71ST ASSEMBLY CANDIDATES MODIFY CAMPAIGNS
Lavertu, Voepel both say pandemic has led to a change in priorities
As the coronavirus pandemic continues and wildfires scorch thousands of acres in East County, the two candidates vying to represent the 71st Assembly District have had to switch gears in how they appeal to voters.
Small-businesswoman and
Spring Valley Democrat Elizabeth Lavertu said her campaign to represent the traditionally conservative district has focused less on voter outreach, and more on helping community members affected by the
COVID-19 pandemic and recent wildfires.
“We completely switched up our focus in March,” Lavertu said in a recent phone interview. “We still contact voters, but we felt it was more important to help the community in these unprecedented times.”
Lavertu, who goes by Liz, said she has spent time reaching out and delivering food to seniors, making sure they have access to resources the state and county are providing during the pandemic, which as of Friday has sickened nearly 49,500 and killed 819 countywide.
When the Valley Fire ignited in early September and later burned 16,390 acres and took out 30 homes in East County, Lavertu said she and her staff were helping residents who were evacuated and delivering animal supplies such as hay and lead ropes and water buckets for horses to the San Diego Humane Society.
“If you’re looking for someone who’s honest and hardworking, I’m your candidate,” Lavertu said. “I’m the person who will be in every single community meeting, listening to your needs and doing my best to