Democrat wins Ventura County for first time in 70 years

Democrat Julia Brownley defeated Republican Tony Strickland in California’s 26th congressional district, making her the first Democrat to represent Ventura County in 70 years.

Brownley defeated Strickland by 52 percent to 48 in the final unofficial vote count, according to reports.

The California state assemblywoman succeeds longtime Rep. Elton Gallegly (R), who retired after redistricting would have left him with a difficult primary challenge from another veteran incumbent.

“I am so honored that the people of Ventura County have entrusted me to represent them in Congress,” Brownley said in a message posted to her campaign’s Facebook page. 

“I promise to fight for Ventura County to create jobs, expand the middle class, improve education and protect Social Security and Medicare. Representing Ventura County in Congress will be one of the greatest honors of my life,” she added.

According to media reports, Brownley was boosted by a local grassroots agency, the Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy, which had urged voters in her district to support Proposition 30, California Gov. Jerry Brown’s (D) proposition to raise sales taxes and income taxes on the wealthy. The proposition was approved.

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