P .O. Box 5374
San Jose, CA 95150
www.lwvsjsc.org
May 22, 2023
T o: Mayor Mahan, Vice Mayor Kamei, and Councilmembers Jimenez, T orres, Cohen, Ortiz, Davis, Doan, Candelas, Foley, and Batra
cc: San Jose City Clerk
Subject: Item: 3.5; File # 23-768: Proposed Ordinance to Amend Title 12 of the San Jose Municipal Code
The League of Women Voters of San Jose/Santa Clara strongly urges the City Council to VOTE YES on the proposed ordinance to amend Title 12 of the San Jose Municipal Code.
We are pleased that San Jose has strict limits on the campaign contributions that candidates can raise while running for public office, and we believe our government will be strengthened by closing the existing loopholes that allow sitting elected officials and their staff members to bypass the intent of the City's campaign contribution limits.
The League has long-established positions on money in politics. We believe that politicians need to represent each of their constituents equally, regardless of their financial status, and that when politicians receive large financial contributions from anyone – be it a corporation, organization or individual – it can put the voice of everyday Americans at a disadvantage. We also believe that money in politics makes it harder for ordinary Americans to run for public office.
We are proud that the City of San Jose has instituted many good government measures, and we hope that you will also vote yes on this campaign finance reform ordinance amendment.
Sincerely,
Diane McNutt, President, League of Women Voters of San Jose/Santa Clara [email protected] - lwvsjsc.org