Opinion: Voters, pay attention to what really matters

A message to undecided voters:

If you want... authoritarian rule, climate accords abandoned, tax cuts for the rich, defunding of vital services, and abortion banned – then vote Republican. If you believe in conspiracy theories, vote for the 'Conspiracy Party'. Otherwise, vote Democrat. It matters.

Don Hammond, Austin

On teaching morality:

Our nation's moral decay can be traced back to the removal of God from classrooms. The Ten Commandments should be displayed to restore sanity, and teach the morals our nation was founded on. Louisiana has made it state law, and other states should follow suit.

Newt Hasson, Austin

Private school funding:

Gov. Abbott's proposed educational savings accounts are an expansion of state power, taking tax dollars to fund private schools, which is taxation without representation. Texas legislators must uphold their oath to improve public education, not divert funds.

Tricia Kim, Austin

Light rail for Austin:

Re: Austin’s light rail opponents are trying to undermine taxpayers’ vote

Austin voters want alternatives to driving, yet opponents try to block light rail improvements. This project will reduce traffic, improve air quality, create walkable communities, and spur affordable housing. Let's stop the lawsuits and improve our quality of life.

Kalpana Sutaria, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Austin Chapter

The Supreme Court's failures:

Re: Supreme Court strikes down Trump-era ban on gun accessory

The current Supreme Court, except for three sane justices, is the worst in US history. From reversing Roe v. Wade to striking down bump stock bans, they make a mockery of justice. Life appointments ensure an inhumane, partisan bench.

Bess Mitchell, Austin

Protect reproductive rights:

Re: Supreme Court preserves access to widely used abortion medication mifepristone

While the Supreme Court upheld access to abortion medication, anti-abortion groups may challenge this. They seek to impose religious beliefs and restrict civil liberties. We must protect our fundamental freedom to make decisions about our bodies and support organizations fighting for these rights.

Leland Murphy, Austin

The Republican strategy:

The 'eat your own' strategy defies understanding. GOP officials endorse rivals of those in their party who don't conform. From Abbott to Paxton, McCarthy, and Trump, this is a pattern of endorsing the most loyal, not the best representatives for Texans.

Craig Hackler, Austin

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