By Jessyka Heredia and Miriam Raftery
March 6, 2024 (San Diego’s East County) -- La Mesa Councilman Colin Parent and Lemon Grove Mayor Racquel Vasquez are maintaining their first and and second place positions in the primary race for the 79th Assembly district seat. If their leads hold, the two East County elected official will run-off in the November general election, leaving their current council and mayoral positions to be filled in the November election, since both have terms of office ending after this year.
As of 11:30 p.m. on Election night, Parent has 41.01%, Vasquez 31.53% and Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins, County Office of Education’s community engagement specialist and adjunct professor at SDSU trails close behind with 27.43%.
As last night’s Lemon Grove City Council meeting adjourned, ECM’s reporter approached the dais to let Vasquez know she was number two in the early voting numbers so far and asked if she would like to give a statement.
Vasquez remarked, “It is a process to count the votes, and I’m honored to have the support of many voters. The best part about running for office is hearing what the concerns are within the district and then taking that information in, also hearing how we can work together to improve our district. While there are so many more votes to be counted, I’m just honored for this opportunity to run and to serve not only the city of Lemon Grove, but perhaps an opportunity to serve the entire 79th State Assembly District.”
Vasquez also released a written statement before the City Council meeting that stated, “Transitioning from my Mayor of Lemon Grove role to pursuing the California State Assembly seat has been a remarkable journey. I’m thankful for this opportunity and excited to embark on this journey with those who live, work and recreate in the 79th Assembly District. I eagerly anticipate sharing more about my plans to bolster our economy, champion fair wages, and invest in vital community resources.”
Parent posted this statement on Facebook shortly after the early results showed in in the lead.
“I want to thank everyone in the 79th district for their support. I am profoundly grateful to every voter, volunteer, and supporter who dedicated their time, energy, and resources to our campaign. Tonight’s election results are a testament to the collective voice of our community that is calling for real change.”
He added, “The race is far from over, and I am committed to continue my conversations with voters around the district and to find solutions for our communities biggest challenges. With their continued support, I know we can and we will!”
All three candidates in this race are Democrats.
The next election results will be released by the Registrar of Voters on March 7th.