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Editor 

There are many of us living in Berkeley who are shocked and disappointed that some of our city officials have clearly stepped outside of their elected mandate and have taken it upon themselves to speak for us in matters concerning foreign policy. I have NOT given my vote to any member of this city council to represent my beliefs in matters that are outside of their purview. Foreign policy is definitely something that, as an elected city official, they have no right, whatsoever, to speak for me. I do not recall that any of these council members presented their constituents with a platform that addressed foreign policy. Are we to assume when we voted for them that their responsibilities and expertise would extend so far beyond their duties and jurisdiction? In these matters they are free as private citizens to express their opinions but when they trespass on matters beyond their scope, I believe they abrogate my right as a citizen. It shames me to admit that I live in a city where the local officials have so little concern for the rights of their citizenry. 

Claudia Kawczynska  

Berkeley