I assume that Richiebee's post along with the related string was removed more for its political content than for its PETA comments. I want to be clear that I do not object to attempts to reform horse racing. I do not even object to the idea that, in an expensive state and without slots support, horse racing may no longer make sense for California. I do object to arguments that intentionally distort, ignore, or misinterpret data. They are especially objectionable where they are being put forth to abruptly deprive hundreds of people in the horse racing and ancillary industries of their livelihoods. Absent clear evidence that Santa Anita has issues that do not exist elsewhere, the conversation ought to be taking place on a national, not a California, level and ought to consider the need to allow time for people to transition to the new environment.