Replies

For the record. This letter to the editor appeared in Jan 24 "Bakersfield Californian":

Parra is no Dean Florez
This letter is in response to the Thomas Martinez's article contending Assemblywoman Nicole Parra deserves our support.

First of all, Martinez's blind allegiance to Parra clouds his judgment on reality regarding Parra's election.

The 30th Assembly District was made more Democratic through redistricting. Dean Florez won in 1998 by beating a Republican incumbent by almost 10 points. Florez won his re-election 2000 by 2-1, in a district that was less Democratic. Parra outspent her opponent by 10-1. Parra failed to appear at most of the forums so voters could hear what she stood for.

I'm sick and tired of people making excuses for Parra. She won by 265 votes in what is a safe Democratic district. Let's face it, her campaign was a disgrace and an embarrassment.

She talks about being a moderate and being like Florez. Nicole Parra is no Dean FLorez. She never will be and she should stop trying. FLorez understands his district. Parra never will.

Martinez and his group of apologists refuse to acknowledge these facts. If winning by 265 votes out of 50,000 votes cast speaks well for Parra's efforts in civic education, as Martinez wrote, then maybe I need to go back to school. When I go back, I'll make sure I don't take any classes from Thomas Martinez at Cal State Bakersfield.

MARIE HOWE, Bakersfield