Assembly Candidates Cite Health Care Issues Among Legislative Priorities
Candidates for the Assembly seats representing the 17th and 25th districts cite health care issues among their legislative priorities if elected in the Nov. 2 election, the Fresno Bee reports. Summaries of their positions appear below.
Incumbent Barbara Matthews (D-Stockton) cited her past experience in the Assembly, including sponsorship of legislation to reform Medi-Cal. Matthews is seeking her third term in the Assembly. If elected, it would be her final term because of term limits.
Challenging Matthews is Nellie McGarry (R), an owner and manager of rental properties in Merced. McGarry said she would work to repeal laws that hurt the business community. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) has endorsed McGarry.
District 17 includes Merced County and parts of San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties.
Incumbent Dave Cogdill (R-Modesto), who also is seeking a third term, said he would work to improve health care in rural areas, as well as continue other efforts in the Assembly.
Challenger Bryan Justin Marks (D), a recent graduate of California State University-Stanislaus, also said he would work to improve health care.
District 25 includes Calaveras, Mariposa, Mono and Tuolumne counties and parts of Madera and Stanislaus counties (Fitzenberger, Fresno Bee, 10/18).