Gallegly Safely Indoors

I learned that the shootings in Tucson occurred during an event that Representative Giffords regularly schedules to meet with her constituents. They are called “Congress On Your Corner.”

Some members of the House of Representatives from California schedule similar events. Lois Capps talks with her constituents at places like farmers markets. Henry Waxman, in the 30th District, famous for his heavy work load, finds time to schedule town halls for his constituents.

An Ojai resident since 1989, I am not aware of any event Elton Gallegly scheduled to meet with his constituents. During the 2008 election, I called his offices to find out when he would meet with the people he represents. All I got were evasive answers.

During the recent election, his opponent, Tim Allison, made several requests to discuss issues important to people in the 24th District with Representative Gallegly. These requests were either refused or evaded.

Representative Gallegly received 58 percent of the vote. I guess a lot of people don’t mind being ignored. I’m just not one of them. I intend to insist that Representative Gallegly fulfill the tasks that he has assumed by seeking to represent the people of the 24th Congressional District.

All his constituents should know how he is representing them. He should consider issues important to his constituents and tell them why he opposes or supports their positions on these issues.