With the election season in full swing, California voters will have a unique opportunity to fill a Senate seat by selecting both a short-term and long-term successor to the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein. The candidates on the ballot are Rep. Adam B. Schiff, a Democrat from Burbank, and former Dodgers All-Star Steve Garvey, a Republican from Palm Desert. They will compete in two separate elections: one to complete Feinstein’s term, which ends in early January, and another for a full six-year Senate term. This election marks the first U.S. Senate race in California without an incumbent since 2016, when Kamala Harris secured the seat previously held by retiring Sen. Barbara Boxer. Harris served four terms and is now running for President.
Following Harris’ swearing-in as Vice President in 2021, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Alex Padilla to take her place. Padilla later won a full six-year term in 2022. Regardless of whether Schiff or Garvey wins, California will be without a female senator for the first time in a generation.
in 2 Separate California Senate Races Measure BB: Schiff, Garvey Face Off
Schiff, 64, has represented Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley for nearly 30 years. He rose to national prominence during the impeachment trials of former President Trump, particularly through his role on the January 6 committee investigating the alleged conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election. His actions have attracted both praise and criticism, culminating in a censure from House Republicans in 2023, who accused him of misleading Congress regarding alleged collusion between Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russia. Schiff regards the censure as a “badge of honor.” Garvey, 75, is better recognized for his baseball career than his political endeavors. A standout first baseman for the Dodgers during the 1970s and 1980s, Garvey won a World Series title in 1981 and was a 10-time National League All-Star. Running as a first-time candidate, he presents himself as a “moderate conservative.” Despite a pristine public image, his personal life has been scrutinized due to past controversies and ongoing financial issues, including substantial unpaid debts and back taxes.
SC Residents Face Critical Decision on Measure to Fund Beach Maintenance
By Angelica Escobar
On Aug. 6 this year, the San Clemente City Council placed a question on the Nov. 5 ballot allowing voters to decide whether or not to increase the local sales tax by one-half of 1% to provide dedicated funds to improve and maintain the city’s coastal resources, primarily to place sand on San Clemente beaches.
Measure BB, if passed by voters, would generate a significant portion of the funding needed to improve and maintain the San Clemente waterfront and bring sand to the beaches. It is estimated that the increase would cost about $6.50 per month per resident and bring in about $6.75 million annually of the estimated $10 million per year needed to restore healthy beaches. The remaining funding will need to be provided through federal, state and county grants or allocations, private foundation funding, and reduction in expenditures on other projects.
“The City Council wanted to identify a funding source that requires visitors and tourists to help fund the projects needed at the beach,” explained San Clemente Mayor Victor Cabral. “A sales tax is the best strategy under our specific taxing structure to capture visitor dollars.” The mayor also stressed that sales tax is not assessed on groceries or prescription medications.
One of the biggest hurdles to the tax being implemented is that it requires two-thirds of the voters’ approval to be passed.
“Because the City Council wants the funding to be restricted to beachfront improvements and maintenance, primarily sand on the beach, the vote must pass at a higher threshold,” said City Manager Andy Hall. “If the City Council had chosen to place a more general tax on the ballot, it would have only required a simple majority, but the funds would not have been restricted to beach purposes. The strict use of funds was very important to the City Council.”
San Clemente residents and visitors have enjoyed more sand on the beach this summer. Phase I of a 50-year project with the Army Corps of Engineers placed more than 100,000 cubic yards of sand between T-Street and the Lifeguard Headquarters. Additionally, there is an ongoing project bringing about
30,000 cubic yards of sand to North Beach expected to be completed before the winter months. However, without additional funding, future sand projects could be in jeopardy.
At least part of the challenge is that the city lost two major sources of funding used for beachfront maintenance in the past several years. In 2012, the State of California dissolved Redevelopment Agencies, and in 2020, the commonly called Ocean Protection Fee expired. Together, these funding sources generated almost $5 million for the city.
“Without a new funding source, it is not possible to continue to fund sand projects without significant reductions in the current level of municipal services,” explained Brian Brower, the city’s Administrative Services Director. The continuation of the Army Corps’ projects is anticipated to cost about $2.5 million per year, and other sand projects are estimated to cost about $4 million per year.
Additional costs include improvements and maintenance of the Beach Trail and Mariposa Bridge, the T-Street pedestrian crossing replacement, and annual beach shaping to reduce the loss of sand.
