Tom Torlakson Endorses State Senator Mark DeSaulnier for Congress

SACRAMENTO--Assemblymember Tom Torlakson, D-Antioch, said today he will continue his campaign for state schools chief and not run for a congressional seat currently held by Rep. Ellen Tauscher.

Tauscher, D-Walnut Creek will be leaving her 10th congressional district seat after accepting a post in the Obama administration, as undersecretary of state for arms control and international security with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

In making the announcement, Torlakson, who has held elective office in Contra Costa County for 30 years, said he would endorse Senator Mark DeSaulnier, D-Concord, to succeed Tauscher.

"I want to thank the many individuals who have reached out to me and expressed their support since Congresswoman Tauscher's appointment appeared in the media," said Tom Torlakson, who started his career as a school teacher and continues to teach today. "However, I believe that our education system is at a pivotal point in California. Our schools, which once were ranked among the nation's best, are now ranked among the lowest. As a long time teacher, I believe I have a unique opportunity to turn our schools around and better prepare our children for the challenges they will face once they enter the workforce."

"The East Bay has been fortunate to have been served by Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher the past 12 years, and I wish her well as she prepares for this important new position with the Obama Administration," said Torlakson. "Mark DeSaulnier is the best person to continue her tradition of strong and effective leadership in Congress. He has the experience, intelligence, and character necessary to represent the residents of the district. I am pleased to endorse him and offer my full support for his upcoming campaign."

Torlakson will be hosting a formal kickoff lunch for his State Superintendent of Public Instruction campaign on Friday, April 3, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Concord.

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