SANTA BARBARA – Former Lieutenant Governor Abel Maldonado will be going head to head against Congresswoman Lois Capps who has represented the area for more than a decade as he pulled his required papers to run for office.
Maldonado went to the Santa Barbara County Elections Office on Monday and filled out his forms, received his nomination papers and wrote out a check to the Secretary of State for $1,740.
At a press conference, Maldonado stood with his 16-year-old son as he made his announcement. He said he has the experience in government to lead the 24th District and the knowhow of running a small business that makes him a viable candidate.
"We understand what it is to create economic stability, we understand the employment of the workforce and we understand what needs to happen in order to bring America back on its feet," said the former lieutenant governor.
Maldonado said he expects to be a front runner in the race and take the seat that Congresswoman Capps currently has.
"Lois has been in office now 14 years, so if the people of this district believe that Lois can change America in the next two years, then they aught to be voting for Lois Capps but I believe that America is ready for a new direction," he said. "We are on the wrong track."
If elected Maldonado said he will focus on bringing more jobs to the Central Coast, work to protect the coastline and bring clean energy to the district.
Completed election forms need to be filed with the Santa Barbara County Elections Office by March 9. Maldonado will need at least 40 and up to 60 valid signatures of registered voters.
