Crime & Safety

State Senator Who Wants to Represent the Pass Touts Endorsements by D.A.s

Bill Emmerson, R-Hemet, is running against newcomer Melissa Ruth O'Donnell, D-Highland.

The state senator running for re-election to represent Banning, Beaumont and other San Gorgonio Pass communities announced Monday Oct. 15 he has been endorsed by Riverside County District Attorney Paul Zellerbach and San Bernardino County District Attorney Michael A. Ramos.

Bill Emmerson, R-Hemet, also said he's been endorsed by the California Association of Highway Patrolmen and Crime Victims United.

The veteran legislator is running against realtor/teacher Melissa Ruth O'Donnell, D-Highland, who has been endorsed by the California Labor Federation, the California Federation of Teachers, and the League of Humane Voters.

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Emmerson currently represents the 37th State Senate District. He is running for re-election in the newly drawn 23rd State Senate District, which includes Redlands, Loma Linda, Mentone, Yucaipa and Highland.

"Senator Bill Emmerson is one of our most effective legislators, a great friend to public safety and an outstanding representative for the Inland Region," Zellerbach said in remarks released by Emmerson's campaign.

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"Since his first election, Bill has always been the 'go-to-guy' for law enforcement and the District Attorney's Office to pass or oppose important legislation," Zellerbach said. "We're fortunate to have him in the Senate."

According to Emmerson's campaign, the California Association of Highway Patrolmen stated in its endorsement letter that Emmerson has "demonstrated a real concern for the safety of the public and the members of our Association."

"I'm honored to have earned the support of law enforcement officials and crime victim advocates," Emmerson said. "I will continue to push for policies that will provide law enforcement with the tools they need to fight crime and to keep our neighborhoods safe."

A pdf copy of the newly drawn 23rd State Senate District is attached to this report.

For more info about O'Donnell's campaign, visit melissaruthodonnell.com.

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