By Jim Shilander and Andrea Papagianis
Dana Point City Councilman Bill Brough has announced a bid for the California State Assembly seat now occupied by his former boss, Diane Harkey.
Brough previously had worked as Harkey’s Chief of Staff and is in his first term as a councilman in Dana Point.
The 73rd Assembly District, which Harkey currently represents, includes Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and four other cities in South Orange County, along with unincorporated areas of Ladera Ranch and Coto de Caza. Harkey is term-limited and cannot run again. Earlier this month, she announced plans to run for a seat on the state Board of Equalization in 2014.
“Many people from across California have encouraged me to run for State Assembly in 2014,” Brough said in a release. “I’ve decided to run because I am absolutely committed to delivering to the residents of California the same type of effective, responsible and transparent government I’ve successfully delivered in Dana Point for years.”
Brough served in the Army from 1986-1991 and is a graduate of the University of Connecticut. In addition to serving on Harkey’s staff, Brough was an aide to former U.S. Congressman Christopher Cox, and served as a presidential appointee during the Bush administration.
“I have a long record of service in the U.S. Army, Washington, and on city council,” Brough said. “I hope to continue my public service in Sacramento. I will fight to reform the overly burdensome taxation and regulation that is driving many from our state and bring a fiscal conservative philosophy to Sacramento. I will be a voice for business in the Capitol.”
Brough indicated he would continue to serve on the city council during the campaign as it will not change his ability to serve the people of Dana Point..
“The reality is that I need to show my commitment early to win the seat by raising money and collecting endorsements now.”
One other local politician, Rancho Santa Margarita City Councilman Jesse Petrilla, has declared his candidacy for the seat.
Both men are Republicans. The primary election is scheduled for June 3, 2014.
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