While supporters of Measure BB argue it’s a necessary step toward maintaining San Clemente’s beaches and overall quality of life, some residents express concern over the potential economic burden. An increase in the sales tax could disproportionately affect low- and middle-income residents, especially those on fixed incomes, leading to a cumulative impact on household budgets. Moreover, residents question whether the proposed funding will effectively address the beach maintenance issues, suggesting that previous funding sources have not been sufficient. Some residents advocate for exploring alternative funding mechanisms, such as seeking more state or federal funding or private partnerships, rather than imposing additional costs on local residents.
More information about Measure BB can be found on the city’s website or by contacting the city manager. The San Clemente Times will be providing additional information on this important voter decision in future editions and exploring potential partnerships and the impact of beaches on the local economy.
City Council Candidate Forum at Ole Hanson Beach Club Highlights Visions for San Clemente District 3
By Angélica Escobar
The recent District 3 City Council Candidate Forum at Ole Hanson Beach Club showcased candidates discussing their visions for San Clemente. Current Councilmember Rick Loeffler and challengers Lois McNicoll, Amanda Quintanilla, and Angela Watts addressed key issues including the proposed sand tax, public safety, and North Beach development, emphasizing their community involvement and proposals for sustainable solutions.
The forum began with opening statements, starting with Amanda Quintanilla, who highlighted her 50 years in San Clemente and active community involvement. She emphasized her commitment to common-sense solutions, regular City Council attendance, and advocacy against the Amazon warehouse and proposed toll road through the city.
Lois McNicoll, a first-time District 3 City Council candidate, proposed private security for law enforcement, prioritizing local businesses for contracts, and a cost-effective sand restoration solution for 4.6 miles of beaches. She aims to promote transparency and public engagement.
Angela Watts, a small business owner, shared her journey into politics after her daughter’s school lockdown, leading her to form the Lost on the Safety Committee to enhance school security.
Rick Loeffler, a retired LAPD member with 36 years of service, has been active in San Clemente for seven years. As chair of the Public Safety Committee, he improved safety and revived a rejected security contract. Loeffler also leads the Friends of San Clemente Beaches and Arts Foundation, which has contributed over a million dollars to local camps.
The first question posed to the candidates was, “What experience do you have participating in San Clemente?” Here’s how they responded:
•McNicoll shared that, while she hasn’t volunteered traditionally, she has attended City Council meetings to advocate for the community and helped secure private security.
“I haven’t volunteered in the traditional sense, but I have dedicated my time to attending City Council meetings to stay informed about what’s happening in San Clemente,” she said.
• Watts highlighted her work with the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce during COVID-19 and her role as a volunteer for the Boy and Girls Club. “I’m excited to represent my friends and family members who don’t have a voice in this community on the City Council,” she said.
• Loeffler discussed his community engagement since retiring and his role on the Public Safety Committee. “I am deeply invested in this community. San Clemente is my first and only love,” he said.
• Quintanilla emphasized her advocacy for personal rights and public safety. “Yes, I have participated in City Council meetings for years, advocating for various issues such as personal rights, private security, public safety, and parking around Max Berg Park,” she said.
The next question was, “What other skill sets and experiences make you a productive councilmember?”
• Watts discussed her experience as a small business owner and her appearance on ABC’s Shark Tank, highlighting the need for a mother’s perspective on the council.
“Yes, I’m busy, but we all prioritize the things that matter to us, and safety for my kids is my top priority. I will always make the time. ... I can answer emails and phone calls, and I’ll see you at the park or the beach,” she said.
• Loeffler spoke about his 36 years with the LAPD, focusing on his problem-solving approach and commitment to equal service: “I respond to everyone and treat all residents the same way. ... I will continue to do this and be a voice for every resident.”
• Quintanilla, a registered nurse, highlighted her advocacy and humanitarian mission experience: “I am a registered nurse and a strong patient advocate. ... I’m committed to voicing concerns and being an advocate for everyone.”
•McNicoll shared her 35 years of government experience, stating, “I have 35 years of experience working in government, which allows me to translate complex government language into plain language that everyone can understand.”
The next question was, “If elected, how much time can you commit to this role?”
• Loeffler stated that serving on the City Council requires 30 to 40 hours a week to address resident concerns, emphasizing the importance of responsiveness. “It’s a 30- to 40-hour-aweek job if you do it right. ... It’s important for residents to know that they have my ear,” Loeffler said.
