Democrats must heed shift to right in 2026

Re: “Pelosi’s political future intrigues insiders, outsiders” (Page A1, March 24).

After reading this article, it’s apparent that the Democratic Party has not learned its lesson after Election Day 2024.

Nancy Pelosi will probably run for another term in Congress in 2026 as the “moderate” Democrat against Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s former campaign manager.

His point of view is that the Democratic Party leadership is not liberal enough.

However, the constituency in San Francisco is moving to the right, evidenced by the election of a new mayor and the ouster of a progressive district attorney.

It should be an entertaining Election Day 2026.

— Charles Margiotta, Roseville

Say no to regressive Bay Area transit tax

Re: “Transit bill to get another road test” (Page A1, March 24).

We don’t need another regressive transportation funding measure. Our taxes are already too high. Vote no.

Over the last several elections, voters in Santa Clara County have passed multiple tax and fee increases. All this nickel and diming contributes to making the Bay Area a horribly expensive place to live, especially for people of modest means, who must pay the greatest percentage of their income in these regressive taxes and fees. Each increase by itself does not amount to much, but the cumulative effect is to add to the unaffordability of the region.

Before increasing taxes yet again, waste needs to be removed from transportation projects. For example, we need to eliminate the redundant BART extension between the San Jose and Santa Clara Caltrain stations. The BART segment from these stations would duplicate both the existing Caltrain line and VTA’s 22 and 522 buses.

— William Hough, Los Altos

Street vendor effort will make S.J. appealing

Re: “Council toughens statute on peddling” (Page B1, March 27).

I was pleased to read that the San Jose City Council has adopted new tools to address illegal street vending downtown, especially during events.

I’ve enjoyed attending Christmas in the Park for decades, but two years ago, while visiting with my parents — both in their 80s — I was shocked by the explosion of unregulated vendors that overwhelmed the experience.

The event felt more like Chaos in the Park, with low-hanging tents, sidewalks blocked by makeshift dining areas, open-flame grills dangerously close to pedestrians, and crowds so dense it was difficult to move.

While the city must consider the needs of those trying to earn a living, public safety, accessibility and health regulations must come first.

Events like Christmas in the Park are not only treasured traditions — they’re essential to revitalizing our downtown.

If we want a vibrant, welcoming city center, we must protect the experiences that bring people there in the first place.

— Jennifer Van Every, San Jose