News Summary
Huntington Beach City Council member Gracey Van Der Mark has announced her candidacy for the California Assembly’s 72nd District seat. With the current Assemblymember stepping down, Van Der Mark aims to address key local issues such as public safety, homelessness, and parental rights while collaborating across the political spectrum. Known for her polarizing decisions on the City Council, she has garnered both support and criticism. The upcoming elections in 2026 promise to be a competitive race, with substantial voter engagement anticipated.
Exciting News for Huntington Beach: Gracey Van Der Mark Sets Her Sights on Assembly Seat!
Residents of Huntington Beach, gather around because there’s a new buzz in the city! Gracey Van Der Mark, the current city council member and former mayor, has officially announced her intent to run for a coveted seat in the California Assembly. This bid is for the 72nd District, with plans set for the elections in 2026. Talk about planning ahead!
What’s the Buzz About?
So, what’s spurring Van Der Mark’s decision? The current Assemblymember, Diane Dixon, is stepping down to pursue a spot on the Orange County Board of Supervisors. This opens the door for Van Der Mark, who has been a familiar face in local politics. During her time on the council, she has tackled several hot-button issues, proposing measures that some have loved and others have criticized.
Diving into Local Issues
Van Der Mark is promising to bring a touch of “common sense” to California politics, aiming her sights on pressing matters like public safety, how to deal with homelessness, ensuring parental rights, and tackling taxes. Her strategy appears to be all about collaboration, as she’s shown a readiness to join forces with folks from across the political spectrum in Sacramento to get things done. How refreshing!
Controversies and Challenges
A Local with Deep Roots
Van Der Mark is no stranger to Huntington Beach; she has called it home for 24 years, although her roots trace back to Maywood, California, where she grew up as the child of immigrant parents. This diverse background adds a unique perspective to her political views, especially as she emphasizes the need for relatability in outreach efforts to Latino communities.
A Competitive Race Ahead
The 72nd Assembly District includes a stretch from Seal Beach to Laguna Beach and even reaches inland to Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, and Laguna Woods. With 39.8% of registered voters identifying as Republicans, and 32.14% as Democrats, this race is definitely one to watch. There are also a significant number of voters, about 21.32%, with no party preference—representing a substantial portion of the electorate that candidates like Van Der Mark may want to engage.
Support and Scrutiny
On the support front, the campaign is already gaining traction with endorsements from notable figures, including former GOP Assembly leader Scott Baugh. But it’s not all smooth sailing; Van Der Mark has faced criticism, including allegations of antisemitism, racism, and homophobia due to her past comments and actions. This backlash has raised eyebrows and sparked heated debates among community members.
What Lies Ahead
With her term on the City Council coinciding with the upcoming Assembly candidacy in 2026, Van Der Mark has her work cut out for her. Critics worry her polarizing style may only deepen divisions in the community, while supporters believe her policies address essential concerns. Either way, it’s sure to be a fascinating political journey for Huntington Beach as they gear up to see what this spirited councilmember has to offer!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
California Lawmakers Remove Film Tax Credit Increase Provisions
U.S. Senate Revokes California’s Gasoline Car Ban
California Faces $12 Billion Budget Deficit Impacting State Workers
California Proposes 67% Cut to Journalism Funding
Huntington Beach Residents Decide on Library Measures
Gricelda Van Der Mark Resigns from Huntington Beach City Council
Huntington Beach Prepares for Special Election on Library Measures
Gracey Van Der Mark Announces Candidacy for Assembly District 72
California Faces $12 Billion Budget Deficit and Proposed Cuts
Orange County’s House Delegation Faces Legislative Hurdles
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Gracey Van Der Mark Named Mayor
- LAist: Huntington Beach Elections
- Orange County Register: New Mayor Announced
- Commercial Observer: Magnolia Tank Farm Approval
- Orange County Register: New Council Majority
- Wikipedia: Huntington Beach, California
- Google Search: Gracey Van Der Mark
- Google Scholar: Gracey Van Der Mark
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Huntington Beach
- Google News: Huntington Beach