• Quintanilla highlighted her years of active community involvement and commitment to preparing for City Council meetings. “I come prepared to all City Council meetings, reading the agenda packets and conducting thorough research,” Quintanilla said.
• McNicoll, a retiree, expressed her dedication to local issues and concern over ineffective
communication from City Council meetings. “I’m retired, so I dedicate all my time to this ... information is not effectively communicated back to the public,” McNicoll said.
• Watts contended that being a working mother is an asset and expressed her commitment to fulfilling her responsibilities. “I am the right person for this job, because I am a working mother,” Watts said.
The next question was, “If elected, how would you prioritize the revitalization of North Beach?”
• Quintanilla emphasized historic preservation of the Miramar Theater and bowling alley, supporting a parking lot behind the theater and revitalizing the Ole Hanson Beach Club for community use.
•McNicoll praised the North Beach Placemaker Plan, especially the idea of an ice skating rink, while stressing the need to address parking issues with new developments.
• Watts highlighted sand replenishment and preserving the coastal charm while promoting local businesses and community activities.
• Loeffler discussed the need for Miramar improvements, noting his active role in monitoring progress.
The next question was, “What would you do to encourage business growth, and what businesses would you target?”
• McNicoll emphasized protecting small businesses over big chains, noting that rising rents are pushing out local shops, which are key to San Clemente’s charm. “Our city thrives on both the beach and the small businesses ... you can easily visit a multitude of little mom-and-pop stores,” McNicoll said.
• Watts agreed, stressing the need to promote tourism while keeping big investors out to protect local businesses. “Supporting them is essential, because this is what makes our town so special,” Watts said.
• Loeffler shared an example of helping a local business owner secure permits and stressed the need for more parking on Del Mar to revitalize the area. “The biggest issue we need to address is parking on Del Mar,” Loeffler said.
• Quintanilla agreed that parking, especially due to outdoor dining, is a concern for small businesses. “Outdoor dining takes away public parking, which limits access for those on Del Mar,” Quintanilla said.
The four San Clemente City Council candidates from District 3 pose after a candidate forum at Ole Hanson Beach Club on Sept. 24. From left: Angela Watts, Amanda Quintanilla, Rick Loeffler and Lois McNicoll. (Photo: Angelica Escobar)
SAN CLEMENTE
it’s time for NEW
VOTE ANGELA WATTS
for San Clemente District 3
When the city failed to keep her daughter safe, Angela got to work. She fought and secured major safety resources for Las Palmas Elementary School: … and she’s not done yet.
The next question was about addressing drug-related crime and property theft in North Beach and Max Berg Park.
• Watts stressed safety concerns after recent violent incidents. “I got involved ... a shooting and a stabbing. This is unacceptable,” Watts said.
• Loeffler pushed for strategic law enforcement and enhancing the Park Ranger program. “There’s a strategy. That’s why we’ve enhanced the Park Ranger program,” Loeffler said.
• Quintanilla discussed revising the RV ordinance after a 2022 shooting. “We reviewed the RV ordinance ... after the shooting on July 25, 2022,” Quintanilla said.
•McNicoll backed private security to help with minor issues. “We should supplement the sheriffs with private security,” McNicoll said.
The next question was about preventing public spaces from being used as encampments and enforcing regulations.
• Loeffler highlighted the work of Park Rangers and enforcement challenges at night. “Our outreach team is doing an excellent job. … This is what helps individuals move off the beach,” Loeffler said.
• Quintanilla discussed the impact of the Supreme Court ruling and the need for public outreach. “The City of San Clemente and the City Council passed an ordinance to update and align with that decision,” Quintanilla said.
•McNicoll expressed concerns about homelessness ahead of the 2028 Olympics. “I know what they need ... but some do not want help, because they don’t want to follow any rules,” McNicoll said.
• Watts emphasized the need for two additional deputies and affordable housing. “We have a housing crisis … we need to provide affordable housing for people,” Watts said.
The next question was about supporting a homeless shelter at the national or regional level.
•Quintanilla said she doesn’t support a homeless shelter in San Clemente but backs a regional one with regional funding. “I do support a regional shelter ... it’s been a concern for quite some time,” Quintanilla said.
•McNicoll agreed, noting San Clemente lacks essential services like hospitals and mental health facilities, making a local shelter impractical. “The county has many more resources ... allowing them to tap into those resources,” McNicoll said.
