Tony Thurmond, California State Superintendent, declares bid for Governor.

State Supt. of Public ⁣Instruction Tony Thurmond Announces Run for Governor ‌of California

In an exciting announcement on ‍September ⁤26, State Supt. of Public ⁣Instruction Tony Thurmond declared‍ his candidacy for ⁢governor⁢ of California. As a Democrat, Thurmond aims to tackle‍ income inequality, improve school funding, and accelerate the state’s shift to renewable energy.

“Our campaign isn’t ​about any one⁣ person. It’s about people who are⁤ struggling‍ across our state,” he passionately expressed in a video ‍unveiling his campaign. “California should be a place ‍where everyone has a chance to succeed.”

During the video, Thurmond shared his ⁣challenging⁤ upbringing, recounting how his family relied on food stamps, government assistance, ‌and even government cheese⁣ to survive. He also mentioned ⁤working multiple jobs⁣ to put ‍himself through Temple University in Philadelphia, an experience​ that taught him ​the value of hard work and⁤ the struggles faced by workers.

Thurmond went on to earn dual master’s degrees in law​ and ⁣social policy and social work from Bryn Mawr ​College in ​Pennsylvania, eventually becoming ‌a social worker. His political career includes serving on ⁣the Richmond City Council from ⁣2005 to 2008 and the West Contra Costa ⁣Unified School District Board of ​Education‍ from 2008 to ‌2012. He then served in ⁤the state Assembly from ‍2014 to 2018 before‌ being elected⁣ as state ‍superintendent of ‍public instruction for two terms.

Thurmond joins Lt.‍ Gov. Eleni Kounalakis and former​ Controller Betty Yee as⁢ candidates for the 2026 gubernatorial​ race, aiming to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom, who will have reached⁢ his term limit.

As state superintendent, Thurmond has recently been actively involved in debates concerning parental rights and LGBT content in schools. In July, he opposed the Chino Valley Unified School District’s‌ policy that required staff to⁣ inform ​parents if their‌ child changed pronouns or gender⁤ identity. This policy led⁢ to⁤ a lawsuit filed by Attorney General Rob Bonta in August, who argued that it discriminated against LGBT students. ‌Last month, ‌a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order for the policy pending litigation.

Furthermore, Thurmond has​ shown ‌support for Assembly Bill 1078, ‍which has now been signed​ into law by the governor. This bill prohibits school boards from rejecting textbooks that⁢ cover critical race theory or gender ideology.

How does Tony ⁣Thurmond plan to lead California in transitioning to renewable energy sources and combating climate change

Perseverance.

Thurmond has served⁤ as the State Supt. of Public ⁣Instruction since 2019, where⁤ he has been dedicated‌ to improving education in California. Throughout his tenure, he has focused on closing ‍the⁣ achievement gap, expanding access to early education programs, ​and ⁤advocating for ‍increased resources for schools and teachers.

One of Thurmond’s key ⁤priorities as governor ⁤would be tackling ⁢income inequality. He believes that every Californian ⁣should have ‍the opportunity to⁣ succeed,⁤ regardless⁤ of their socioeconomic background. Thurmond plans to implement policies that will promote economic growth, create‍ job opportunities, and ensure that all residents have access to affordable ⁣housing and quality healthcare.

In addition, Thurmond is committed to improving school funding in California. He understands the importance of providing schools with the resources they need to provide a​ high-quality education to all students. Thurmond will work to increase funding for⁤ public schools,​ support educators, and invest in programs that address the diverse needs ​of students, such as special education and English language learners.

Another critical issue that Thurmond aims ​to ⁣address is climate change. He believes that California ⁣should lead the way in transitioning to renewable energy sources and combating climate change. Thurmond plans to invest in clean and sustainable‍ energy solutions, promote green jobs, and reduce the ⁣state’s carbon footprint.

Thurmond’s announcement has gained support​ from various individuals and organizations, including members ⁣of‍ the ⁤Democratic⁤ Party, educators, and‌ environmental advocates. They believe that Thurmond’s experience and dedication to public service make him an ideal candidate⁤ for governor.

However, Thurmond will face strong competition in ⁣the gubernatorial race. He will need to​ distinguish himself from other candidates and articulate a clear vision for California’s ​future. Thurmond’s message of inclusivity, equality, and ⁣sustainability resonates with many voters, but he will need to effectively communicate his plans and gain the trust and support of the‌ electorate.

As⁢ the campaign progresses, it will ​be interesting to see how Thurmond’s ⁣candidacy evolves and how he addresses the challenges ⁣facing California. The outcome of the gubernatorial race will have significant⁣ implications for the state and its residents,‌ making it a crucial election ‌to⁢ watch.

In‌ conclusion, State Supt. of Public ⁣Instruction Tony Thurmond’s announcement to run for governor of California brings a fresh perspective and ⁤a strong‍ commitment to addressing critical issues such as income inequality, school funding, and renewable energy. With⁤ his experience, passion, and focus on serving the people, Thurmond has the potential to make ⁢a significant impact⁤ on the ⁣state if elected as governor. As the ​campaign ‌unfolds, it will be interesting to see how he ⁣navigates the political landscape and engages with voters to earn their support and trust.

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