Thursday, Second District Republican Congressional candidate Jeff Coleman released a statement praising Republican challenger Mike Garcia’s win in this week’s special election in California’s 25th Congressional District.
“I want to offer my congratulations to Congressman-Elect Mike Garcia’s big win in California last night,” Coleman said. “Despite the Democrats’ attempt to stack the vote in their favor with last-minute changes to polling places and vote-by-mail rules, commonsense conservatism prevailed. Americans are fed up with the lies and deceit coming from the Democratic Party, and this November, we will make our collective voice heard. I am looking forward to serving with Congressman-Elect Garcia in the next Congress.”
Mike Garcia is a former Navy pilot and newcomer to Republican electoral politics. Garcia defeated his Democratic opponent, State Assemblywoman Christy Smith (D) in a special election to fill a House seat in Southern California.
“I’d like to give a special thanks to everyone who supported our effort,” said Garcia on social media. “I’m honored to serve on behalf of the people of #CA25. Whether you voted for me or not, I promise to be an independent voice on your behalf in Washington.
This is the first time the Republican Party has flipped a Democratic held seat in California since 1998. Due to coronavirus concerns that election consisted primarily by mail.
The seat became vacant when incumbent Congresswoman Katie Hill (D) admitted to an affair with a campaign staff member. The two candidates will meet again in November, when both are planning to run for a full term.
Garcia was endorsed by President Donald J. Trump (R).
“@MikeGarcia2020 will be a tremendous fighter for the U.S. and the State of California,” Pres. Trump said. “An Annapolis graduate, he served our Country as a highly decorated Navy Fighter Pilot and will be a great Congressman (#CA25). Loves our Military, and Vets…”
Jeff Coleman is a Dothan businessman who heads Coleman Worldwide Moving. He is a former Chairman of the Business Council of Alabama. Coleman is running in the Republican primary runoff against former State Representative Barry Moore of Enterprise. The winner of the Republican primary runoff will face Democrat Phyliss Harvey-Hall in the November election.
Incumbent Congressman Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, is not seeking re-election.
