Dear Editor,

I write to you and your community in regards to the Fifth Assembly race between Rico Oller and Frank Bigelow. I ask Democrats not to sit out on this election just because two Republicans are on the ballot for this seat.

It's important to participate because there are substantial differences between the two candidates. We Democrats understand that leadership means "weighing" the issues and making a decision based on facts and not just doing what you're told by your party, or in many cases, lobbyists.

Madera County Supervisor Bigelow is just such a leader. He refused to sign the no tax pledge that the Republican leadership likes to hold over its members. He knows the issues coming before the State Assembly require understanding of the facts and not to blindly follow a decision made without complete information.

That is leadership. He stands with us in the Central Valley on the water issues and also supports the building of a dam to hold back water for future needs. I have had the pleasure of conversing with Supervisor Bigelow on many issues and yes, we differ on most, however he always extends the courtesy of listening and carrying a dialogue on the subject at hand. I would rather have a leader who weighs the issues on facts established at that time and not on a pledge made prior. This Democrat will vote for Supervisor Bigelow and encourages you to do the same.

Carlos Uranga, Madera