Statement regarding opponent's attack mailer

Regarding the misleading mailer by Alexandra Gallardo-Rooker, member of the California Democratic Party:

I am deeply saddened that Gallardo-Rooker, who has endorsed my opponent in the Democratic primary, would under the guise of providing information, deliberately mislead voters into thinking I was a Republican campaign strategist. Nothing is further from the truth. This is just another in a series of misleading and baseless attacks by my opponent and his campaign consultants.

My resume is perfectly clear, and my support of Democratic candidates, causes and values is unwavering.

In 1980, in my 30s, I began as a commercial market research analyst at a consulting firm. I worked in the business division doing commercial research and strategic development for groups like St. Lukes Hospital Center, the Greater New York Hospital Association, the Museum of Modern Art, and Home Box Office. I conducted over 250 market research studies for companies across the United States. I did not, at any time, during the 14 years I was with the firm work on any political campaigns for Democratic or Republican candidates.

When I joined the firm, all of the principals were Democrats and I was proud to be associated with the firm that ran Bill Clinton’s campaign for Governor of Arkansas and represented strong progressive Democratic leaders like Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan. The Rooker piece deliberately omitted information from the resume she cited that clearly stated that I only did business research and consulting – not political campaigns.

In 1996, I co-founded Vote the Coast and since that time have volunteered to elect strong Democratic candidates up and down the state including Debra Bowen, Hannah-Beth Jackson, and Alan Lowenthal. In 2004, I served as a top environmental advisor to former State Treasurer Phil Angelides’ campaign for Governor against Arnold Schwarzenegger.

I am proud that, unlike my opponents, Democrat or Republican, I have had the benefit of a strong career in business so I can tackle the problems California faces in restoring its economy and bringing jobs back to California. I know what it means to be responsible for a payroll, ensuring workers have health benefits, and paying a decent wage.

I look forward to a vigorous campaign on the issues. I hope my opponent changes course and decides to do the same.