Candidates Face Off in California’s 38th Assembly District Race
As the Nov. 5 general election approaches, the race for California’s 38th Assembly District is heating up, with two candidates vying for the chance to represent western Ventura County. The district encompasses a diverse range of communities, including Ojai, Ventura, Oxnard, Santa Paula, Fillmore, and parts of Camarillo.
Incumbent Steve Bennett, a seasoned politician with a long history of public service, is running for re-election against challenger Deborah “Deb” Baber, a retired book publishing executive and newcomer to the political arena. Bennett has served as a state assembly member since 2020 and previously spent two decades on the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. Baber, on the other hand, has made her mark on the local political scene through her involvement with the Ventura County Republican Party.
Deborah ‘Deb’ Baber: A Fresh Perspective
At 68 years old and residing in Port Hueneme, Baber is passionate about reducing government size and increasing voter participation. She believes that government often oversteps its boundaries and takes too much from taxpayers. Her campaign emphasizes the need for transparency and accessibility in government processes.
Baber’s top priority is to empower voters by introducing legislation that would allow them to have more control over key issues. Her proposed "Poison Pill Bill" aims to return price controls to voters, while her "Floodlights Statute" seeks to make government salaries and expenses more transparent. Additionally, she advocates for simplifying ballot measures to ensure they are understandable to all voters.
Steve Bennett: Experience and Accountability
Bennett, 73, brings a wealth of experience to the table. With degrees in economics and education, he has dedicated his career to addressing pressing issues facing California, particularly in the realms of climate change, housing, and water management. His approach focuses on accountability and effective implementation of policies.
Bennett’s campaign highlights the importance of tackling California’s ongoing crises, including wildfires and housing shortages. He aims to secure more funding for wildfire prevention and improve oversight of groundwater agencies to combat water over-drafting. His strategy involves drawing on successful solutions from other regions and rallying support from stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
The Road Ahead
As the election date draws near, both candidates are ramping up their campaigns, reaching out to voters to share their visions for the future of the 38th Assembly District. With starkly different approaches to governance, voters will have a clear choice on Nov. 5.
For more in-depth coverage of the election and to learn more about the candidates, visit vcstar.com/news/elections.
Cheri Carlson, who covers the environment and county government for the Ventura County Star, encourages community engagement and informed voting. Reach her at [email protected] or 805-437-0260.
