people have the right to worship as they see fit, dress as they see fit, and live peaceably among us. The tragedy that occurred in Wisconsin was terribly played down, if it had been a Protestant Church we'd most likely have seen a greater out-cry. ALL faiths are to be equally protected under the Constitution, ALL. You believe in this, and I want to commend you. Renee, Rancho Santa Margarita
When I got your email about tracking attacks on Sikhs, I was so proud that my Senator from California was working to stop hate crimes. I think there are more hate crimes now than there were 12 years ago due to the attacks on September 11, 2001, several states adopting same-sex marriage and through the election of President Obama. People can't seem to help themselves in their daily rhetoric about people they have always hated but weren't saying anything until they were forced to when they felt that their control was being stolen from them. Now they are trying to control women's health care choices. I know we are being watched by the World and people see how backward we are becoming and how weak that makes us on the world stage.
Merrily, San Diego
As usual, you are always at the forefront of ensuring equality, fairness and protections for all Americans. I applaud your request to the Attorney General for the collection and tracking of data on hate crimes committed against Sikh Americans. Hate crimes must never be tolerated.
Glenn, North Hollywood
I doubt the attacks were specifically directed at Sikhs, but rather at someone who looked different. In this case, someone wearing a turban. It would do most Americans a world of good to learn about other cultures. To get to know immigrants in their own communities - refugees perhaps. Or to visit other countries with a dictionary and a smile instead of tanks and guns.
Linda, San Diego
Thank you for putting in the effort to bring this hate crime to light. I appreciate all you do for your California constituents and you ALWAYS have my vote! Thank you!
Holly, Corralitos
I fully support your call to have AG Holder investigate hate crimes against the Sikh community. I would also strongly encourage you to call for stepped-up investigations of all domestic hate and terrorist groups. I realize that the Republicans in Congress have pushed back on these types of investigations but the significant increase in the number of these groups poses a serious threat to the domestic security of the United States. Not only are their numbers growing but their hateful rhetoric and stockpiling of weapons make these groups a more serious threat than any foreign terrorist organization. I hope that you will take my comments into serious consideration and urge the expansion of the Attorney General's investigations.
David, Carlsbad
Why not urge the Attorney General to take prompt action to ensure that hate crimes against "Americans" are recorded and tracked so that law enforcement can better allocate the resources needed to prevent and respond to these terrible crimes. Why single out just one class of people (citizen and non-citizen).
Douglas, Paramount
Thanks for your efforts ....... Being a Sikh myself, I do appreciate it ...
Nirmal, North Hills
Thanks for your note about violence against Muslims. How about sponsoring a bill that deals with violence against Christians? With as much hate as there is in America, I think we need to return to our core Christian values, which would mean that there would be no "hate" crimes against anyone. So, how about sponsoring a bill that would encourage traditional marriages and nuclear families? That would solve a lot of our problems and give you a lot more free time.
Jim, Folsom
There is a large Sikh Temple just north of Berkeley. Many Sikhs are taxi drivers; one was shot in the State Capitol City, Sacramento. We should not be attacking any population group!
Marion, Oakland
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Fort Ord National Monument
Californians respond to my message on Senator Boxer Visits Fort Ord:Growing up in Watsonville and traveling through the area of Fort Ord recalls many happy childhood memories. Your attention to holding this land for future visitors and residents makes it possible to enjoy a part of California that is natural and coastal. Where there are now hotels there used to be sand dunes which I always found fun and sometimes impossible to climb. My cousins, aunts and uncles found our conquest of the dunes time for laughter playfulness. Preserving what still remains is commendable. Thank you for your oversight and attention to my homeland.
Soto, Alice J., Costa Mesa
Perserving the old Fort Ord by turning it into a national museum was so smart. Thank you for your part in getting this to happen. I appreciate your good works and I am in awe of the hours you put in to get "things" done. This does not go unnoticed by me.
