Pombo should be praised for tough decision Dear Editor, I am
sure elected officials hear from constituents or interest groups
when they are upset, but I think we also need to praise public
officials when we are pleased.
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Pombo should be praised for tough decision
Dear Editor,
I am sure elected officials hear from constituents or interest groups when they are upset, but I think we also need to praise public officials when we are pleased. Â
This is certainly the case with our congressman, Richard Pombo. Almost regardless of where a person stood on the debate over the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), that passed the House of Representatives on the slightest of margins where every vote counted – Richard Pombo stood up to be counted. He cast a tough vote in support of Free Trade and open markets, when he knew it could not please everyone. For the parts of his district and our regional and national economy, that rely on Free Trade – such as Technology workers and companies – a yes vote was crucial. For the parts of his district and our regional and national economy, which are agriculture-based – the push was for a no vote. Richard Pombo cast a decisive yes vote, but most important, he did not duck a tough vote. Principled representation of this nature should be appreciated and applauded by all of his constituents.
Carl Guardino, President and CEO
Silicon Valley Leadership Group
