A fourth Republican, with a long resume of political involvement, has announced his candidacy for the 36th Congressional District.
Doug Hassett of La Quinta confirmed to Uken Report on Sunday that he is seeking the Republican nomination in the California June 5 Primary.
Hassett joins Dan Ball, Kimberlin Brown Pelzer and Stephan Wolkowicz. All are seeking the seat now held by Democratic Congressman Raul Ruiz.
Prior to Hassett’s entry into the race, the East Valley Republican Women Federated “overwhelmingly” endorsed Brown Pelzer, after meeting with her, Ball and Wolkowicz.
Hassett first announced his candidacy at Candidate Night sponsored by the Republican Party of Riverside County in Riverside.
In his announcement flier, Hassett, who has lived in the District for 26 years, presents himself as the candidate with the greatest length of time in the District.
In addition, Sen. Jeff Stone appointed him as a State Delegate for the 36th District, according to the announcement. He also touts his “long-time” membership or association with Republican Clubs as well as list of political appointments.
“There is no question as to my community involvement,” Hassett said in his prepared announcement. “I’ve been engaged and volunteering to make a difference. Now, it’s time to do more. Like most conservatives I think daily about the importance of small government, a fair tax system, national security, our border and immigration, and, of course, the cost and method of delivering health care.”
These are the big-picture items being addressed at the national level, Hassett said in the announcement, adding that he’s ready to enter these debates.
“However,” he emphasized, “Congress is a federal position that first and foremost must connect to the issues that matter to our wonderfully unique district.”
He said he concerned about water rights and farmers in Blythe, infrastructure improvements including separate truck lanes east bound to Chiriaco Summit and westbound to Indio. Hassett also expressed concern about the “pockets of extreme poverty,” some of which is less than 15 miles from his home.
Hassett said he is also concerned about the creation of Sanctuary Cities and the “severing of cooperation and communication between federal and local law enforcement agencies.”
Finding a long-lasting solution to restoring the Salton Sea is also one of his priorities.
California’s 36th Congressional is located in the southeastern portion of the state and includes most of Riverside County, including the area from Hemet to Blythe. It also includes the desert communities of Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indio, Coachella, Rancho Mirage, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells and Cathedral City.
