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-Editorial
As the 36th State Assembly District election nears, five Democratic candidates gathered on December 28th to discuss issues impacting the Imperial Valley. Hosted at the Prestige Event Center in Heber, the event offered a platform for candidates to present their stances on key topics and engage in constructive dialogue with constituents.
Amidst the intensifying race, the forum provided voters an opportunity to assess candidates’ positions on critical Imperial County and district-wide issues. Stella Jimenez moderated the event.
Competing to succeed outgoing Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia are Tomas Oliva, Edgard Garcia, Joey Acuña, Eric Rodriguez, and Waymond Fermond. They addressed community-centric issues during the event.
Fermond, a City of Indio council member, emphasized prioritizing educational opportunities, public health, and family safety. He highlighted their role in fostering thriving communities and attracting businesses. He committed to promoting public safety through youth engagement, faith-based community involvement, supporting community policing, and advocating for increased resources and mentorship programs.
Acuña, aspiring for State Assembly, is committed to ensuring accessible world-class education, quality jobs, affordable housing, and environmental health for district children. Endorsed by Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia, he vows to enhance and safeguard the quality of life across Imperial, Riverside, and San Bernardino County communities.
Rodriguez aims to tackle critical district challenges, including crises at the New River and Salton Sea, healthcare, water rights, and accessibility. He pledges collaborative efforts with various local representatives and unions for positive change.
Garcia, with extensive community service experience, plans to address vital issues in Sacramento, prioritizing healthcare, infrastructure, water protection, public safety, education, job creation, and overall community well-being.
Oliva, currently serving on El Centro City Council, considers it an honor to contribute to community progress. His involvement in public health-related matters through the hospital board and his understanding of Imperial Valley’s unique challenges prepare him for Assembly service.
Assembly District 36 encompasses Riverside, Imperial, and San Bernardino counties, including cities like Indio, Coachella, Mecca, Thermal, Blythe, Westmorland, Holtville, Heber, Brawley, El Centro, Calipatria, Imperial, Calexico, Blythe, Salton Sea Beach, Seeley, Winterhaven, and Needles.
