Gilmore wavering on running again?
UPDATE, 5:20 p.m.: Gilmore just released this statement:
"I have dedicated my life to public service. First as a United States Marine and then as a California Highway Patrolman for 31 years.
I have been open about my frustrations with how the Legislature is run. It is a privilege to serve with my Republican colleagues who have provided enormous support throughout this process.
The filing deadline for running for reelection is not until March of 2010. Candidly, I would probably not seek reelection if I had to make that decision today. I am still discussing this important decision with my family and members of the community that I have served for all these years.
Regardless of the decision that is ultimately made, I will keep working very hard and continue my efforts to improve life for the people of the 30th Assembly District. I remain committed to continuing to provide the best possible constituent service for the people of my district."
Valley political junkies might soon get the match up they've been dying for: Parra vs. Florez.
Rumors are swirling today that Hanford Republican Danny Gilmore might not seek a second Assembly term in 2010. And if he leaves, the father of Nicole Parra might take on state Sen. Dean Florez's mother, Fran, in a race that would pit two families that have feuded for years.
"If there aren't any serious challengers to [Fran Florez], then he would seriously consider running against her," Nicole Parra said of her father, Pete.
First things first: Despite the rumors, Gilmore has not confirmed anything. However, the California Target Book, which analyzes legislative races, reported this morning that "two separate, reliable sources have informed the Target Book that incumbent [Gilmore] has made the decision to not run for re-election to his assembly seat next year. The reason? He doesn't enjoy the job."
Gilmore did not return calls from the Bee today.
Gilmore beat Fran Florez in 2008, giving the Republicans control of a district they have sought for years. But Gilmore has apparently had a rough go in his first term.
In a recent interview with the Bakersfield Californian, he bemoaned "horrid" budget cuts he's been forced to vote on. "I pray every day. I have doubts about whether I am making a difference," he told the newspaper. "I have sleepless nights."
Pete Parra is a Democrat so he'd have to take Florez on in the primary in June. Nicole Parra said her dad was considering running as a Republican. But the deadline to switch parties and still run has passed, according to the Secretary of State.
The Parra-Florez feud is legendary in the Valley and was rekindled last year when Nicole Parra, who served as a Democrat in the Assembly, endorsed Gilmore to fill her seat. She later re-registered as an independent.
The families have been battling for years. Dean Florez, D-Shafter, years ago ran one of his office staffers, Michael Rubio, against Pete Parra, for a seat on the Kern County Board of Supervisors. Parra, the longtime incumbent, lost the race.
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