Assemblymember Sandré Swanson endorses Richmond City Councilmember Tony Thurmond for Assembly

March 19, 2008 8:17 AM

RICHMOND - Assemblymember Sandre' Swanson, Chairman of the Assembly Labor and Employment Committee, today gave his wholehearted support to Councilmember Tony Thurmond's bid for State Assembly, saying, "I enthusiastically support Tony Thurmond's candidacy for California's 14th State Assembly District."

"With our current budget crisis, it's important to have elected officials with the background and the courage to fight for a budget that reflects the priorities and values of our community," continued Swanson. "I am confident Councilmember Thurmond will join me in our fight to prioritize schools, will work to create job opportunities for California's families, and will support initiatives that will lead to safer communities."

Thurmond currently serves on the Richmond City Council and is the Executive Director of Beyond Emancipation, a non-profit that provides oversight and mentoring to help former foster youth make successful transitions into adulthood.

"I am deeply honored to have Assemblymember Swanson's endorsement," said Thurmond. "He has been a dedicated community leader for so many years, and it will be an honor to work with him. I know that with his partnership and support, we can bring high-paying jobs and affordable health care to our constituents and all Californians."

Thurmond agreed that he would fight with Swanson to balance the state budget while protecting education, health care and public safety from arbitrary cuts. He pledged to fight to pass universal health care and to oppose cuts to public education.

"We can't wait for change," said Thurmond. "I am the only candidate in this race who is already working in both Alameda and Contra Costa Counties on the key issues of ending the violence in our communities and providing jobs, health care and, most importantly, hope to our youth and their families."

Swanson joins fellow State Assembly leaders Mervyn M. Dymally, Mike Davis, Alberto Torrico, Fiona Ma and former Speaker Pro Tempore John T. Knox in endorsing Thurmond.