The IE needs serious representation

I’ve learned a lot since announcing my candidacy for state Senate in a new seat that has not been open in a decade. My reasons to run for Senate remain clear, despite the push-back I’ve received from political insiders hellbent on defending the status quo. My story is not a typical one: I was not born into wealth or a political family.

For me, deciding to run for office was simple. As the son of a single immigrant mom who struggled to make ends meet, I understand what it means to be given the chance for a better life.

For me that chance was an education which led to a good job that provides for my family, and allows me to be part of our community and to give back in important ways:

•It’s why I serve as an Economic Development Director at UC Riverside and have taught classes to help students understand what it takes to succeed.

•It’s why I have been elected on the Riverside School Board since 2015, investing $400 million to modernize our schools, to provide career technical education for jobs in the 21st century and curriculums that prepare our kids for college.

•It’s why I serve on the California Workforce Development Board overseeing the state’s $6 billion workforce system and fight for quality career pathways for over 1.5 million Californians.

•It’s why I served on the California Planned Parenthood Board of Directors protecting reproductive freedom and healthcare.

My economic development experience is essential for attracting quality jobs but also an important perspective to help the state reconcile its over $70 billion budget deficit this year.

California is growing increasingly unaffordable for working families. There is an affordable housing crisis looming over families, homelessness is a moral crisis, and health care among other costs continue to rise. With public safety needing a legislative champion in our communities, I am proud to be endorsed by Riverside County Firefighters and Riverside Sheriffs Association.

This candidacy is an opportunity for me to authentically represent communities that include my hometown, where my wife and I are raising our daughter and where I am planning to retire one day.

The Inland Empire needs a local leader in the State Senate to authentically understand the priorities of our communities and bring back resources. We cannot rely on Sacramento politicians, like my opponent, to solve these kitchen table issues.

Term limits are 12 years combined between the state Assembly and state Senate. My opponent is seeking a promotion to the state Senate to only be eligible for a maximum of one term and potentially begin campaigning for another office after this election in order to expand a political dynasty to her sister.

The Inland Empire is a region that historically already does not get the respect it deserves — and therefore the resources — we ought to receive from Sacramento. I am eligible for 12 years of service as your next State Senator to ensure that our region gets the dedicated leadership it deserves.

This newspaper has written about my opponent sending texts lying about her F environmental record and now this behavior is extending to other desperate attacks against me.

The facts are that I am currently a California Democratic Party delegate, have served as a Democratic National Committee delegate and am the ONLY candidate endorsed by California Young Democrats because they believe it’s time for a new voice to represent us. The Democratic Party, of which I have been a member throughout my entire career, is the only party I have sought an endorsement for my candidacy.

We need people in public office who care about what matters, not politicians who are creating political dynasties that benefit their own families.

I would be honored to earn your support. Please remember to vote for Dr. Angelo Farooq for State Senate by the March 5th election.