Local News in Brief : Newport Beach : Ferguson Rejects Hart Bid to Limit Spending

Assemblyman Gil Ferguson (R-Newport Beach) said Wednesday that he would not agree to a $150,000 spending limit for his reelection bid as suggested by his Republican challenger, Newport Beach Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn R. Hart.

Hart, in a letter to Ferguson dated Tuesday, suggested that the two candidates limit their spending as a way of preserving money for Project ‘90, a GOP effort to win five more seats in the Assembly, thereby gaining a majority and control of the legislative redistricting process that will occur after the 1990 census.

Hart has been criticized by Ferguson and other county Republican leaders for running against Ferguson, which they say will drain GOP money from Project ’90.

“My decision to run for the 70th Assembly District is based on the need for quality representation, not a desire to impede my party’s attempt for a Republican majority in Sacramento,” Hart said in the letter to Ferguson that was released to the press.

But Ferguson said he will spend “whatever is necessary” to retain his seat. He said he will have between $250,000 and $500,000 available for his race.

“It seems to me if she wants to play in the big leagues, she’s going to have to play by the rules of the game,” Ferguson said. “I would suggest that we both adhere strictly to the guidelines and laws of the state of California.”

Hart said she is challenging Ferguson because of his legislative record. She has said that she expects to spend about $125,000 on her campaign.