State Assemblyman Sebastian Ridley-Thomas, who previously represented the 54th Assembly District, has officially resigned due to health concerns, and new candidates have wasted no time in throwing their hats into the ring to replace him. So far, four candidates are seeking the honor: Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Steve Dunwoody, Joey Hill, and Ashlee Marie Preston. Martin Feinberg, Realtor, notes that each is a registered Democrat.
Sydney Kamlager-Dove is currently president of the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) Board of Trustees and district director for California State Senator Holly J. Mitchell. She just announced her candidacy.
Kamlager-Dove stated, “I’m excited about the prospect of representing Los Angeles and Culver City residents of the 54th Assembly District in the State Capitol. I intend to promote an agenda centered on workforce development, providing career opportunities for men and women and ensuring strong environmental protections. I will continue my goal to make public college education more affordable and accessible and to end criminal justice disparities.”
U.S. Representative Karen Bass and Senator Holly Mitchell, both of who represent those living within the Culver City Real Estate area, support Kamlager-Dove in her run.
Steve Dunwoody works as the California Director of the Vet Voice Foundation of VoteVets.org, a national organization of 500,000 veterans, family members, and active military. He is also a member of the Sierra Club, Community Coalition and the Black Cooperative Investment Fund. He serves on the Young Professionals Council of the LGBT Center and National Association of Black Veterans and was named Democrat of the Year for the 54th Assembly District.
Ashlee Marie Preston is a transgender activist and previously served as the editor-in-chief of Wear Your Voice magazine.
Joey Hill is a legislative staff member and ran against Ridley-Thomas in 2013 before backing out of the race to support Sebastian prior to the election.
Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. has not stated exactly when the election for the 54th Assembly District will be held, but it is expected that he will call for a special election soon. According to California rules, the race will begin with a primary election. If no candidate receives 50% of the vote however, it will be followed by a runoff between the top two candidates.
Martin Feinberg, Culver City Realtor, wishes all the candidates luck in their endeavors.
