HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA – February 3, 2025
Organizations representing thousands of police officers have joined with Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes in supporting Tony Strickland’s candidacy in the 36th Senate District special election.
“Tony Strickland has proven himself as a leader who puts public safety first,” said Barnes. “I am proud to support Tony for Senate.”
In addition to Barnes, law enforcement groups backing Strickland include:
- Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs
- Huntington Beach Police Officers Association
- Newport Beach Police Officers Association
- Garden Grove Police Officers Association
- Westminster Police Officers Association
- California Coalition of Law Enforcement Associations
“Tony has proven that he stands for public safety, that’s why we are proud to stand with him. We know Tony Strickland will fight to protect Orange County communities,” said Juan Viramontes, president of the Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs.
“California needs Tony Strickland back in the State Senate. Tony Strickland has the experience and the ability to work with all – he will be effective starting day one,” said Mark Wershing, the president of the Huntington Beach Police Officers Association. “Tony will fight to make our state and local communities safer, solving huge state issues and working on our economy. We urge everyone to vote now, early or on Special Election Day February 25. Elect Tony Strickland our next State Senator.”
Crime and public safety are top concerns for voters, and the strong support from local and statewide police organizations is a major boost for Strickland’s campaign.
“I am honored to have the support of the men and women who, every day, put their lives on the line to keep us safe in our homes and in our neighborhoods,” said Strickland. “Government has no higher duty than ensuring the safety of its citizens.”
The 36th Senate District special election was triggered when the incumbent, Janet Nguyen, was elected to the Orange County Board of Supervisors.
The special election primary is scheduled for February 25, 2025. If no candidate wins more than 50% of the vote, there will be an April 29 run-off between the top two vote-getters.
The 36th Senate District includes the communities of Cerritos, Artesia, Hawaiian Gardens, La Palma, Buena Park, Cypress, Stanton, Los Alamitos, Garden Grove, Westminster, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and San Clemente.
Tony Strickland was elected to the Huntington Beach City Council in 2022, leading a four-candidate slate that swept the council elections. As mayor and councilman, he has led the fight for public safety and quality of life, and against Governor Gavin Newsom’s efforts to usurp local control. He served in the state Assembly from 1998 to 2004, and in the state Senate from 2008 to 2012.
