Candidate for
Recall of Gray Davis; State of California

I am a grocer who, with his family, specializes in selling cigarettes to adults who make their own decisions. Customers tell me they want no new taxes, no stupid new laws, and for someone to step up to get the work of government done.

What qualifies me to be your Governor is that this political base, formed first of smokers with many different political persuasions, united in the belief that we must respect the freedoms of others in order to have freedoms of our own, combined with others seeking sensible, realistic actions by a new Governor, will garner the largest number of votes.

My friend's construction work is stopped because of State permits. My family's business faces another huge increase in workers compensation costs even though our safety record has improved. My neighbors cut back staff to avoid taxes and paperwork. California has become uncompetitive compared to other states.

I am optimistic, with the calm confidence of a Christian with four aces. Government isn't like business. Good government needs consensus. I can work with Legislators and officials to decide rapidly and to do what makes sense quickly. My sense of urgency comes from having customers to serve and bills to pay. My top priority is to improve the prosperity of workers without expanding the burden of government. That is, to do the decent thing.

I can hire the best and seize opportunities. I listen and learn. Government can't solve your problems--but it should earn your respect.

Ned Roscoe