KMPH Fox 26 Central San Joaquin Valley News Source in Fresno, California Entertainment, News, Sports and Weather | Lt. Governor Nominee Visits Valley
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By Nicole Garcia
Fresno – The Governor's pick for Lieutenant Governor came to the Central Valley, visiting with elected officials, and helping put food boxes together at the Community Food Bank, where students from Hoover High School were volunteering.
The 42–year–old says he can relate to Valley residents.
He is the son of a Mexican immigrant, and his family farms strawberries.
"I represent the Central Coast, but I'm a farmer. I understand what they're going through, water is obviously number one, jobs number two," said Maldonado.
But he says one of the biggest challenges to getting those things done in California is partisanship.
Maldonado has broken with Republican party lines before, supporting the Governor's push for a temporary tax increase to solve the budget crisis.
"We have hard, hard left, and we have hard, hard right, and I'm okay with that. But don't put that over what's good for the people of California. I think there's a hidden tax on Californians because of the gridlock. And once that comes to an end, we're on our way," said Maldonado.
If confirmed, Maldonado will only hold the position until next year.
Two Valley representatives plan to run for Lt. Governor in 2010 – Republican senator Jeff Denham from Merced, and Democratic senator Dean Florez of Shafter.
Both have raised doubts that Maldonado will win confirmation.
"Those two gentlemen are fine senators, I serve with them. But obviously, I'm excited Governor Schwarzenegger has nominated me to be the Lt. Governor, and I look forward to working with him closely," said Maldonado.
According to the state constitution, Maldonado cannot take office until his nomination is approved by both legislative houses, or until 90 days pass with no legislative action.
If he's confirmed, Maldonado will be the first Latino Republican in 130 years to hold a statewide office in California.
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