Merlys, Modesto
I grew up in the Monterey Peninsula and witnessed all of the Army Service People that went through training there. Including my best friend, raised in Seaside, also trained there. Unfortunately he perished one week after he was deployed to Vietnam in the hands of the North Vietnamese and Vietcongs! Fort Ord, indeed, is an historical monument manifesting all the carnages suffered by our military thru all the post World War II battles our USA have endured. Preserving Fort Ord will be a little gratitude we could extend to all our service people that gave the "ultimate sacrifice" to preserve and continue the "freedom" lots of us enjoy, notwithstanding, overlook daily. As a former Vietnam Air Force Veteran, I salute you for your passion.
Dan, Carmel
As a Vietnam era vet, I am extremely pleased that you are taking an interest in veterans. I would like to tell you that you should do more of the kind of work that involves veterans, and make it known publicly. We – vets - need more politicians who are interested in veterans affairs. We gave it our all and you should too. Respectfully
Joe
Thank you for helping to get National Monument designation for this site! Thanks too, for your continued hard work on behalf of America's people.
Diane, Sacramento
Thank you for taking the initiative to create a National Monument at Fort Ord to honor our veterans and for all to enjoy. Our family appreciates your support of environmental issues.
Silka, San Diego
Thank you for your support of Ford Ord, the three-fold asset to CA, the veterans, and the nation. It is deeply appreciated.
Diana, Redding
Although I commend you and others for helping to keep and preserve Fort Ord to commemorate our military. However, the best commemoration would be to make sure our troops have jobs to come home to and adequate mental and physical health care for all the troops. National monuments, no matter how important, will not feed nor provide adequate healthcare for our fathers, mothers, daughters/sons and granchildren.
Ursula, Sanger
Thank you for information on your trip to Fort Ord and its dedication. I think this is a good action and am very pleased to have you for our Senator you are very responsible and hardworking an outstanding Senator.
Maryan Wokas, Lincoln
Thank you for the Fort Ord photos. My family spent over four wonderful years there in the mid-to-late 1970's. It was a nice trip down memory lane to remember those times. I am delighted that 15,000 acres have become a National Monument.
Helene, Bonsall
As a Vietnam veteran who trained at Fort Ord, I appreciate the fact that Senator Boxer gave her enthusiastic support to the proposal to turn the area into a National Monument. The Fort Ord experience binds many veterans over many years, and seeing it fall into a decaying state of limbo after its closure saddened me, and I'm sure, bothered other veterans as well. At age 66 I still delight in the notion that I may still visit this place of memories, and hike the back country where we were "tortured" into a physical condition, never again to be equaled (for most of us) for the rest of our lives. This is a prime example of how a government that represents the common man is so necessary. In the other extreme rampant capitalism, in the form of greedy land developers, would have turned those lands into whatever would turn a fast buck. Thanks to Senator Boxer, and others, the true meaning of that special place will be preserved and respected!
Robert, Ukiah
My father trained at Fort Ord and I still believe it is a complete waste of money to designate this place to a National Monument or any other Govt owned money pitt. Don't you get it Senator Boxter? We are broke! Stop spending ANY money on non-essentials.
Dan, Santa Cruz
Thank you for preserving the land that housed Ft. Ord. I trained at Ft. Ord for basic and advanced infantry and was sent to Fort Benning in Georgia. I am a Vietnam combat veteran and the training I received at Ft. Ord help keep me alive in Vietnam. Again thank you for your service to our country.
Jay, Culver City
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Deferred Action
Californians respond to my message on Allowing Talented Young People to Stay in This Country:Thank you, thank you! As a retired teacher I can appreciate what a wonderful thing you have done. Thanks again.
Bob, Crestline
It saddens me to hear people complain about the younger immigrants being able to stay here. I think, what if my parents brought me here when I was 3 ys old and I was sent back to a country I didn't know when I was eighteen. I think of all the confusion and panic I would feel. As long as these young adults are not in trouble and are working hard to contribute to the country they live in, let them stay.
Kris, Loma Linda
Thanks, Senator Boxer, for continuing to help illegal children of non-citizens (Dreamers0. I'm a Jewish-American citizen and not so long ago, my grandparents emigrated from Eastern Europe. I want Dreamers to gain citizenship as quickly as possible so that they're free from fear and free to build their lives in the U.S. and continue to contribute to our society.
