Dear Senators,
I have directed major senior services during the past 25 years. A common question asked of me by seniors is, "How can I get into a subsidized senior apartment? I have been on the list for years while I watch foreigners get in right away." At church last Sunday, a parishioner told me it took her two years after getting on the waiting list to get an apartment in a senior subsidized building. While her friends continue to wait "their turn" for a vacancy, the parishioner asked the apartment administrator why 90% of new residents are Chinese or of other Asian origin and the majority of existing residents are Asian? "Is there a preference"? she asked. The administrator told her she would have to ask the question of someone at a higher level.

Throughout my career, I have seen immigrants get services ahead of American citizens, and this is shameful. My grandfather came from Italy as a legal immigrant and neither he nor any of his descendants believe Italians should get preference for citizenship or services over any other nationality.

An immigrant I know (through my work) from the Philippines gets free medical care and her daughter is going to UC Berkeley for a total cost of $15 a semester. My American kids are still paying off their student loans as well as their taxes as they struggle to get started in careers.

Medicaid is even worse. Never-do-wells are admitted to Medi Cal and never have to see a doctor again or see a social worker to get reevaluated for need, thereby living on SSI and Medi Cal and never having to work although they are in fine health.

Why do legislators turn their backs, or worse, allow such things? The Democrats and Republicans have failed the American people. We need an American party or even better and un-party representative.

Put the matter of immigration to the people in a vote that allows only legal citizens to vote. We can't depend on our elected officials to represent us or the best interests of Americans.

Rita Baum
Rita R. Baum M. Ed., PPC