We are longtime advocates for a prosperous region and usually agree with U-T San Diego editorials. However, we wholeheartedly disagree with “Carl DeMaio for Congress” (May 18)).
As former chairmen of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, we’ve worked with and known Rep. Scott Peters for over a decade. He’s an articulate, smart, effective advocate for jobs and quality of life, and we’re fortunate to have him representing us in Congress. He’s a moderate who understands all points of view and matches the district better than any candidate in the race.
He’s proven that even a freshman from the minority party can make a difference with the right approach. Working with Republicans and Democrats, he led the effort to gain $226 million in transportation and border security investment for our region, the top jobs priority for the Chamber of Commerce. He worked with Rep. Duncan Hunter in the House Armed Services Committee to move $120 million from a wasteful earmark in South Carolina to the purchase of equipment the Air Force actually needs that will be built in Poway, creating jobs there. He was a leading proponent of an amendment in the defense budget to help small defense contractors compete for business. And he’s been the most visible advocate for federal investment in medical research funding, wireless health, alternative energy and support for veterans our Congressional delegation has had. In fact, Peters was one of only two to earn the “visionary award” from the California Healthcare Institute.
He is a dedicated, principled public servant who’s volunteered to help others and has led by example. He helped pass the No Budget No Pay law to make members of Congress play by the same rules as the rest of America. He refused the Congressional health care and pension and donated his pay during the shutdown to local charities.
He was rated one of the most independent members of Congress by the National Journal because he’s willing to vote against his party when it’s in the best interest of the country or the district. He voted with Republicans to allow people to keep their health insurance if they like it and for other fixes to the new health care law, such as the repeal of the medical-device excise tax, which hurts local jobs. He’s a fierce advocate for equality, civil rights, voting rights, women’s rights and environmental protection. And though strongly supported by national environmental groups, he voted for tough regulatory reforms to increase certainty and reduce delays for businesses.
Peters is not a grandstander or driven by political ambition. He’s a thoughtful collaborator who listens to find solutions. Wherever he’s served, his colleagues have chosen him as a leader — as City Council president and Port Commission chairman. Scott has already proven himself a leader in Washington. He is exactly what we need more of in Congress. He’s earned our support and deserves re-election.
Mel Katz and Phil Blair,
Executive officers, Manpower
Former chairmen, S.D. Regional Chamber of Commerce
Original link: http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/may/24/peters-demaio/