Editorial: Endorsements for state and federal legislators

For a freshman member of Congress, Mullin has been surprisingly productive with bill introductions like his proposal to raise the poverty line while also keeping up with changing conditions both abroad, at the national and local level — and sometimes where all three intersect when it comes to artificial intelligence and attention on Gaza and Israel. In all matters Mullin is thoughtful and practical, and deserves another two years in office.

Liccardo for District 16 Congress

Retiring District 16 representative Anna Eshoo has been a mainstay in Peninsula politics for so many years, it’s hard to imagine someone replacing her, but that is what voters must decide in November.

From the cost of living and workforce housing to data privacy and consumer protections, former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo has a wide understanding of the issues facing the district. He also has big ideas on how to address them.

Our original endorsement went to Joe Simitian because of his record of thoughtfulness and thoroughness. Liccardo shares those traits and will be a great choice for this seat.

Becker for District 13 state Senate

Josh Becker is in tune with San Mateo County’s interests, whether it be artificial intelligence or his dogged focus on climate change. If there is a complicated bill in an emerging area of interest, it would be a good bet Becker has his name near the top. He is focused on privacy and consumer rights and seeks to make sure the rollout of AI is in society’s best interest.

But he also focuses on the retail side of things, whether it be providing money for students to better meet grade level standards or fighting for funding for Burlingame’s Broadway grade separation project to ensure it’s safe and reliable. He also fought for the state’s return of vehicle license fee money.

Focusing on the state’s bottom line to ensure adequate reserves and reliable funding could be Becker’s next big lift when reelected.

Papan for District 21 Assembly

By now, everyone knows Diane Papan is a fighter, but it’s best when she fights for the people of San Mateo County — as she did in ensuring millions in vehicle license fee money was returned to local governments here.

City budgets would have been devastated without that money, and Papan knew to keep her eye on the prize.

Climate change, children’s mental health, housing and homelessness are also priorities for her. And she is keen on listening, collaborating and getting the best result for all.

Berman for District 23 Assembly

Housing and a division on how to address it is the core issue in the race for the District 23 seat currently held by Marc Berman, where he is facing a challenge from someone who sits on the same Palo Alto City Council he sat on before his first election to state office.

Lydia Kou has been outspoken on the extent the state has gotten involved in local land use issues, yet, Berman has said the intense affordability crisis means many support those efforts.

This is an election in which those philosophies can be tested at the polls, but Berman knows progress is made through change.