Queer Fresno

Gavin Newsom, mayor of San Francisco, has been a rising star in state politics since his election to the mayor’s office in San Francisco in 2003. The charismatic and energetic mayor has captured both state-wide and national attention by pushing the political envelop with multiple policy initiatives. He has been a leader in the development of green technologies in San Francisco, as well as, pushing for a city-wide health initiative that would cover all city residents. 

He gained prominent recognition when he  allowed gays and lesbians to marry in front of city hall, purposely defying state and federal law, which do not recognize such unions.  Mayor Newsom has been a fierce advocate for the advancement of LGBT rights and has supported our community in our national fight to gain equal rights.

Last year he announced his candidacy for governor, in which I was more than enthused to hear. However, I was deeply saddened when he dropped out of the race  earlier this year due to low standings in state-wide polls and sluggish fundraising. He was eclipsed by former governor, and current Attorney General, Jerry Brown, who has led Newsom in both fundraising and in state-wide polls.

However, just recently Newsom announced that he would seek the states number two slot, the Lt. Governors office, which he is already proclaimed the frontrunner. He is challenging  Los Angeles City Councilwoman Janice Hahn. State Senator Dean Florez, a Kern County Democrat was the first to announce his candidacy for the office but recently dropped out due to the entrance of Newsom into the race.

The Lt. Governors office is often overlooked in state politics and rarely plays a pivotal role in policy decisions and state-wide initiatives. On paper the Lt. Governor’s office holds limited authority to act in the governors absence. Among the duties are charing the Economic Development Commission, serving on other panels such as the University of California Board of Regents, and the largely ceremonial and seldom exercised role of presiding over the state senate. Based on recent history the states second post has rarely played as a launching pad for political aspirants. The office has only served as a launching pad to two former governors, Goodwin J. Knight and Gray Davis.

If Newsom is elected as Lt. Governor he will put a fresh new face on the office and add a unique perspective on state politics that will allow him to push initiatives at the state level without being trapped in the political squabbling that often prohibits politicians from being effective in office. He will continue the progressive policies that have made San Francisco a national leader in green technology, health care, homeless policies, and of course equal rights.

We need someone who is creative, innovative and someone who isnt afraid to cross political boundaries or be politically incorrect. I am happy to support Gavin Newsom for Lt. Governor and in all his future endeavors. I really hope that this gives him the recognition that he needs to advance to higher office. I think that he can be an effective leader if he utilizes his position correctly.