McClintock Endorsed by Former Rivals

Republican Assembly candidate Tom McClintock on Monday announced that all five of his opponents in last week’s GOP primary have endorsed him as the party’s nominee for the seat being vacated by Assemblywoman Paula Boland (R-Granada Hills).

“All of the candidates were gracious to come together like this,” said Tony Strickland, McClintock’s campaign manager.

McClintock, who won the Republican primary handily, will face Democrat Jon M. Lauritzen in the November general election.

Three of the former opponents are taking active roles in McClintock’s bid: Ross Hopkins, a Canoga Park businessman, will become co-chairman of McClintock’s campaign in the San Fernando Valley, Peggy Freeman of Castaic will be co-chairwoman of his Santa Clarita campaign, and Simi Valley insurance agent Bob Larkin will be co-chairman of his Ventura County campaign, Strickland said.

Steve Frank, a Simi Valley government affairs consultant, and retired Deputy Robert C. Hamlin of Castaic have also endorsed McClintock’s candidacy, Strickland said.

McClintock also named Larkin as his appointee to the Ventura County Republican Central Committee. Larkin gave up his chairmanship and his seat on the committee to run in the 38th Assembly District, which includes Simi Valley, Fillmore and portions of the Conejo, San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys.

Larkin said he was pleased to remain on the central committee, which will rotate membership within the next month.

“I’m going to do my best to get him elected,” Larkin said of his former political foe.

“I’m going to elect a Republican. I’ve never swerved from that position.”