The presidential campaign has received a lot of media attention in the last few weeks concerning the closeness of the race, however the congressional election for Ventura’s district is a toss-up as well. Congressional candidates Tony Strickland and Julia Brownley are in a tight bout for District 26’s congressional seat. With no incumbent, the seat is up for grabs.

Tony Strickland, the Republican candidate, is running for office on the platform of family values, local knowledge, improving education and generating jobs for the next generation of Ventura.

“I learned from my father, a Korean and Vietnam war veteran, to lead the community to be a better place for the next generation,” Strickland said.

He firmly reinforced the importance of Foothill students for the next generation.

“Foothill students will want a good job and opportunities, young students need to make sure we are making the right decisions,” Strickland said.

Strickland feels he has a deep connection to Foothill students and the community at large because he has grown up and spent his entire life living in Ventura.

“I grew up in Ventura County and have Ventura values. She [Brownley] voted to eliminate Healthy Families, release prisoners early to help the budget, and voted for the California High-Speed Rail, which does nothing for Ventura,” Strickland said. {sidebar id=62}
Strickland believes his relationship with Venturans makes him the best possible candidate for District 26.

“I’ve grown up in the community and understand every corner. If I’m not successful I’m fearful that Santa Monica will have two representatives and Ventura none,” Strickland said.

This campaign has come down to the wire. The district has been reallocated and both Republicans and Democrats alike are trekking the streets of Oxnard instead of Simi Valley to make their candidates a household name.