Alexandra, La Crescenta
Thank You for supporting the Dream Act and making it a reality for the myriad of children and adults left in limbo.
Geri, Modesto
At the time that schools,city colleges,universities are closing or offering less class where our own US Citizens and legal residents are finding very difficult to attend, we US tax payers are encouraging ILLEGAL inmigrants to take the place of our people. THIS IS WRONG.
Enrique, Pleasanton
Thanks for the news about Deferred Action. I, like many others in too much of a hurry to read completely, leaped to the conclusion that it was the Dream act that had become reality. Today I read more of the particulars, and realize it is a policy that could be eliminated the day a different president takes office. I wonder now if it is safe for anyone to fully follow the process if s/he is not already in a sticky situation, or if in starting the process one will simply expose oneself more to scrutiny. I really have to admire kids who, despite growing up with the threat of deportation of themselves or loved ones, to a place they may never have known since infancy, have learned to think, persevere, and develop community interests like many I have met. I'm proud to accept them as part of my "tribe" and don't want them deported. Thanks for working for them, please continue to.
Iris, Sebastopol
Why do we continue to award people for breaking our laws. We might as well empty our jails.
Richard, Moreno Valley
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Sally Ride
Californians respond to my message on Honoring Sally Ride:Thank you for honoring Sally Ride and introducing this bill.
Silka, San Diego
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Women Peacemakers
Californians respond to my message on Ensuring Women’s Involvement in Conflict Resolution:I have been involved in this issue of decades around the world and along with organizations which have done tremendous work to expand and improve women's role in peace making and to prevent violations against women and female children in the war zones and in political conflict areas around the world. I SUPPORT YOUR BILL FULLY.
Zohreh, San Juan Capistrano
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Preventive Health Care Coverage for Women
Californians respond to my message on New Preventive Health Care Coverage for Women:I am so pleased about the new health care benefits and future benefits for my self-insured son and granddaughter. I am confident that it will make a difference in the November election. Who would vote for those that want to repeal it?
Beth Wyman, Morgan Hill
You are preaching to the choir on this one. The democratic party needs to do a better job of reaching out and educating ALL WOMEN about how they'll benefit and EVERYONE else too---let's debunk the myths and present the facts---even though the Repugs ignore those facts---we need to wake up the indy fence-sitters and get out the vote! Thank you,
Beth, San Diego
Thank you for all you do, especially fighting for better health care for women.
Karen, Canyon Country
I am a single mother of two and half of my paycheck goes to pay for health care premiums. My employer pays 1/3 of the total cost, but 2/3 of the cost comes out of my paycheck. I feel as a parent having health care insurance for my children is very important. I have always felt that the socialized health care they have in England (which has worked for a very long time) should be a role model for the United States. I don't want to worry that my children or I can't go see the doctor because I can't afford the co-pay. I believe we may be on the right track and I feel that the Affordable Care Act can help, but will it be too little too late? I hope not. I believe in President Obama and in you. Sincerely,
Barbara, Livermore
I want to thank you so much for your relentless efforts to reform health care for all of us, and at this point, especially for women. I often fear a dark future ahead with the climate, constant war, paucity of jobs, and the terrible economy; I worry about my children's future. The changes in health care are the only bright spot at this time. The Republi-CAN'Ts are so appalling-- they never used to be this way. I just never know what they'll try next to keep most of the population down. They are so out of tune with the PEOPLE. You and Senator Feinstein give me hope. Thank you for all you do.
Simone, Helendale
You said that these services are free. They are NOT free, someone has to pay the bill. Todays Democrat party is creating a whole group of perpetually dependent people. This may be well intentioned but in the long run is pure socialism and contrary to the sensibilities of all Americans. People are getting very fed up with this spending and march toward socialism and it will be seen in the upcoming elections. Thank you for letting me vent. Respectfully,
Gerald, Palmdale
