President Barack Obama endorsed the Democratic candidate vying to take over California’s 25th Congressional District, which was left open following the resignation of former Democratic Rep. Katie Hill.
Christy Smith, a Democratic state assemblywoman, is running against Republican Mike Garcia, a former Navy fighter pilot, in a special election that is scheduled for next Tuesday. Obama’s endorsement was announced a week before the election is set to take place.
“Now, more than ever, we need pragmatic, experienced and effective leaders in Washington,” Obama explained. “I’m proud to endorse Christy Smith in the May 12 special election for Congress because she has proven herself as a leader in her community. Let’s help Christy protect this seat.”
“I am incredibly honored to receive President Barack Obama’s endorsement,” Smith reacted. “My campaign has drawn inspiration from the President’s run for the White House as I strive to uplift families in the 25th District, fighting for greater access to affordable healthcare and to ensure the needs of everyday families come first. I’m tremendously grateful for his support.”
Hill, who won her race by 7 points, left Congress in November after admitting to a “throuple” relationship between her, her husband, and an aide in her victorious 2018 campaign. She was also accused of having an affair with a male congressional aide, which she has denied, and was facing a House Ethics Committee investigation.
Even after vacating her seat, Hill is trying to help Smith take over the district. The former congresswoman’s PAC, Her Time, spent $200,000 on an ad to promote Smith’s candidacy.
Smith issued an apology to Garcia last week after she mocked his military background during an online day action with her supporters.
