Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone stands out as the progressive choice for Assembly District 32 (AD-32), bringing a proven track record and policy positions that prioritize the needs of this diverse district. Her commitment to progress and effective governance makes her the ideal candidate to represent AD-32.
Who is Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone?
Dr. Cruz-Boone is not just a candidate; she is a dedicated educator and community leader with deep roots in Bakersfield and Kern County. Her professional and personal experiences uniquely qualify her to advocate for the constituents of AD-32 in the California State Assembly.
Progressive Endorsements
Dr. Cruz-Boone’s progressive values are recognized and supported by leading organizations. She is endorsed by groups such as Planned Parenthood Advocates Mar Monte, Democratic Women of Kern, and the Bakersfield Elementary Teachers Association, highlighting her commitment to key progressive issues.
Electoral History
Her dedication to public service is evident in her electoral success. Dr. Cruz-Boone has a history of winning elections, most notably her victory in the 2020 race for Bakersfield City School District Board of Education, where she won by a significant 14-point margin. She was re-elected in 2024, further demonstrating community confidence in her leadership.
Top Issues
Dr. Cruz-Boone’s campaign is centered around critical issues that matter most to the residents of AD-32. Her top priorities include:
- Education and Special Education Services: Ensuring quality education for all students, with a focus on inclusive special education programs.
- Water Access and Management: Addressing the crucial need for sustainable water solutions in the region.
- Environmental Protections: Advocating for policies that protect the environment and promote sustainability.
- Community Safety: Working towards safer communities through comprehensive and effective strategies.
- Drug Prevention and Awareness: Combating drug abuse through prevention programs and increased awareness.
Governance and Community Leadership Experience
For nearly two decades, Dr. Cruz-Boone has served as a lecturer and professor within the California State University system, demonstrating her expertise in education and policy. Currently serving her second term as a trustee of the Bakersfield City School District Board of Education, she is actively involved in shaping local education policy. Raised by a single mother and a product of Bakersfield’s public education system, Dr. Cruz-Boone is deeply committed to giving back to her community by championing education policies that prioritize teachers, students, and parents, and enhance classroom accessibility for all learners.
Other Background
A lifelong resident of Kern County and hailing from Bakersfield, Dr. Cruz-Boone has a profound understanding of the district’s unique needs and challenges.
Understanding the AD-32 Race
The race for AD-32 is a critical one, with the primary election set for February 25th.
Primary Election Details
Four candidates are vying for the AD-32 seat in the primary election: Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone (D), Stan Ellis (R), Holli Willibey (R), and William Brown, Jr (L). If no candidate secures a majority of votes, the top two vote-getters will proceed to the general election on April 29th. This seat became vacant after former Assemblymember Vince Fong was elected to Congress in June 2024.
The Candidates
Dr. Cruz-Boone is the sole Democratic candidate in the race, presenting a clear progressive alternative to the Republican and Libertarian candidates. Her opponents include two Republicans, Stan Ellis and Holli Willibey, and a Libertarian, William Brown, Jr.
Fundraising and Pledges
As of January 2025, Dr. Cruz-Boone’s campaign finance filings are not yet available. In contrast, Republican candidate Stan Ellis has reported raising $39,000 and has pledged not to accept funding from police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, or real estate interests. The other candidates, Holli Willibey and William Brown, Jr., have not yet filed campaign fundraising receipts.
The 32nd Assembly District: A Political Landscape
California’s 32nd Assembly District encompasses parts of both Kern and Tulare Counties, presenting a diverse political and demographic landscape.
District Composition
AD-32 includes portions of Kern and Tulare Counties, reflecting a mix of urban and rural communities within California’s Central Valley.
Voter Registration and Political Leaning
The district’s voter registration leans Republican, with 48% registered Republicans, 25% Democrats, and 18% No Party Preference. Historically, Democrats held this seat until 2020, when Republicans flipped it red.
District Demographics
AD-32 is a diverse district with a significant Latino population (25%), along with 5% Asian and 3% Black residents, highlighting the need for representation that understands and reflects this diversity.
Recent Election Results
Recent election results indicate a Republican trend in AD-32. In 2024, AD-32 voters favored Donald Trump for president by a substantial 33-point margin, and in 2022, voted for Brian Dahle for governor by 42 points. Despite this Republican leaning, Dr. Cruz-Boone’s strong local ties and progressive platform offer a compelling choice for voters seeking balanced representation.
Why the State Assembly Position Matters
State Assemblymembers play a crucial role in representing their constituents’ needs at the California State Capitol.
Role of a State Assemblymember
Assemblymembers are responsible for advocating for their district, creating and debating legislation, and voting on policies that directly impact their communities. They serve as a vital link between local concerns and state-level governance.
About the California State Assembly
The California State Assembly consists of 80 districts, each representing approximately 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected for two-year terms, with all seats up for election every two years. Currently, Democrats hold a supermajority in the Assembly with 59 seats, while Republicans hold 19, and one seat is vacant. Electing Dr. Cruz-Boone would strengthen the progressive voice in the State Assembly and ensure AD-32 is effectively represented.
Elect Dr. Chris Cruz-Boone to bring a progressive voice and dedicated leadership to the 32nd Assembly District. Her experience, vision, and commitment to the community make her the right choice to move AD-32 forward. Vote for Dr. Cruz-Boone in the upcoming election and support progress for AD-32.
