Deukmejian Lobbies Legislators for Lungren

Gov. George Deukmejian used the radio waves Saturday to lobby the Legislature for confirmation of his state treasurer nominee, Republican Rep. Daniel E. Lungren of Long Beach.

“Dan Lungren has represented the Long Beach area in the House of Representatives for nearly 10 years,” Deukmejian said. “During that time he has earned one of the best records in the Congress for fiscal responsibility.

“He has consistently opposed wasteful spending, and he has been a strong defender of the interests of California taxpayers. These are the qualities we need in a state treasurer.”

To Succeed Unruh

Deukmejian, the lone Republican holding a statewide office in California, named Lungren on Wednesday to succeed Jesse Unruh, who died of cancer Aug. 4.

Lungren edged out Senate Republican leader Ken Maddy of Fresno for nomination to the $72,500-a-year post. Although many members of the Legislature confess that they know little about Lungren, a few liberal Democrats have already said they will oppose his confirmation.

The Legislature, which reconvenes Jan. 4, has 90 days in which to deny Lungren the job. If it fails to act, he becomes treasurer automatically.

Lungren said he plans to spend the weeks ahead contacting lawmakers in the hope of smoothing his confirmation hearings.

With his radio address Saturday, Deukmejian also got an early start on soothing Democrats in the hope of winning their votes for the appointment. In a conciliatory move, the governor referred to Democrat Unruh as “a good friend and a fine public servant” and said “he is sorely missed.”

Cites Qualifications

“California needs a state treasurer of the utmost integrity and character,” Deukmejian said. “We need a treasurer who is fiscally responsible and totally dedicated to maintaining our good credit rating. We need a treasurer with stature and experience--one who has been tested in the challenging arenas of government and politics.

“Dan Lungren fits this bill to a ‘T.’ I respectfully request the state Legislature to confirm him as California’s state treasurer.”

Lungren, a longtime friend of Deukmejian, has represented the 42nd Congressional District that stretches from prosperous Palos Verdes in southern Los Angeles County to conservative Orange County.