Nonbeliever sees hypocrisy of Trump supporters

A message from an agnostic to Trump-supporting Christians: Proverbs 6:16-19. “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to run to evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”

According to the Bible, Jesus strongly condemned associating with liars, thieves and hypocrites, often using harsh language to warn against such relationships, particularly highlighting the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, who outwardly appeared righteous but were deceitful within. 1 Corinthians 5-11. “But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man, do not even eat.”

If a nonbeliever can understand and follow these simple principles, why can’t you? Why do you still endorse Donald Trump? Hypocrisy is the purest form of evil.

— Sam Burkhardt, Santa Cruz

Why Harris is unqualified to run for president

A vote for Kamala Harris is a vote for four more years of what we are experiencing now, open borders, higher food and gas prices, continued destruction of our military, crime, abortion on demand, China buying our farmland, transgender women in women’s sports and a weak foreign policy.

Harris was given the job as border czar but did nothing. We now have 20 million undocumented immigrants in the country; $640 million from FEMA has been given to undocumented immigrants. She is the most unqualified person to ever run for the office of president. Harris will end America as we know it.

I’m tired of the government telling me you can’t do this or you can’t do that. President Trump left this regime with a safe and prosperous America. Harris’s campaign is like a “Seinfeld” episode. “Nothing.”

— Linda L. Eberhardt, Scotts Valley

No on 36; keep reforms that invest in services

The California Federation of Teachers and the California Teachers’ Association both oppose Proposition 36, along with the governor, the Democratic Party and the ACLU.

By reducing incarceration, Proposition 47 saved approximately $95 million last year alone, a savings that has gone to mental health, drug treatment and victim services as well as school truancy and dropout prevention. If passed, Prop. 36 would take away those funds by sinking them into locking more people up.

It costs around $20,000 to educate a student in our public schools, and around $130,000 to incarcerate someone. Let’s invest in schools and community services that address root needs and build genuine community safety and wellness, not in a carceral system that divides families, increases trauma and drains our public coffers.

Please vote No on 36.

— Rebecca Royston, Watsonville

De Serpa has stronger connection to residents

I recently attended a candidates’ forum with District 2 supervisor candidates Kim De Serpa and Kristen Brown. Two things stood out. Kristen is definitely a policy wonk, conversant about the details of multiple county policies, but failed to show any concern about how those policies affect people. Kim, on the other hand, did not delve into policy details, but showed more concern about how county policies impact the people living in Capitola, Aptos, La Selva and the rural areas of District 2. She demonstrated a stronger connection to the needs of District 2 residents.

If you live in District 2 the choice is clear — vote for Kim De Serpa.

— Mick Routh, former Capitola Mayor, Capitola

Jensen for Capitola council: ‘Leader we need’

I had the privilege of serving alongside Gerry Jensen on the Capitola Wharf Enhancement Committee, where I witnessed his dedication firsthand. Gerry spent countless hours leading fundraising, raising community awareness and working with the city to revitalize the wharf. Thanks to his leadership, the grand opening last month showcased new benches, lighting, picnic tables and more — features that will enhance our wharf for years to come. Gerry saw a need to unite us and turned our grief over the damage into action.

As a mom, business owner and former Capitola city treasurer, I know fiscal prudence and budgetary experience matters. Gerry’s relentless work ethic and volunteer spirit are exactly what we need in a leader who will safeguard our future. He has the experience, dedication and vision to guide Capitola through the challenges ahead, and I trust him to lead our city forward.

For the future of our young families and our entire community, Gerry Jensen is the leader we need.

— Christine McBroom, Capitola

Voting Yes on state Proposition 5

As a Santa Cruz city councilmember, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges our community faces in addressing housing and infrastructure needs. With our beautiful coastline and vibrant culture, Santa Cruz attracts many residents and visitors, yet we struggle with affordable housing and infrastructure that can keep up with our growth. Proposition 5 is a game-changer because it empowers local governments to take decisive action on these critical issues.

Prop. 5 gives us the authority to fund affordable housing projects and infrastructure improvements that directly benefit our residents. This means more resources for creating sustainable housing options that fit the unique character of Santa Cruz, as well as upgrading our infrastructure to support our community’s needs. By ensuring local taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and effectively, we can enhance the quality of life for everyone in our city.

This measure is about giving power back to the people who know their communities best. I’m voting Yes on Prop. 5 because it’s time we give our Santa Cruz community the tools it needs to build a better future, preserving the essence of our city while addressing the needs of our growing population.

— Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson, Santa Cruz City Councilmember