• Watts also opposed a local shelter, favoring a countywide approach. “I do not support a homeless shelter in the city ... we can help support our community outreach efforts,” Watts said.
• Loeffler mentioned attempts to collaborate regionally with no success due to a lack of county property, stressing the need for a county solution. “We didn’t gain any traction with the county,” Loeffler said.
The next question asked about supportive housing.
• McNicoll supports it only in areas with necessary resources, noting some homeless individuals have drug or mental health issues. She suggested places like Barstow for housing with services. “I support supportive housing if it’s located in an area that can provide the necessary resources,” McNicoll said.
• Watts supports supportive housing when “done right,” emphasizing compassion and local outreach efforts.
• Loeffler supports the concept but noted local facilities lack 24-hour services, increasing police involvement. He supports future projects, but said the city can’t afford to participate directly. “I would love to see successful, permanent supportive housing,” Loeffler said.
• Quintanilla raised concerns about the lack of medical staff and proper care for dual diagnosis individuals needing assistance. “Yes, there are no medical staff in supportive housing,” Quintanilla said.
The final question focused on whether candidates would support the sand tax (Measure BB) if it passes.
• Watts has no opinion on the tax and is leaving it up to the voters. “ I support sand in San Clemente. … Whether or not the sand tax passes on this ballot in November, we are going to need someone who you can trust that will ensure that that money goes to the right places,” Watts said.
•Quintanilla discussed beach erosion, funding issues for private bluffs, efforts to secure grants for sand replenishment, and Congressman Mike Levin’s success in obtaining 65% of the necessary funds. “I have been involved with coastal issues for over a year. I have submitted, there’s three Coastal Studies right now that are current,” she stated.
• Loeffler is also leaving the stance on Measure BB to the voters, but he is for the Sand Tax, stating, “As far as the sand tax goes, I’m personally in favor. I’m going to vote for it, but the only reason I voted was to put it on the ballot so the citizens can vote to say what their future is going to be. And I think that’s what’s important.”
• McNicoll is not in favor of the tax, because she said “it is tied to this Army Corps of Engineer project.”
The forum concluded with closing statements. Candidates encouraged community engagement and emphasized their commitment to making San Clemente a better place for all residents.
Photo Credit CUSD Insider (Photographer Michael Goulding)
Meet SC City Council Candidates for District 4: Zhen Wu, Sarah Schneider DISTRICT 4
By Angélica Escobar
As San Clemente approaches the Nov. 5 City Council elections, candidates Zhen Wu and Sarah Schneider are vying Chris Duncan’s expiring seat in District 4, each bringing distinct backgrounds and perspectives to the table.
Zhen Wu, a licensed California architect and certified planner, has lived in San Clemente since 2004. He holds dual Master’s degrees in Planning and Architecture from the University of Southern California. Throughout his residency, Wu and his wife have raised their son, who currently attends San Clemente High School. His active participation in local governance includes serving on the City of San Clemente Planning Commission and the Design Review Subcommittee from 2015 to 2021. He also contributed to the Coastal Advisory Committee during 2018-2019, focusing on coastal preservation and environmental sustainability.
In his campaign, Wu emphasizes public safety, advocating for adequate funding for police and fire services. He promotes fiscal responsibility, aiming for a balanced budget while effectively managing city resources. Addressing homelessness is also a priority for him, as he supports regional solutions and outreach programs. Wu is committed to maintaining San Clemente’s architectural heritage and coastal lifestyle and advocates for funding essential projects, including sand replenishment, which he considers critical for the community’s recreational and economic vitality. Wu believes that community engagement is vital to addressing local issues and prioritizes transparency in governance.
In contrast, Schneider is a candidate with a strong focus on community leadership and education. A Stanford University graduate with a degree in Political Science, Sarah has over a decade of experience in business roles at Fortune 500 technology companies. She currently works as a Library Media Technician in the Capistrano Unified School District. Her community involvement spans various roles, including Communication Director for the San Clemente Aquatics Swim Team and a Volunteer Alumni Interviewer for Stanford University’s Admissions Department. Sarah has also served as a parent volunteer at Concordia Elementary School in San Clemente, where all five of her children attended.
In her campaign, Schneider prioritizes public safety, coastal erosion, responsible development, and support for small businesses. She advocates for funding for police and fire departments to enhance community safety and emphasizes proactive initiatives including
sand replenishment to address coastal erosion. Schneider aims to promote development that respects the historical character of San Clemente while addressing the community’s affordable housing needs. Her commitment to addressing homelessness is evident in her efforts to collaborate with local organizations and government agencies to find comprehensive solutions to this complex issue.
