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In one of the closest races in State Senate history, Juan Vargas has defeated Mary Salas in the Democratic primary for Senate District 40. Vargas was endorsed by UDW.
Vargas, a former assemblyman from San Diego, won the overtime victory nearly two months after the June 8 primary in the 40th District, which stretches from south San Diego County to Riverside and Imperial counties. He will face Republican Brian Hendry in the November election.
In his victory statement, Vargas said:
“The time has come to take a stand — to blaze a bold new trail and once again make California the state of possibilities.
“I know we can do this if we work together.
“As one of 10 children, born and raised on a small farm, I leaned from my parents at a young age that anything is possible and that no dream is too big if you work hard to achieve it…
“As your senator, I will passionately promote policies that reflect a vision for the future in which we measure our progress not merely in the quantity of our goods but in the quality of our lives – the purity of the air we breathe and the water we drink; the safety of our streets and the excellence of our schools and healthcare system.
“Thank you once again for joining me in this cause. Let’s win in November and turn California around.”
Salas actually had declared victory shortly after the election, having gained a slim lead. But Vargas closed the gap as outstanding absentee and provisional ballots were counted and wound up with a 22-vote lead when tallies in the three counties were completed.
Salas ultimately decided for a recount in San Diego and Riverside counties — where she led — but not in Imperial County, where Vargas dominated. However, as the recount progressed, Vargas maintained his lead.
“We are delighted that Juan Vargas, a candidate who truly cares about homecare providers and the people we serve, has won this important election,” said UDW Executive Director Doug Moore. “UDW was instrumental in this campaign. The hours our members in the 40th District spent phone-banking and precinct-walking, as well as the mailers and e-mail blasts we sent, clearly helped make the difference in this race.
“We will work just as hard to help him win in November,” Moore said.
Yesss!!!! I am a friend and long time supporter of Juan Vargas. I trust he he will represent and fulfill his promises.