While election day is still 15 months away, the race for one of the most powerful and least supervised political positions in America is already heating up, with three Board of Supervisors candidates collectively holding over $2 million in funds.
Leading the fundraising charge is former Santa Monica Mayor and current State Assemblymember Richard Bloom, who has raised $501,575 and holds $479,400 in cash on hand.
He is trailed by West Hollywood Mayor Lindsey Horvath, who has raised $275,175 and holds $262,188 cash on hand, and LA City Controller Ron Galperin, who has raised $255,841 and holds $236,597 cash on hand.
All three candidates are vying for the 3rd District seat currently held by Sheila Kuehl, who was elected in 2014 and has indicated she will not be running for a third term. This Board of Supervisor position represents a population of almost 2 million residents, which is larger than 14 states and Washington DC.
Bloom was the first candidate to toss his hat into the ring back in January and began fundraising in March. He currently holds a $200,000 cash advantage over his nearest competitor.
“I’m glad to be leading the race for Supervisor, but my focus remains on delivering results for our communities,” said Bloom. “The strong fundraising support I’ve received reflects my years of work solving problems and fighting for progressive legislation, and I’m grateful for the vote of confidence from so many.”
Horvath and Galperin have both been fundraising for a shorter time window, announcing their candidacies and beginning collecting money in April and May respectively.
Horvath, who has gained a coveted endorsement and $1,500 contribution from current Sup. Sheila Kuehl, said she is not put off by the initial fundraising results.
“My opponent from the Assembly transferred 75 percent of his money from Sacramento special interests to jump start his campaign, but in terms of people who have donated specifically to and for the race for Los Angeles County Supervisor, I have raised the most,” said Horvath.
All candidates are capped at $1.5 million in campaign spending and Bloom’s competitors still have a year and a half to raise funds, meaning the race and its coffers are still anyone’s game.
“I am proud that my campaign raised over $275,000 in just a matter of weeks,” said Horvath. “I am confident that we have the strongest grassroots coalition of any candidate in this race, and we will continue to grow our team to earn the resources and support we need to win.”
Micahel Soneff, a spokesperson for Richard Bloom’s campaign, expressed confidence in Bloom’s capability to lead the race, pointing to his over two decades of experience in public office as a key advantage.
“Richard Bloom is leading the race for Supervisor in experience, accomplishments, endorsements, grassroots support and now, fundraising,” said Soneff. “We’re focused on winning this campaign and delivering results for LA County residents.”
Galperin currently trails Horvath’s fundraising by a little under $20,000.
“In 5 weeks Controller Galperin raised more money than other candidates who have been in this race for months," said Orrin Evans, a campaign spokesperson. "That's because county residents know Controller Galperin’s record of being the taxpayers watchdog, holding government accountable and leading reforms to ensure the safe neighborhoods, clean environment and quality of life that we all deserve.”
** This article was updated Aug. 10 to reflect a comment from Galperin's team received after deadline**
Clara@smdp.com
