Ruling Against Campaign Limits

Re “State’s Campaign Funds Law Voided by Federal Judge,” Jan. 7:

I am outraged at the court’s decision regarding Prop. 208 and the slap in the face it represents to the public will. Prop. 208 passed as a grass-roots effort of the people, against overwhelming odds, to reduce the disproportionate influence of special interest money.

The courts continue to equate money with free speech, but refuse to note the censoring qualities of big money. Free speech will continue to be expensive. The courts currently feel that money is more important than ideas. The interests of the people will be heard only when the great moneyed influences are quieted.

MARK PRESKY

Los Angeles

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The ultimate freedom of speech in our democracy is exercised at the ballot box. U.S. District Chief Judge Lawrence K. Karlton is concerned about the candidates being able to get their message out. Obviously Karlton did not get the message of the voters.

What will it take to get election reform? The referendum system was established to give the voters a recourse when the legislative process is unresponsive. Unfortunately we do not have any such recourse with the judiciary.

GERRY LEVY

Oxnard