Corrupt theft of taxpayers’ money
The collusion between Trump and the Department of Justice to distribute $1.8 billion in taxpayers’ money to reward the rioters who sought to overturn the 2020 presidential election, is the most corrupt theft of taxpayers’ money in history.
But wait there’s more. There is also an agreement by the DOJ to never investigate, indict, or prosecute Trump, his family, or his businesses now or in the future. In other words, even after he is out of office, he will be able to commit federal crimes, treason, counterfeiting, racketeering …with impunity.
Think that’s bad? It gets worse. The $1.8 billion slush fund has no limits on who can be secretly paid from the fund. That means if the 2028 presidential election isn’t going Trump’s way, he can not only pardon whomever commits federal crimes on his behalf, he can pay them off for committing those crimes with no record of it. They’ll not only go free; they’ll go rich. What will you do after Trump confiscates the ballots in November 2028?
Brent Meeker, Camarillo
Proudly supporting Parvin
As president of the Ventura County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association (VCDSA), I have seen firsthand the difference strong, steady leadership can make in keeping our communities safe. That is why the VCDSA proudly supports Supervisor Janice Parvin for re-election in District 4.
Supervisor Parvin has demonstrated a consistent commitment to public safety throughout her service on the Moorpark City Council and the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. She understands the realities faced by first responders, supports responsible public safety funding, and works collaboratively to ensure our deputies, firefighters, and emergency personnel have the resources necessary to do their jobs. Her leadership reflects experience, balance, and a clear understanding of the needs of Ventura County families.
Voters also deserve clarity and transparency in the information presented during election season. A recent campaign advertisement circulated by her opponent, Ruth Luevanos, raises concerns in that regard. The advertisement prominently highlights an endorsement from “Supervisor Long,” while only noting in much smaller text that the individual referenced is retired. At the same time, current Supervisor Kelly Long has publicly endorsed Janice Parvin. Additionally, claims of broad “public safety” support and prior law enforcement experience are not consistent with endorsements known within the public safety community.
Organizations directly representing law enforcement and fire personnel, including the Ventura County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, the Simi Valley Police Officers’ Association, the Ventura County Professional Peace Officers’ Association, and the Ventura County Professional Firefighters’ Association, have formally endorsed Supervisor Parvin based on her proven record.
Elections should be grounded in facts, transparency, and trust. By that standard, Supervisor Janice Parvin has earned our continued support.
Justin Doering, Moorpark
Morales is the best candidate
From a Feb. 15 story in The Star, it was reported that the Oxnard Union High School District’s financial audit found a “high probability” the district would be unable to meet its financial obligations in the upcoming year — a finding that could negatively affect the district’s bond rating and increase borrowing costs for taxpayers.
The story further noted that the district’s financial consultants described the finding as “extremely rare,” warning it could damage the district’s financial reputation for years to come. According to the auditor, with major adjustments not planned until early 2026, the district remains exposed to a widening gap between attendance-driven revenues and rising costs.
Yet rather than fully acknowledging the seriousness of the findings, board member Karen Sher was among three trustees who disputed the conclusions reached by the Ventura County Office of Education and the California State Controller’s Office. At the same time, district labor leaders publicly called for greater transparency regarding the district’s finances.
In a May 5 Star story, Ms. Sher stated that one of her priorities would be to “deliver true fiscal transparency and rebuild public trust.” Those are important goals. However, voters should carefully consider whether the current financial challenges at OUHSD reflect the kind of governance and oversight they want leading the Ventura County Office of Education.
Another concern raised by Ms. Sher involves her call for “clear ethical standards, including anti-fraternization policies to uphold professionalism and integrity.” I would remind voters of the principle: “Judge not, lest ye be judged.”
I have heard many respected voices say it is time to elect more women into leadership positions. Representation matters. But even more important is electing the candidate best prepared to lead responsibly and effectively.
For me, that candidate is Dr. Cesar Morales for Ventura County Superintendent of Schools.
Pam Cwiklo, Camarillo
Vote Espinosa for Congress
I am writing to express my strong support for Chris Espinosa in his campaign for Congress. Chris comes from a family deeply rooted in our county, with a legacy of involvement in local issues spanning decades. Growing up, he was actively engaged in campaigns alongside his parents, focusing on critical matters such as affordable housing, farm worker rights, education, and the closure of our local hospital.
Recognizing the importance of understanding national politics, Chris took his passion and commitment to a broader stage. His impressive career includes serving as Legislative Director for Earth Justice where he championed environmental justice, ensuring that our air is clean, our water is safe and that our communities are protected from adverse effects of pollution.
In his role as Director of Outreach and Engagement for the House Committee on Natural Resources, he showcased his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, amplifying the voices of those who often go unheard. In his tenure as Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of Green Latinos, National Director of Advocacy for the Hispanic Federation, and as National Director of Special Projects for LULAC, he forged partnerships and strategies to empower our youth and strengthen our communities. Each of these roles has equipped him with invaluable insights into the complexities of Washington politics.
Chris Espinosa is back home, ready to share the insights he gained and the lessons he learned in Washington. He doesn’t just bring political acumen; he brings heart. His experience in negotiation and collaboration defines him as a unique candidate — one who listens, understands, and acts with the best interests of our community at heart.
I urge everyone to support Chris Espinosa for Congress. His commitment to our community, coupled with his extensive background, makes him the ideal candidate to represent us.
Dr. Gabino Tlamatini Aguirre, Santa Paula
Don’t pay your taxes, like Trump
If the government is going give Trump a free deal on taxes, I urge everybody in this country to not pay your taxes, change your status to exempt, and don’t pay your taxes. If the IRS can’t prosecute Trump they cannot prosecute anyone. That is discrimination.
Gary Sparks, Camarillo
Espinosa can make history
I work for a food bank in Santa Paula.
Earlier this year, I heard congressional candidate Chris Espinosa speak at an event near my job. What stood out to me was that he talked directly about issues affecting people in our community: immigration enforcement, affordability, and environmental protection. He spoke about reining in ICE, protecting working families, and his involvement in addressing the Flint water crisis.
For the first time in my 22 years, I met a candidate I genuinely wanted to vote for and not simply the person who seemed like the least bad option.
As someone from lived here all my life, it’s also meaningful to see another Latino running to represent Oxnard which has been shaped by Latino families and workers for generations, and Chris Espinosa has the chance to become the first Latino representative for a community that has waited a long time to see itself reflected in Congress.
That’s why I decided to volunteer for his campaign. Less than a year out of college, it’s the first campaign I’ve ever worked on, but it’s given me a chance to help make history instead of just reading about it.
Francisco Xavier Reynoso, Oxnard
This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Stealing from taxpayers, endorsements of candidates | Letters
Reporting by Ventura County Star / Ventura County Star
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