Gavin Newsom Endorses Betsy Butler
Butler is "a tireless advocate for consumers and our environment, and is an exceptional legislator," California's lieutenant governor says.
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California Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom is endorsing Assemblywoman Betsy Butler in her run for the state's new 50th Assembly District, Butler's campaign announced Tuesday morning.
Butler, D-Marina del Rey, currently holds the 53rd Assembly District seat, which she won in November. The 50th Assembly District includes Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Malibu and West Hollywood.
Butler “is a tireless advocate for consumers and our environment, and is an exceptional legislator,” Newsom said in a statement. “Assemblymember Butler and I have been working together to grow jobs and make California an economic leader again.”
Butler also recently won the backing of Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, State Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones and the progressive group The Women’s Political Committee.
“I am proud to have the support of Lieutenant Governor Newsom,” Butler said. “He and I share a commitment to bring good jobs back to California and expand our green-energy economy.”
Butler has also been endorsed by Assembly Speaker John Pérez, California Democratic Party Vice Chair Alex Rooker and Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca. Organizations backing Butler include the Legislative LGBT Caucus and the Legislative Women’s Caucus.
Butler's primary opponent appears to be Torie Osborn, who is running for office for the first time. The liberal activist has earned endorsements from Sheila Kuehl (who was the 41st District representative from 1994 to 2000); Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa; Congresswoman Karen Bass; Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl; the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund; and the California Nurses Association.
Assemblywoman Julia Brownley, who is leaving the 41st Assembly District due to term limits, has endorsed both Butler and Osborn. So has Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel.
The top two vote-getters from the 50th Assembly District primary contest, regardless of party affiliation, will face off in the November general election.
Don't miss Patch's recent interviews with Assemblywoman Betsy Butler and Torie Osborn.
