Nov. 25, 2025 6:15 AM PT <\/p>\n
To the editor: Like many of your readers, one of my morning pleasures is a good cup of coffee and a George Skelton column. Over the (many) years, I have found his comments insightful and his characterizations of political figures fair and on the mark.<\/p>\n
So, as a supporter of former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, I am delighted to read Skelton\u2019s comment regarding his gubernatorial chances that \u201cNo one is more qualified to be governor. And he lets the voters know where he stands\u201d (\u201cWho will emerge from a ho-hum field of governor candidates?,\u201d<\/a> Nov. 24). Exactly right!<\/p>\n As mayor of Los Angeles, he had a record of tremendous accomplishments. For example, during some very difficult budget years, he increased the police department<\/a> by almost 1,000 new officers, bringing the department to 10,000 policemen and women. On his watch, the crime rate was cut almost in half<\/a>. And he took major steps to improve our schools, something other mayors have slacked on. During his tenure, graduation rates rose<\/a> from 45% to 70%.<\/p>\n He would bring to the office of governor the same energy, drive and commitment that has made him a great public servant.<\/p>\n Rick Tuttle, Culver City<\/p>\n ..<\/p>\n To the editor: \ufeffA factor that could make Tom Steyer stand out among the others in the race is that he must be more familiar than most with the issue of the military and illegal orders (\u201cCalifornia is having its most wide-open governor\u2019s race in decades. Why\u2019s that?,\u201d<\/a> Nov. 23).<\/p>\n