As the election approaches, Wu and Schneider present their visions for the future of San Clemente. Both candidates seek to engage with the community and address the pressing issues facing District 4 residents, each offering a unique perspective on how best to serve their constituents. Their campaigns reflect a dedication to the well-being of San Clemente, and they are eager to hear from residents about their concerns and ideas for the future.
In this competitive election, voters in District 4 will have the opportunity to weigh the qualifications, priorities, and visions of both candidates as they make an informed decision about who will best represent their interests on the City Council.
CHRIS DUNCAN
FAMILIES
Bipartisan voice South OC needs in
Come to San Clemente for the First Time in 2024 District-Based Elections
By Angelica Escobar
Starting in 2024, San Clemente will move from citywide, at-large elections to a district-based voting system for City Council representatives. The new system, adopted by the City Council, divides the city into four districts, with each district electing one representative for a four-year term. The mayor will continue to be elected citywide for a two-year term, beginning in 2026.
The transition to district elections begins in November 2024, when voters in Districts 3 and 4 will elect their City Councilmembers. In November 2026, the election will include voters from Districts 1 and 2, along with the mayoral race. The council has finalized Map 120 as the official district map, which residents can review to determine their respective districts.
This shift comes after San Clemente received a letter in July 2023 challenging its at-large election process, citing the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA). The CVRA prohibits election systems that weaken the influence of minority voters. In response, the City Council passed Resolution No. 23-85 in August 2023, initiating the transition to by-district elections to comply with the CVRA.
While San Clemente voters rejected a similar proposal for by-district elections in 2018, with around 70% voting against it, the city’s decision does not protect it from CVRA-related legal challenges. Under the CVRA, plaintiffs need only demonstrate that at-large elections dilute minority voting power, a lower burden of proof than federal cases.
Faced with the risk of costly litigation, the City Council decided to transition to district-based elections within the state’s “safe harbor” period, which limits recoverable expenses to $37,000 if the city voluntarily adopts the change. If the city had not complied, legal battles could have cost up to several million dollars, as seen in other California cities including Palmdale and Santa Monica, which faced multimillion-dollar legal bills after
losing similar cases.
The city has finalized the voting districts following public hearings to gather community input on the boundaries. The finalized districts utilize population data from the U.S. Census Bureau, ensuring they are geographically contiguous, compact, and reflective of San Clemente’s communities of interest, including neighborhoods, schools, and shared socio-economic factors.
These community engagement efforts included opportunities for residents to voice their opinions and concerns about the districting process, with hearings held to discuss how the boundaries should be drawn. Public participation is essential in shaping a fair representation that reflects the diversity of San Clemente’s population.
San Clemente’s move to district elections is part of a broader trend in California, where numerous cities have faced similar legal challenges. While the transition involves significant changes for residents and the voting process, it aims to provide more equitable representation for all parts of the city. With district elections, local representatives can better address the unique needs of their communities, potentially leading to more focused governance and enhanced accountability.
As the city prepares for this new electoral landscape, officials emphasize the importance of educating residents about the changes and encouraging participation in the upcoming elections. The City Council is committed to ensuring that the new system fosters community involvement and reflects the voices of all constituents.
With these changes on the horizon, San Clemente stands at a pivotal moment in its electoral history, aiming to enhance democratic processes and representation for all residents. The council urges residents to stay informed and engaged as the city moves forward into this new chapter.
Candidates Chris Duncan and Laurie Davies Share Their Visions 74th State Assembly
By Angélica Escobar
As the race for the California 74th Assembly District intensifies, two candidates from South Orange County are laying out their visions to address the key issues facing their district: current San Clemente City Councilmember Chris Duncan and incumbent Assemblymember Laurie Davies. Duncan, a longtime San Clemente resident and former mayor, is campaigning on improving representation for his district in Sacramento. His priorities include public safety, cost-ofliving concerns, homelessness, and coastal protection, ensuring that local tax dollars are spent on community needs like sand replenishment and bluff stabilization.
Duncan emphasizes public safety, noting that San Clemente relies on the Orange County Sheriff’s Department for police services. He played a pivotal role in hiring Chief of Police Services Jay Christian and supports adding more deputies and code compliance officers to maintain cleanliness in parks and beaches.
