Salute to Survivors

Senator Tim Johnson

You may have heard that South Dakota Democratic Senator Tim Johnson is in critical condition after undergoing emergency brain surgery last Wednesday. Our hearts go out to Senator Johnson and his family during this difficult time. What hangs in the balance is not only a father's life, but also the Democratic majority in the Senate. Our prayers are with him.

Life in the balance for six million uninsured Californians. Senator Johnson's unfortunate trip to the emergency room is a reminder that around the nation people go without adequate healthcare every day. Here in California healthcare costs are soaring and we have six million uninsured. That's why I was glad to see Senator Perata move the debate forward by introducing legislation last week to insure 4 million new Californians. I've been doing my part to weigh in. Click here to read my recent op-ed in the San Jose Mercury News on how to cut costs and insure more Californians.

Steve Westly
State expands innovative program to help low income earners file their taxes. Sometimes it seems that good policy in California is as fragile as the lives it serves. One of the reasons I came to Sacramento was to make people's lives easier by bringing technology to government. One of my proudest accomplishments was helping to create Ready Return, a program that helps Californians quickly and easily file their taxes electronically. While a major software tax preparation company spent millions trying to kill Ready Return, I stood up as Chair of the Franchise Tax Board and expanded it to over 1 million Californians. Click here to read more from the LA Times.

Yul Kwon
Westly Asian Outreach Coordinator Yul Kwon wins "Survivor" TV Show. Yul not only won "Survivor" and picked up a $1.0 million check-he was also named one of People Magazine's "Sexiest Men in America." Had I known he had such a great TV presence, we would have put him in our ads! With a strong commitment to public service, degrees from Stanford and Yale, and Hollywood good looks, I hope California has a chance to vote for him someday soon. Click here to read more about Yul's win from the San Francisco Chronicle.

Help Harrison
Each of us can do our part. You may not be a Senator, Chair of the Franchise Tax Board, or winner of "Survivor," but you have the power to save lives. Right here in California two-year old Harrison Leonardo is fighting Leukemia, but no one on the marrow registry matches Harrison's HLA type. Find out if you can help Harrison by clicking here. Even if you aren't a match for Harrison, find out how to donate blood or marrow by clicking here

Steve and Anita
Thank you for all your kindness to me and my family. It's important to remember to be grateful for the things we have. As I finish my term as State Controller, I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to serve California and for all the wonderful people I've met along the way. I look forward a new year filled with happiness and prosperity for the people of this great state.

Happy holidays from my family to yours!

Steve