SAN DIEGO – Today on the heels of endorsements from respected leaders Lori Saldaña and Donna Frye, Democrat David Alvarez, San Diego City Councilmember and mayoral candidate gained the backing of State Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins.
Atkins said one reason she’s supporting Alvarez is because she knows first-hand what it takes to govern San Diego after a period of crisis. Chosen by her City Council colleagues to serve as interim mayor following the resignation of Dick Murphy, Atkins said Alvarez embodies the qualities San Diego needs to get the City back on track.
“San Diego needs a steady hand on the tiller of government after our recent turmoil,” Atkins stated. “Councilmember Alvarez has the experience and leadership to lead our City back to stability and restore confidence in government.”
Alvarez said he was elated to have Atkins’ endorsement.
“Toni Atkins has dedicated herself to serving San Diego for so long, in good times and through tough times like we’ve had over the last few months,” Alvarez said. “She’s a leader who brings everyone to the table to find compromise without compromising her values. I’m proud to have her support.”
The son of a janitor and fast food worker, Alvarez grew up in an industrial area whose people have often been forgotten by the movers and shakers downtown. His commuity Barrio Logan has faced environmental degradation that impacts residents’ health.
Atkins said she could relate.
“As a coal miner’s daughter, I understand how experiences like these create a commitment to social, economic and environmental justice for every person,” stated Atkins.
This week’s passage of the Barrio Logan Community Plan Update compromise which Alvarez led, added to his list of accomplishments that have improved the well-being of San Diego’s neighborhoods. To achieve the compromise, Alvarez had to bring all stakeholders to the table.
Atkins said this is one of Alvarez’s most important qualifications to be San Diego’s next mayor.
“Councilmember Alvarez has a track record of working with both sides to find common ground,” Atkins added. “That’s why he has support from across the spectrum – from working families to business owners, to community leaders.”
“He will be a great mayor for this City.”
