State Pay Raises

Bill Press’ well-intentioned Feb. 7 commentary (“Can This Marriage Be Saved?”) concerning the conflict between Gov. Gray Davis and state employees is based on a false premise, that “financial realities” have dictated Davis’ actions. As a former lieutenant governor and state controller Davis knew or should have known the state’s projected revenues. Davis has made the deliberate decision to renege on pay-raise commitments in several instances since his election, thus seriously undermining his credibility and his perceived integrity.

As a former licensed marriage counselor, I can report that “this marriage” will not be saved without a significant change in attitude and conduct on Davis’ part, demonstrated by good faith and substantial economic offers.

LINDA J. VOGEL

Pomona