Tony Strickland throws hat in the ring for U.S. 26th District





State Sen. Tony Strickland (RSimi Valley) announced Monday he will run for Congress during a press conference at the newly drawn U.S. 26th District, which includes much of Ventura County and Oak Park.

Strickland, a 41- year- old freshman state senator from Thousand Oaks who represents the 19th District, is the second contender to enter the race following word that longtime U.S. Rep. Elton Gallegly will retire in November. Seven candidates have entered the race so far, including Ventura County Supervisor Linda Parks.

He (will) be a very formidable candidate,” said Herb Gooch, a professor of political science at California Lutheran University.

The Democratic candidates who’ve announced their candidacy in the 26th include Ventura County Supervisor Steve Bennett, Moorpark Councilmember David Pollock, retired longshoreman and Vietnam veteran Zeke Ruelas of Oxnard, Westlake Village businessman David Cruz Thayne and Oxnard Harbor District board member Jess Herrera.

“I feel very confident that we are going to unite Democrats, independents and Republicans,” Strickland said. “I wouldn’t be in the state Senate if I didn’t have a large percentage of independent and Democrat votes along with Republican votes.”

Experts believe the race will be closely watched by Washington as it’s one of a handful of conservative districts that now includes more liberals. The candidates may have to spend as much as $5 million each in the race.

“One thing I can say about Tony (is) I’ve never seen anybody willing to work harder,” said Ventura County Supervisor Peter Foy, a supporter.



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