Farm Bureau endorses Kevin McCarthy for assembly re-election

» September 21, 2004 «

The California Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors has endorsed Assembly Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Bakersfield, for re-election in the 32nd Assembly District.

"In two short years, Kevin McCarthy has established himself as a respected leader in the state Legislature," California Farm Bureau President Bill Pauli said. "We look forward to continued cooperation with him, in tackling the issues facing California."

McCarthy is the first freshman member to become Assembly Republican Leader, assuming the post in January.

He was a key figure in this summer's repeal of an illegal tax that had been imposed by the Legislature in the final days of the Davis administration. The tax would have collected $105 million from rural landowners in State Responsibility Areas. Farm Bureau challenged the so-called "benefit fee" in court and the Legislature.

"Kevin McCarthy played a crucial role in repealing that illegal tax," Pauli said. "In coming years, he will work with Governor Schwarzenegger to continue changing the 'business-as-usual' atmosphere that once prevailed in the state Capitol."

McCarthy's district includes much of Kern County, which produces more than $2.4 billion in crops and commodities each year.

"As the former owner of a small business, Assemblyman McCarthy understands the issues facing farms, ranches and all small businesses," Pauli said. "He will continue working to improve California's job climate and reduce bureaucratic barriers to business."

The California Farm Bureau Federation, the state's largest farm organization, will mobilize nearly 90,000 members statewide to influence the outcome of the November election.

Contact: Kiran Black
Phone: 916/561-5550
news@cfbf.com

Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the California Farm Bureau Federation when reprinting this item.