Kern County Supervisor Leticia Perez is facing a challenge from her own party.
Kimberly Salas, the district director for Asm. Jasmeet Bains (D–Bakersfield), launched her campaign for the 5th District seat on the board on Thursday.
The big picture: Salas has a long history working in politics, getting her start on the campaign for former Asm. Dean Florez (D–Shafter) in 2000.
- She went on to work for former State Sen. Michael Rubio (D–Bakersfield) until 2013.
- Salas spent the last decade out of politics, returning at the beginning of 2023 to work for Bains, who is in her first term in Sacramento.
- Bains has endorsed Salas in the race.
- Perez ran against Bains for the Assembly last year but was defeated by over 20 points.
- Perez is running for her fourth term in the board, where she has served since being elected in 2013.
What they’re saying: “This district has been neglected for too long,” Salas said. “Just walking and driving around the district, I see the need. Honestly, when I collected signatures for nomination, we went to the neighborhoods, and people were ready to sign because they wanted a change.”
