Pablo Luther
In my earlier post, I promised to update folks with the campaign funding docs for the remaining two candidates, Steve Taglio and Pablo Luther. Both of these gentlemen responded promptly when I asked them for copies of their docs, but frankly I've been focused on other aspects of my Board work, and didn't get around to posting these. However, following the same theme of transparency, I do include them here for everyone's reading.
Taglio's FPPC Form 460
Luther's FPPC Form 460
Vladimir Ivanovich
Today in the LATC it was reported that Vladimir Ivanovich has withdrawn from the race and thrown his support behind Luther and Taglio. He cited the risk that his candidacy would actually help Amanda Burke-Aaronson as his primary reason for abandoning the race. I applaud this decision- it's a wise political move, and it shows that he's thinking about what is best for the students. I wish Mr. Ivanovich well in his continued service to LASD on CACF and in other capacities.
Amanda Burke-Aaronson
I'd also like to comment on the value of the sunshine process. Within 12 hours of posting Amanda Burke-Aaronson's campaign forms, I'd heard from members of the community confirming all donors except one to be directly tied to BCS. This is exactly why State law requires publication of these documents. The public is entitled to know who is funding a political race.
Ms. Burke-Aaronson responded to questions on the Town Crier website about her contributions. She said, in part "Is it a big surprise that parents at my children's school are my friends? Is it a big surprise that my friends support me?" I would respond that no, it isn't surprising at all. I count among my supporters many parents that I have met through my involvement in activities at my children's schools. That's just part of the process. What is troubling, though, is that Ms. Burke-Aaronson doesn't have support of LASD parents. It would be akin to running for the US Senate seat from California, but not ever having set foot in the state, and raising your campaign war chest in Texas. The people whom you represent have to have confidence that you are actually representing their interests- not just your own view of how it should be.
For in reason, all government without the consent of the governed is the very definition of slavery. -Jonathan SwiftI still remain hopeful that Ms Burke-Aaronson will seek a seat on the BCS Board, and that when she gets that seat, we'll be able to work across the proverbial divide and solve this longstanding and difficult issue. I just don't think that she would have enough support from our community to be effective in a leadership role at LASD.
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