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Press release from the Rusty Hicks for Assembly campaign:

Today the Rusty Hicks for Assembly (AD-2) Campaign is proud to announce a major endorsement from California Governor Gavin Newsom. “I support Rusty Hicks for State Assembly because he delivers real results for working families – such as his leadership in raising the minimum wage for one million workers,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “He’s the one we can count on to help make housing, health care, prescriptions, college, and broadband more accessible and affordable. He doesn’t back down from big fights. We can count on Rusty to protect our air, water, forest, and coastline — and tackle the climate crisis head on.”

Rusty’s personal life experience informs his belief in the power of a second chance and a quality education for all. At 14-years old, Rusty attended his father’s graduation when he earned a high school diploma while incarcerated. This moment had a profound impact on them both. As a result, Rusty currently serves as an Associate Professor at College of the Redwoods and teaches American Government to incarcerated students at Pelican Bay State Prison. Each week, he brings more than 20 years of first-hand experience to the classroom to share the story of our Nation’s founding, and the many challenges and opportunities we face.

“Rusty Hicks has a different life story and will bring a fresh perspective to the State Legislature,” Governor Newsom added. “Raised by a single mom, Rusty has dedicated himself to service as a union leader, veteran, and educator. His father was incarcerated as he was growing up. Now, Rusty teaches students at Pelican Bay State Prison because he believes in the power of a second chance.”

Governor Newsom joins current Assemblymember Jim Wood, and former Assemblymembers Patty Berg and Wesley Chesbro - all three of the most recent Assemblymembers to represent the North Coast for the last 20 years in the State Assembly - in endorsing Hicks. 

Click here to view the complete endorsement list.