California Legislative Black Caucus Endorses Karen Bass’ Congressional Bid

Tuesday, March 16, 2010
SACRAMENTO – Today the California Black Legislative Caucus announced their support of Speaker Emeritus Karen Bass in her bid for the 33rd Congressional District seat. 

“As Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, I am proud to support Karen Bass’ candidacy and communicate the official endorsement of the entire California Legislative Black Caucus,” said Assemblymember Sandre Swanson (D-Oakland). “Speaker Emeritus Bass will be a visionary Congresswoman, a champion for her constituency, and a progressive national leader.”

“Karen’s dedication to protect public education, health care for children and the most vulnerable in our state speaks loudly of her personal character and unquestioned commitment to public service,” said Assistant Speaker pro Tempore Isadore Hall, III (D-Compton). “I am grateful for her friendship and proud to support Karen Bass for Congress.”

“As a former Congressional staffer, I can assure you that Speaker Emeritus Bass has the proper skill set, temperament and leadership qualities to help move this nation forward,” said Assemblymember Steven Bradford (D-Gardena). “She will be a welcomed addition to make a fine member of Congress.”

“Speaker Emeritus Bass is a proven leader with legislative and public service credentials to rival anyone in California politics,” said Senator Curren Price (D-Los Angeles).

“I would like to thank the Legislative Black Caucus for their continued support,” said Bass. “It is very important to me to have the backing of so many well-respected colleagues that have stood beside me in working towards progress.” During her tenure in the Legislature, Bass commissioned a report to research the demographic profile of Black Californians and provide a better understanding of the basic social and economic conditions faced by the community.

As Speaker, Bass was able to deliver bipartisan results such as protecting 600,000 children from losing their health care, restoring the governor’s cuts to domestic violence programs and helping Californians be eligible for continued federal unemployment benefits.  She even took savings from the Assembly’s budget and gave them to help speed unemployment claims in the state.

Bass launched her congressional campaign last month after the incumbent, the Honorable Diane Watson, announced her retirement and subsequently endorsed Bass. In addition to Representative Watson, Bass has received endorsements from Senator Dianne Feinstein, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, City Controller Wendy Greuel and other elected officials and organizations including EMILY’s list.