By Melanie Nathan, October 30, 2012.

While some believe that defacing the campaign lawn signs of the first openly lesbian Latina to run for California State Assembly is the way to oppose her bid for the seat, Susan Talamantes Eggman, a Stockton council member, running for California State Assembly, District 13, is above the fray.

While lawn signs have been hatefully spray-painted with the word “GAY” across the name, “Susan Talamantes Eggman,” in a clear display of anti-gay sentiment, opponents have much more to contend  with as their noxious hate does very little to disparage her record, one of great distinction.

Anti-equality extremists are aware that this year California’s LGBT legislative caucus could feasibly become the nation’s largest and Talamantes Eggman would be an imperative addition.

So while underhand tactics may tickle the fancy of a hate-filled few, it is unlikely to influence the voters who have come to see the council member as a resourceful and effective leader.

Since her successful grassroots campaign for the Stockton City Council five years ago, surprised many by forcing a runoff against her more established political opponent. Her hard work, strong leadership, and independence resonated with voters, who rejected a series of negative attacks and elected Susan. In 2010 voters reaffirmed their support for Eggman when she won reelection with over 75% of the vote.

According to her website: “Promoting the health and interests of San Joaquin Valley has been the guiding principle behind all of Susan’s policy decisions. From boosting job opportunities for all area residents to fighting to preserve and restore the Delta, Susan’s goal is always to make San Joaquin County thrive. Getting San Joaquin residents back to work is one of Susan’s top priorities. She fought to preserve small businesses by banning future big box stores because they hurt local small businesses and damage local economies. Susan also joined with community leaders to successfully lobby the Veterans Administration to build their new facility in San Joaquin County, which creates jobs and provides vital services for San Joaquin’s many veterans. As a U.S. Army veteran herself, Susan understands the sacrifices made by our young men and women who serve.”  

Talamantes Eggman has been endorsed by California Small Business Association: “We believe your commitment to the future of small business is deserving of support from our organization, and you will do a great job representing us effectively in the State Assembly,” CSBA President Betty Jo Toccoli wrote in a statement announcing the endorsement. The CSBA represents more than 203,000 small business owners statewide; its mission is to stimulate the creation of jobs and the health of the economy in California.

Also, California NOW endorsed Eggman for Assembly:  “With the state budget cuts disproportionally affecting women and children, there has never been a more important time to ensure the Legislature is filled with advocates for women’s voices as well as communities that have been largely ignored. Susan clearly understands that challenge and our organization is confident that she will work to move our state towards a more level playing field.

Victory Fund’s Tiffany Muller, Vice President of Political Operations notes: “Susan Talamantes Eggman will be an outstanding addition to the California Assembly, as it’s first out Latina.  Vandals have defaced Susan’s signs, and she faces opposition from extremists who think openly LGBT people don’t belong in politics. That’s why we’re ramping up our efforts during this last week of the campaign to help send Susan to Sacramento – where she’ll fight for us.”

Support the Campaign at www.susaneggman.com/support.htm