No on Prop. 32: Will you help win this election?
Prop. 32 would thwart our political power, let billionaires write their own rules
Here's what's at stake in this election: If Proposition 32 passes, it will be incredibly difficult for Local 1000 and other unions to raise funds to compete politically. This could also affect our ability to defend our pensions and benefits from future political attacks.
Unions are the most effective political voice for the middle class - and Proposition 32 is a cynical attempt by a small group of billionaires and wealthy interests to silence our voice. If they win at the polls, they will be able to write their own rules in the future without labor or other grass-roots groups to effectively counterbalance their influence.
"We cannot afford to lose in this election - Prop. 32 is designed to weaken middle-class power, and we need to stop that," said Local 1000 President Yvonne R. Walker. "There are a handful of very wealthy people who want to deceive voters and buy this election. We need your help now more than ever. What will you do to save California?"
$11 million no-name contribution
Two shadowy, out-of-state organizations--that refuse to reveal their donors--have pumped more than $15 million into the campaign to pass Prop. 32 and defeat Prop. 30. This includes a single $11 million contribution by a mysterious Arizona entity that refuses to reveal who is behind the money.
"It shouldn't come as a surprise that the millionaires and billionaires who placed Proposition 32 on the ballot and who are funding the campaign are the very same special interests who are exempt from Proposition 32," said Gloria Anderson of the League of Women Voters.
Polls: a very close race
Recent polls suggest this will be an incredibly close race. The difference will likely hinge on whether Local 1000 and our coalition partners can ensure that supporters vote.
"This race is like a marathon, and we've only got a couple miles to go," said Tamekia N. Robinson, Local 1000 vice president for organizing/representation. "This election is very close, so we've got to finish strong to win. We need more volunteers."
If you want to volunteer to help fight for the middle class this weekend, click here or call 866.471.SEIU (7348) to sign up for precinct walking.