California voters seeking a progressive voice in the State Assembly District 32 (AD-32) will find a strong advocate in Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone. Her established record, coupled with her dedication to key progressive values, positions her as the ideal candidate to represent the diverse constituents of AD-32 effectively. Dr. Cruz-Boone’s campaign emphasizes a commitment to progress and positive change for the district.
Meet Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone: A Progressive Champion for AD-32
Dr. Cruz-Boone brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to public service to her candidacy for State Assembly. Endorsed by prominent progressive organizations such as Planned Parenthood Advocates Mar Monte, Democratic Women of Kern, and the Bakersfield Elementary Teachers Association, she clearly stands as the progressive choice in this race.
Her electoral history demonstrates her ability to connect with and win over voters. Dr. Cruz-Boone secured a significant victory in her 2020 race for the Bakersfield City School District Board of Education, winning by a decisive 14-point margin. Her unopposed reelection in 2024 further underscores her strong standing within the community.
Dr. Cruz-Boone’s platform is built upon addressing critical issues facing AD-32 residents. Her top priorities include:
- Education and Special Education Services: Drawing on her extensive background in education, Dr. Cruz-Boone is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and ensuring robust special education services for all students.
- Water Access and Management: Recognizing the vital importance of water resources in California, she is committed to advocating for sustainable water management and equitable access for her constituents.
- Environmental Protections: Dr. Cruz-Boone champions environmental protections to safeguard the natural beauty and health of AD-32 and the broader California landscape.
- Community Safety: Prioritizing the well-being of her community, she will work towards comprehensive strategies to enhance community safety and security.
- Drug Prevention and Awareness: Addressing the challenges of drug abuse, Dr. Cruz-Boone is committed to promoting effective drug prevention and awareness programs.
Her governance and community leadership experience is substantial. For nearly two decades, Dr. Cruz-Boone has served as a lecturer and professor within the California State University system, shaping the minds of future generations. Simultaneously, she is currently serving her second term as a trustee on the Bakersfield City School District Board of Education, actively involved in local education policy. As a lifelong resident of Kern County and Bakersfield native, Dr. Cruz-Boone’s commitment to her community is deeply personal. Raised by a single mother, she attributes her success to Bakersfield’s public education system and is driven to ensure similar opportunities are available for all. Her policy focus centers on empowering teachers, students, and parents, and fostering inclusive and accessible classrooms.
Understanding the AD-32 Race
The primary election on February 25th features four candidates vying for the AD-32 seat: Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone (D), Stan Ellis (R), Holli Willibey (R), and William Brown, Jr (L). If no candidate secures a majority in the primary, the top two vote-getters will proceed to the general election on April 29th. This special election arose due to former Assemblymember Vince Fong’s election to Congress in June 2024.
As of January 2025, campaign finance records show:
- Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone (D): No campaign fundraising receipts filed.
- Stan Ellis (R): $39,000 raised, with pledges not to accept funding from police, fossil fuel, corporate PACs, or real estate interests.
- Holli Willibey (R): No campaign fundraising receipts filed.
- William Brown, Jr (L): No campaign fundraising receipts filed.
AD-32: A District in Focus
California’s 32nd Assembly District encompasses portions of Kern and Tulare Counties. While voter registration leans Republican (48% Republican, 25% Democrat, 18% No Party Preference), it’s crucial to remember that Democrats previously held this seat until 2020. The district’s demographics are diverse, with a population that is 25% Latino, 5% Asian, and 3% Black.
Recent election results indicate a Republican trend in AD-32, with the district voting for Donald Trump in 2024 by a significant 33-point margin and for Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 42 points. However, local elections and special elections often see different dynamics, and a strong progressive candidate like Dr. Cruz-Boone can resonate with voters across the political spectrum.
Why Progressive Voters Should Choose Dr. Cruz-Boone
For progressive voters in California’s AD-32, Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone represents a clear choice. She is a proven advocate for progressive values, with endorsements from respected organizations that champion these principles. Her focus on education, environmental protection, and community well-being aligns directly with progressive priorities.
While AD-32 has leaned Republican in recent presidential and gubernatorial elections, electing a progressive voice like Dr. Cruz-Boone to the State Assembly is vital. State assemblymembers play a crucial role in representing their districts and advocating for their constituents’ needs in Sacramento. By electing Dr. Cruz-Boone, AD-32 voters have the opportunity to ensure their voices are heard and that progressive values are represented in the California State Assembly.
Elect Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone to bring progressive leadership to AD-32.
