The year 2010 is going down as a year for not just women candidates, but newcomers. One of the female newcomers is AT writer Linda Halderman, who handily won the Republican nomination for the 29th Assembly District in California. The Fresno Bee reports:
In the Fresno County-based district, Republican Linda Halderman was poised for victory over Clovis City Council Member Bob Whalen and Madera County farmer Don McKinney. Incumbent Mike Villines is termed out of the GOP-dominated district. [...]
Halderman, a general surgeon and legislative staffer, was a late entry into the race but won the backing of conservative groups and posted better fundraising numbers than her opponents.
"I'm not a very typical candidate. I'm not a career politician. My ideas come from the private sector," Halderman said. "I think that's what's resonated with a lot of people."
The race was a calm one, featuring polite exchanges between the candidates. Conceding defeat, Whalen said "I think Linda's going to do a great job as an Assembly member." McKinney could not be reached to comment late Tuesday.
Final election results show that Halderman easily won the GOP race against two other candidates, and also drew more votes than the unopposed Democrat running for the nomination. She should be an easy victor.
The California State Assembly will be crucial battleground for fiscal reform. The Democrats have long dominated both houses of the California legislature and have spent the state into virtual bankruptcy. It remains to be seen whether or not voters will throw out the Democrats, but even if not, principled, intelligent, and energetic legislators such as Dr. Halderman will play a huge role in restoring sanity to the Golden State. Keep in mind that the California state government budget is roughly that of France. Controlling its $100 billion-plus annual budget is a major task.
It is not inconceivable that the state could enter bankruptcy, unable to pay its bills, especially if the legislature refuses to cut spending. Dr Halderman will have her work cut out for her if she wins the 29th District seat.
Dr. Halderman's campaign website is found here.
See also today in AT: Sarah Palin the big winner Tuesday, unions the big loser
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