Standing Up for the 49th District

by Jeeni Criscenzo
Democratic Candidate for Congress, 49th District

I am running as a Democrat to represent the people of California's 49th District in the U.S. House of representatives. I have spent the past several months meeting with the people of my district and listening to their concerns and needs. Following is an overview of where I stand on the issues you've told me are important to you. I will be adding to this as new information or events bring facts and issues to light.

You may not always agree with my position - you will never find an honest candidate who agrees with you on everything. You WILL always know that I am telling you the truth, that I'll take the time to learn the facts, to listen to your opinions and ideas, and to learn what impact my decision will have on the people I represent. I will ALWAYS act in the best interests of the PEOPLE.

1. U.S. OUT OF IRAQ

The occupation of Iraq is bankrupting our country and provoking increased hostility towards America . Our presence is hindering a solution to the escalating civil war. The majority of the American people want a speedy end to this occupation. Nothing good can come from staying in Iraq one more day. Replacing American troops with a UN Peacekeeping Force will provide Iraqis with the support they need to transition to an independent, democratic government. Jeeni Criscenzo invites every candidate to join her in signing the Peacemaker Pledge, calling for a speedy withdrawal of the U.S. from Iraq . - A Proposed Exit Strategy

2. SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS

The best way to support our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan is to work for their safe return and assist them in their transition to life in the United States . Returning veterans must be given all the benefits they have earned by signing up to defend us, including medical care and opportunities for education and employment. The families of those who have given their lives must be given the support and benefits they need and to which they are entitled.

3. NATIONAL SECURITY & DIPLOMACY

The most effective way to end terrorism is to change our foreign policy from one of global empire and pre-emptive war to one of cooperation with the community of nations. Our armed forces must return to the job of protecting our nation from attack rather than occupying foreign lands and engaging in nation-building. We must strengthen alliances with our traditional partners overseas and in this hemisphere, repair our reputation in the world, safeguard - and if possible eliminate - nuclear materials around the globe, and work to ensure the security of our ports, our borders, nuclear and chemical plants, and other sensitive facilities.

4. ENDING THE CULTURE OF CORRUPTION

Our political system favors corporate donors and gives undue influence to corporate lobbyists. In such a system the needs of the average American take a back seat. We must eliminate the excessive influence corporations have on our government. The best ways to do that are to publicly fund elections, change the rules regarding lobbying, and remove corrupt politicians from Congress.