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.
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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.”
