Council backs Lackey for 36th
All five Santa Clarita City Council members say Assemblyman Tom Lackey, R-Palmdale, should represent California’s 36th State Assembly District for a third consecutive term.
In a statement on the endorsement, Mayor Laurene Weste said Lackey, whose district includes the Antelope Valley and portions of the Santa Clarita Valley, “is a strong leader.”
Lakey has represented the district since 2014, focusing on bringing and retaining jobs in the area, and strong public safety laws and protection of victims, including closing a loophole in Proposition 47 to help ensure that those found in possession of date-rape drugs are sent to prison.
Lackey started his career in public service as a California Highway Patrolman in 1985 and later served as Palmdale City Council’s Mayor Pro Tem in the early 2000s.
The incumbent is running against Democrat Steve Fox, who represented the 36th district from 2012 to 2014 focusing on veterans affairs, higher education and economic development.
In the top-two primary election, the candidates were unopposed, with Lackey receiving 60 percent of the vote, according to Ballotpedia.
Here’s what each council member said on endorsing Lackey:
Mayor Laurene Weste: “Tom Lackey is a strong leader who has done much to advocate for public safety in our communities. His commitment to protecting families and tested experience as a public servant makes me proud to endorse Tom Lackey for State Assembly.”
Mayor Pro Tem Marsha McLean: “I am pleased to support Tom Lackey because of his sincerity and hard work to fight against unfair taxes and fees. Tom Lackey makes sure to stand up for the many families he represents and is a strong voice for our community. I proudly support Tom Lackey for Assembly.”
Councilman Bob Kellar: "It is with great pleasure to give a strong endorsement to Tom Lackey for State Assembly. Tom Lackey’s law enforcement background and his many years of leadership truly makes him the best person to serve the Antelope Valley and the Santa Clarita communities he represents. I am truly proud to give my endorsement for Tom Lackey for Assembly."
Councilman Bill Miranda: “Tom Lackey is a proven leader who continues to fight for small business in our community. He understands how small business is central to the growth of local economies. Tom will stand firm to make sure they are protected in Sacramento. I proudly support Tom Lackey for Assembly.”
Councilman Cameron Smyth: “I know firsthand the challenges our representatives face while in Sacramento and Tom Lackey has shown he has what it takes to be successful. He is accessible to his constituents and there is no doubt his only goal is to serve the residents of the 36th Assembly District. I wholeheartedly support sending him back to Sacramento for another term.”