Democratic Assemblymember Chris Holden, who is terming out of his 41st District state Assembly seat, has announced his campaign to replace Republican Kathryn Barger for the District 5 seat on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
Holden was elected to the Assembly in 2012 after serving on the Pasadena City Council since 1989. In the Assembly, Holden chairs the Appropriations Committee, where last year he secured millions for the Rose Bowl and Pasadena Central Library.
Holden also introduced the legislation prohibiting the completion of the 710 freeway stub between the 10 and 210 freeways.
“Throughout my public service, I’ve worked to ensure people feel like their government is responding to their needs,” he said in a press release announcing the event. “I’ve brought people together to pursue progressive solutions that work for Los Angeles County. I’ll continue solving our biggest challenges as your next County Supervisor.”
Barger announced her intention to run for her third and final bid on the board earlier this month. She mentioned homelessness as well as mental health and substance abuse resources as top issues in a video announcing her candidacy.
While Holden is already emphasizing his progressive credentials and readiness to work with what is a more progressive board, Barger, even with her conservative credentials, has touted her ability to work with her fellow board members, and even influence them from time to time.
District 5 includes parts of the San Gabriel, San Fernando, Crescenta, Santa Clarita and Antelope valleys, spanning more than 2,700 square miles. Like all five supervisorial districts, the seat represents about 2 million.
With Holden hitting his term limit in the state Assembly, the race to replace him has already drawn interest from Pasadena-area hopefuls.
Former Pasadena Police Lt. Dr. Phlunté Riddle this month announced her intention to replace Holden, who she worked for as his district director. Holden endorsed her for the seat in Riddle’s announcement press release.
Pasadena City Councilwoman Felicia Williams also announced her run to replace Holden this month after three years on the council.
According to state campaign finance records, Claremont City Councilmember Jed Leano has also filed a Statement of Intention to run.
California’s 41st State Assembly District is anchored by Pasadena and encompasses San Gabriel Mountain and foothills communities.
Related links
Kathryn Barger will run for a third and final term on the LA County Board of Supervisors
Pasadena begins process to heal ‘scar’ known as the ‘710 stub’
Pasadena approves $6.1 million contract for first stage of Central Library retrofit, renovation
Assemblyman Chris Holden of Pasadena introduces bill to kill 710 Freeway tunnel project
With Rose Bowl and Central Library funding secured, Pasadena leaders eye dollars for Gold Line