John believes that we need to change our approach to business in California and that we have to invest in green technology and green jobs. The 15th State Senate District – from Silicon Valley to Santa Barbara – has to be a leader in the jobs of the future. More on John's position.

-Opinion: Laird: California must spur economic growth in clean tech

Compare John's stance with Sam Blakeslee.

John is an educator and former Community College Trustee, so he knows firsthand the impact that state budget cuts can have on our schools. Sacramento has been starving our schools, shortchanging our students and endangering our economic future. More on John's position.

-Op/Ed: California school crisis requires willpower

Compare John & Sam Blakeslee on Kids’ Issues

Compare John & Sam Blakeslee on Public Education

For the past 25 years, when he successfully led the passage of a ballot measure that prevented new offshore oil facilities off the Santa Cruz coast without voter approval, John has consistently opposed offshore drilling. More on John's position.

-Op-ed: Oil drilling always a threat

Compare John's stance with Sam Blakeslee.