The El Paso County Democratic Party recommends a sharp No on Proposition 128, and I must say, this proposal is as ill-conceived as it is draconian. Under the guise of “public safety,” it would increase prison time for certain violent crimes, removing any chance for early parole or earned time reductions. But, dear readers, this isn’t about justice—it’s about inflating our already overburdened prison system, to the tune of $28 million in extra costs.
Not only would this proposition strip away incentives for inmates to rehabilitate and reform, but it would also burden a prison system already struggling to hire enough staff. Worse yet, there’s no evidence that harsher penalties deter crime or make us any safer. A No vote ensures we avoid regressive policies that do nothing but swell prison populations. Instead of doubling down on punishment, let’s focus on real solutions—addressing the root causes of crime and investing in communities.
