[In the spirit of fair play, this statement below is 247 words, three words below the 250-word limit the Secretary of State has imposed on the published Voter Information Guide. For the longer, "album version" of this statement, go here.]

This simple concept of government as it should be -- representative of the people -- conflicts with what occurs today: Elected officials serve their campaign donors above the people they are elected to represent.

The message of my campaign is, "Make democracy work as it was meant to work."

The Insurance Commissioner must be an advocate for the people, wielding his power on behalf of Californians against an army of insurance industry lobbyists and attorneys.

As Insurance Commissioner, I unequivocally pledge to be that advocate of the people. As a Green, I take no corporate campaign contributions -- I am beholden only to the people of California.

Further, my campaign couples my pledge with:

Fixing Workers' Comp 'Reform': In 2004, Gov. Schwarzenegger and the Democratic-led legislature rammed through a package of Workers' Comp "reform" that is a laughingstock, unless you're an injured worker. This "reform" needs to be fixed NOW.

Facilitating Single Payer Health Care: I stand with the Green Party and Health Care for All in supporting Senate Bill 840, single-payer health care bill. An Insurance Commissioner unencumbered by corporate campaign donations would best oversee its implementation.

No uninsured drivers in California: The state should explore auto liability insurance that can be paid for by a gasoline tax, put into a state fund to provide liability coverage to all drivers. Additional coverage can be purchased from your agent, but the liability insurance would be paid for with each gas purchase.

Vote Clean. Vote Green.

Thank you.