Dear Friends,

I am a third generation Sacramento native, raised by my grandparents in Oak Park. Growing up, my grandfather taught me the importance of being an active citizen. He always said that when you saw something wrong, you couldn't stand on the sidelines. You had an obligation to stand up and do something about it.

We need change in this city, and we need it now. Together, we can spark this change. I know that Sacramento can be one of the most vibrant, growing cities in the country. But right now, people see our city government as non-responsive, tired, uninspired, and bureaucratic. That's not good enough for Sacramento or its residents.

Sacramento has to be a city that works for everyone. I will make our streets safe by decreasing crime, putting more cops on the beat and addressing gang violence. I will ensure Sacramento is known and sought out for our great public schools. I will build a strong economy by attracting businesses and creating jobs in the city. I will make sure that our city government is run efficiently and is responsive to its residents.

Government doesn't have to be about factions or party politics. It can, when done well, serve to bring us together. I believe that government can work for all of us -- and I'm ready to make that happen. But this is not a job for one person. It's a job for a community. We all need to come together around a common vision. I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and take on all the challenges before us.

Together, we will make this a city we can all take greater pride in. Together, we will make Sacramento "A City That Works for Everyone". Please join me in standing up for Sacramento.

Sincerely,

Kevin Johnson
Mayor of Sacramento