Long Beach Mayor Foster endorses Lowenthal in 54th Assembly race
By Paul Eakins, Staff writer
Article Launched: 03/28/2008 01:42:34 PM PDT

LONG BEACH - Councilwoman Bonnie Lowenthal has scored the endorsement of Mayor Bob Foster in her bid for the 54th State Assembly District seat, her campaign announced Friday.

The news adds further momentum to Lowenthal's campaign that already was bolstered this week with endorsements from council members Patrick O'Donnell of the 4th District and Val Lerch of the 9th District. Another council member, Suja Lowenthal of the 2nd District, who is the candidate's daughter-in-law, is backing her as well.

Lowenthal is running against Councilwoman Tonia Reyes Uranga, whose 7th District borders Lowenthal's 1st District on the city's west side, for the Democratic nomination.

The winner of the June 3 state primary will move on to face the Republican nominee in the November general election. The top vote-getter in that contest will replace Assemblywoman Betty Karnette (D-Long Beach), who terms out this year.

 

Bonnie Lowenthal out-raises opponent in AD54 by 2 to 1 in 2007
Lowenthal raises $230,453; Uranga raises $121,622

Contact: Parke Skelton (626) 535-9616
 

Bonnie Lowenthal continues to dramatically out-fundraise her primary opponent Tonia Reyes Uranga according to just released end-of-the-year campaign filings.

The filings, covering the period through 12/31/07, show Lowenthal with a 2 to 1 advantage over Uranga.

                                    Raised 2007                         Raised 7/1-12/31                 Cash on hand

Lowenthal                    $230,453                            $121,142                            $196,251

Uranga                          $121,622                              $61,759                                $112,998

Lowenthal is seeking the Democratic nomination for the seat currently held by Betty Karnette.  Lowenthal has pledged not to run if Proposition 93 passes and Karnette decides to seek re-election.

Lowenthal combines a proven history of accomplishment in the community as a member of the Long Beach City Council and the Long Beach School Board, with strong fundraising, unbeatable name ID, powerful endorsements and a well-organized campaign effort.  Bonnie Lowenthal must be considered the early frontrunner for this potentially open seat.