Santa Cruz Readers Debate Congressman's Voting Record, Highlight Local Music Program

Letters to the editor discuss Congressman Jimmy Panetta's stance on war and support for Israel, as well as a monthly chamber music series at the Downtown Library.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 6:50am

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In letters to the editor, Santa Cruz readers weigh in on Congressman Jimmy Panetta's voting record, which they say contradicts his recent campaign rhetoric against "forever wars." The letters also highlight a local chamber music program called "Munching with Mozart" that has been running for 20 years at the Downtown Public Library.

Why it matters

The letters touch on important issues of war, representation, and the local arts scene in Santa Cruz. They raise questions about the consistency between Panetta's words and actions on matters of foreign policy and military aid, as well as the value of community-driven music programs that provide accessible classical performances.

The details

One letter writer argues that Panetta's voting record since 2017 has "demonstrated consistent support for a never-ending war," particularly in his votes authorizing over $16 billion in military aid to Israel during its 2023 bombing campaign in Gaza. The writer suggests Panetta's stance may be influenced by campaign contributions from pro-Israel and arms industry donors. Another letter highlights the "Munching with Mozart" chamber music series, which has been running monthly at the Downtown Public Library for 20 years, offering 50-minute classical and other music performances.

  • Since the start of Israel's bombing and starvation of the Gaza Strip in October 2023, the U.S. has provided $16.3 billion in direct military aid to Israel.
  • Panetta voted for legislation authorizing $8.7 billion in supplemental military aid to Israel in April 2024, and $3.8 billion per year in 2024 and 2025.

The players

Jimmy Panetta

A Democratic Congressman representing California's 20th district, who is being challenged in the upcoming election by Democrat Sean Dougherty.

Sean Dougherty

The Democratic challenger to Congressman Jimmy Panetta, with a campaign slogan of "for the many, not the money."

Rolla Alaydi

A Monterey resident and Palestinian American teacher who grew up in a Gaza refugee camp, and has lost over 100 family members to U.S. weapons used by Israel.

Carol Panofsky

The founder of the "Munching with Mozart" chamber music series that has been running for 20 years at the Downtown Public Library in Santa Cruz.

Sheila Carrillo

A Santa Cruz resident and frequent letter writer to the Good Times publication.

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What they’re saying

“Clearly, Jimmy Panetta's words and actions are not congruent with those of a peacemaker:”

— Sheila Carrillo, Santa Cruz Resident

“You've got to give Israel credit' for its counterterrorism operations in Gaza, amid widespread American skepticism.”

— Rep. Jimmy Panetta

“If you want to learn about chamber music, it is a great place to start. If you are already a music fan of classical and other styles of music, it's a great place to spend a restful time of music – usually classical, but sometimes ragtime or other music styles.”

— Nick Royal, Santa Cruz Resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.