I’m a 78-year-old lifelong Democrat from Medford, and I completely agree with the recent letter from Delores Nims. Delores asked Oregon state Sen. Golden to retire graciously after eight years in the Legislature.

We have witnessed far too many politicians retire far too late, blocking progress for the next generation, and no place is this trend more evident than the last presidential election cycle, which cost us all far too dearly.

Democrats and progressives always move forward: addressing climate chaos, providing affordable housing and constructing schools for the future. Sen. Golden has had a good two terms in office, but right now it feels stale. We require dynamic and experienced leaders to rally the vote and shake the dust of complacency and stalled momentum.

To stay too long is to invite defeat and tarnish legacies. Senator, it is time for you to step aside, to preserve your honor. It is time for the next crop to have their turn, which you are blocking. Fellow Democrats, let us urge the injection of fresh blood during the upcoming May 19 primary election.

Sal Edwards

Medford

Sal Edwards is the CEO of Heart Zones.