Who do you want to win? The hardworking men and women of California? Or the rioters who stormed the U.S. Capitol?

Those are the choices in the misguided recall election against Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Gov. Newsom has done a good job responding to unprecedented external challenges – especially combating the wildfire threat and the pandemic. 

He has invested billions of dollars to protect our state from climate-driven infernos. And his consistent support of vaccinations and mask-wearing has saved lives. On so many levels, the governor has helped California be the national leader during challenging times. 

Newsom’s chances are threatened by polling data suggesting Democrats and independents may not cast ballots by Sept. 14 while supporters of former President Trump mobilize recall voters. Make no mistake – this is not a sure thing. We cannot afford to be indifferent.

Failure to vote no on the cynical, sham recall will result in an extreme Republican governor even more regressive than Trump. 

I urge everyone who shares the values of creating a safer and more resilient California, one that recognizes fact-based solutions, women and the contributions of our diverse population, to vote ‘no’ on the recall.