I care about the community in which I live, and about what our local, state, and federal governments are doing. That's why I continue to be active on issues at all levels of government. At the recent Redistricting Special Session of the New Mexico Legislature, I worked with Los Alamos County Councilor David Izraelevitz, State Representative James Hall and others to keep Los Alamos County in a single legislative district. We helped convince the Legislature to pass a plan that kept Los Alamos in a single House district, but the plan was vetoed by Governor Martinez. The New Mexico Courts recently approved a redistricting plan that does keep Los Alamos in a single District. I will continue to speak out and work on issues of importance here in our community as a citizen, as Vice Chairman of the Planning and Zoning Commission, and soon at the Roundhouse in the 2012 Legislative Session. At last year's state legislative session, I advocated for a U. S. constitutional amendment that would affirm the power of our government to regulate campaign finance (see Proposed Memorial). U. S. Senator Tom Udall has now introduced such an amendment (Senate Press Release), which I support and will promote in this year's New Mexico Legislative Session.
I have principles that led to my choice of a political party (see Political Parties), but I deplore the present atmosphere of hyper-partisan attacks and refusal to compromise. We can hold our principles and still work to find common ground with those of different viewpoints. I'm willing to state my opinions and my reasons, listen to what others have to say, and then work toward common ground, where we might find agreeable and workable solutions to our society's problems. An atmosphere of civility, honesty, and respect for all people is vital if democratic governments are going to be able to effectively deal with the pressing needs of our community.
- Pete Sheehey
- January 16, 2012