“I was proud to be the councilmember and mayor who advocated for adding four more deputy sheriffs, which we successfully implemented. I also played a key role in adding more code compliance officers, specifically park rangers, to keep our parks and beaches clean,” Duncan said.
Addressing homelessness is another of Duncan’s priorities. Instead of accepting temporary state funding for emergency solutions, he chose to hire outreach workers, aiming to build trust with the homeless community and focus on long-term solutions, such as supportive housing with mental health services.
“We want to address the long-term causes of homelessness, and that’s what our homeless outreach team was empowered to do, and that’s what they did. And so I’m proud that we were able to make that progress,” Duncan said.
As a board member of the Orange County Fire Authority, Duncan has also advocated for additional resources, including new firefighting helicopters, to ensure adequate attention is given to South Orange County’s wildfire risks.
“I have ensured that San Clemente receives its fair share from the fire service and fought for greater wildland protection. Most recently, I authorized the purchase of two new fire helicopters that deliver water to combat fires,” he said.
Duncan is a vocal advocate for women’s reproductive rights, standing against efforts to limit such services in San Clemente.
“I proudly stood with residents from all walks of life to fight back against a previous attempt by some extreme City Councilmembers to outlaw women’s reproductive services and Planned Parenthood in our community. It’s vital to ensure that no extremist resolution that undermines women’s rights ever gets on our agenda again,” he said.
In contrast, Duncan accuses his opponent, Laurie Davies, of supporting a nationwide abortion ban. “Laurie Davies supported a nationwide abortion ban, even in cases of rape and incest, which contradicts community values of freedom and choice,” Duncan said.
Davies, first elected to the Laguna Niguel City Council in 2012 and later serving as its mayor, is focusing her campaign on keeping prices affordable and neighborhoods safe. Elected to the California State Assembly in 2020 and reelected in 2022, she has called for significant tax reforms, including the removal of the gas tax, an
issue she says resonates with many residents.
“I think No. 1, we want to make sure that we can go ahead and get rid of the gas tax. ... I had voted on that six times on the floor, and unfortunately, they voted to the super majority to not even have it voted on,” Davies said.
Davies advocates for providing tax credits to renters, particularly seniors on fixed incomes, and insists that such measures can be implemented without negatively affecting the state budget.
“I really believe that we need to provide a tax credit to renters, especially for our seniors who are on a fixed income. There are common-sense methods we can implement that won’t be detrimental to the rest of the state,” she said.
Davies also stresses the need for accountability in state spending, particularly on homelessness. She co-authored a measure that revealed $25 billion was spent on homelessness without producing clear results. “They came up and said, ‘We understand now that the audit revealed an increase in homelessness, but they were never held accountable,’ “ she said.
Additionally, Davies criticizes Gov. Gavin Newsom for cutting funding for firefighter mitigation efforts and has consistently supported legislation aimed at bolstering law enforcement resources and mental health services for first responders. “We need to ensure our police have the support they need to keep our neighborhoods safe,” Davies said.
When discussing homelessness, Davies highlights compassion and understanding as crucial elements. She emphasizes the importance of training law enforcement and social workers to effectively identify and assist individuals with conditions such as autism or mental illness, fostering a supportive environment that encourages trust.
“I think that the key thing is compassion, compassion and understanding,” she said, describing her support for a homeless task force that works with social workers.
Reflecting on her time serving the 74th Assembly District, Davies expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent her community and underscored her commitment to bipartisanship. She pointed to her A rating on her voting record and encouraged constituents to visit her website for accurate information, refuting claims from her opponent. She also discussed personal challenges, including her absence due to her mother’s illness, while stressing that her legislative achievements—23 bills signed into law, all focused on enhancing safety and reducing the cost of living—speak for themselves.
“My opponent tends to lie or mislead people when it comes to the things that he’s saying about me. So when it comes to my voting record, I have an A voting record, and he knows that I had an excused absence because my mother was dying, and so I needed to leave,” Davies said.
As the election approaches, voters in San Clemente face a significant decision, weighing each candidate’s approach to public safety, housing, and community well-being. Duncan calls for change and a focus on local needs, while Davies emphasizes her experience and commitment to addressing California’s challenges.
The 74th Assembly District includes San Clemente, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel and San Juan Capistrano in South Orange County, down through Camp Pendleton, Oceanside, Vista and part of Fallbook in North San Diego County.
