Warren Furutani won a clear victory over Carson City Councilman Mike Gipson in the 55th Assembly special election. Furutani received 49.24% of the total vote, just short of the 50% needed to win the seat out-right.
Instead, Furutani becomes the Democratic nominee and the likely winner in next year’s run-off election. He has minimal opposition against a Libertarian and Independent candidate. No Republican is running in the highly democratic district.
The Assembly District represents parts of West and North Long Beach, Lakewood and Carson.
Furutani was joined by numerous political and labor leaders at his campaign party. Those in attendance included LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Secretary of State Debra Bowen, State Controller John Chiang, Assemblymember Betty Karnette and numerous other local political figures.
Furutani also introduced Long Beach City Councilmember and 54th Assembly candidate Tonia Reyes-Uranga. He praised Reyes-Uranga and hinted at a possible endorsement for her in the 54th.
54th Assembly candidate and LB Councilmember Tonia Reyes-Uranga and Long Beach City College Trustee Roberto Uranga
Long Beach Democratic Leaders Sam Hall and James Johnson
Secretary of State Debra Bowen and Post Publisher Robert Garcia
Assembly candidate Warren Furutani and Democratic activist Sergio Carillo