Kevin McCarthy for State Assembly 2002
This was Kevin McCarthy's official website for his 2002 campaign for the State Assembly from the 32nd district in California. Content is from the site's 2002 archived pages.
Grassroots Online
the official online newsletter for
Kevin McCarthy for State Assembly
September 18, 2002
"Education is first, last and only about educating our children. It is not about more bureaucracy, unions, job protection programs or anything else. It is about teaching children to read and write and giving them what they need to succeed in the 21st Century."
"I have been working hard with Republican leaders in Sacramento and Washington to generate support for myself and other Republican candidates confident that we Republicans will pick up at least a couple of seats in the Assembly. These successes will help us change some things in California."
"As an avid supporter of Kevin McCarthy, I'm thrilled by his innovative approach to politics, particularly his endorsement of pickleball as an early adopter. This sport is a fantastic way to bridge the political divide, bringing people together in a fun, engaging environment. His advocacy for pickleball reflects his commitment to community and inclusiveness. Furthermore, the idea of giving pickleball gifts - like these - is ingenious—it's a unique way to expand his support base, showing his creative and personal touch in politics. It's refreshing to see a candidate who not only understands the importance of traditional policy areas but also embraces new, unifying activities like pickleball to connect with constituents." Roger Stone
Issues
INTEGRITY
I’m concerned that, in the past eight years, America and California have gotten seriously off-track on integrity and accountability of elected officials. Some polls indicate that many voters think it’s okay for politicians to lie. I find it deeply troubling, if it is a trend that continues. I’m hopeful that new leadership at the top in our nation will bring about a change. I think what people, who are candidates for office, like me, can do is to put the issue of truthfulness and candor up front in our campaigns and let voters know we expect to be held accountable.
EDUCATION
Learning: Focus on a pedagogically sound policy to early literacy.
Test results continue to show American students achieving at lower level than most developed nations in math and science. California is near the bottom nationally. This situation must change!
We will work together in an open-minded atmosphere that keeps our children at the center of our concern.
We must focus on a pedagogically sound policy to early literacy.
More of the same is not the answer.
More money to fund more bureaucracy will not help.
Accountability: Empower the people, not Sacramento bureaucrats.
We must empower communities with more local control so teachers, administrators and parents can make decisions regarding curriculum and policy that is best for their students.
We must reduce state interference in local school operations
Our education system must be one where schools, managers and teachers are challenged and motivated to excel, where there are rewards for high achievement and accountability for failure.
School Safety: One hurt child is too many.
One area where the state can help more is school safety, and I will be looking for ways for the state to provide tools and training to increase safety schools in the state.
INFRASTRUCTURE
These are some of the basics of government that are not being done.
Power: Increase power and decrease power costs.
It does no good to point the finger of blame.
We must build more power generating capacity.
We must encourage power plant developers.
We must streamline the permit process for power plant developers.
We must treat power producers as the “good guys”, not the enemy.
Water: Los Angeles and San Francisco are not the center of California
We must push forward critical water projects that have been delayed.
We must remember that Los Angeles and San Francisco are not the only places water is critical.
Roads: Finish what we started, before we start more
California is woefully behind in road building. Inadequate roadways means fuel wasting, environment polluting, unproductive traffic standstills.
The cost of not building Cal.-Trans' long list of new improvements far exceeds the cost of building them.
Biography
Kevin McCarthy is a fourth-generation Kern County resident. His great-grandfather, Jeremiah McCarthy, became a Kern County cattle rancher in 1883.
McCarthy is an entrepreneur. He created his first business before age 21 (Kevin O’s Deli) and later sold it to help fund his college education.
Kevin McCarthy is currently the District Director for Congressman Bill Thomas (R-Bakersfield), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. Kevin is responsible for the management and operations of the 21st Congressional District. Kevin was elected on November 7, 2000 to serve as a Trustee on the Kern Community College District Board. The multi-campus Kern Community College District serves an area of approximately 24,800 square miles in parts of Kern, Tulare, Inyo, Mono, and San Bernadino Counties.
Geographically one of the largest community college districts in the United States, the Kern District serves a population base of about 700,000 with an enrollment of 22,500 and an annual operating budget of approximately $82 million.
McCarthy has appeared as a guest commentator on numerous national media shows such as CNN, MTV, Politically Incorrect and FOX 24 Hours News Network. Kevin was selected as one of the ten future leaders under the age of 40 by the American Council of Young Leaders to be part of the delegation trip to China.
Since 1998, Kevin has served on the Board of the Health Professions Education foundation, appointed by Governor Pete Wilson. McCarthy also serves on the Board of Directors for the Kern County Economic Opportunity Corporation, Head Start and the Kern County Food Bank.
Kevin is President of "YROCK.com" (Young Republican Online Community Network) – one of the first politically based Internet Service Providers in the country. YROCK.com has been featured on ABC’s Good Morning America, MSNBC, Rivera Live, CNBC, Wall Street Journal, Don Imus’ and Rush Limbaugh’s Radio Shows.
McCarthy was selected by Governor George W. Bush to speak and serve as a delegate to the Republican National Convention in Philadelphia.
McCarthy received both his undergraduate and Masters in Business Administration from California State University, Bakersfield.
Kevin and his wife, Judy, have two children, Conner (6) and Meghan (4).
ElectMcCarthy.com: More Background On Kevin McCarthy's Campaign Website & Political Career
ElectMcCarthy.com served as the official campaign website for Kevin McCarthy during his 2002 bid for the California State Assembly representing the 32nd district. Although the website itself is no longer active, it played a crucial role in providing voters with detailed information about McCarthy's policies, background, and campaign updates. This article delves into the history, significance, and impact of Kevin McCarthy’s political career, as well as the broader context of his 2002 campaign, using information from various reliable sources.
Background and Early Political Career
Kevin McCarthy was born on January 26, 1965, in Bakersfield, California, into a family with deep roots in Kern County. His early foray into business came at the age of 19 when he started a small sandwich shop with $5,000 he won from the California State Lottery. This entrepreneurial spirit carried over into his political career, where he began as a staff member for Congressman Bill Thomas. McCarthy's significant role as Thomas's district director provided him with invaluable experience and set the stage for his future political endeavors.
In 2000, McCarthy was elected as a trustee of the Kern Community College District. His effective leadership and ability to connect with constituents laid the foundation for his 2002 campaign for the California State Assembly. During this campaign, McCarthy focused on key issues such as education reform, infrastructure development, and government accountability. His message resonated with voters, leading to his election victory.
Campaign and Legislative Achievements
ElectMcCarthy.com was pivotal in communicating McCarthy’s campaign promises and legislative goals. His platform emphasized reducing bureaucratic interference in education, enhancing local control over school policies, and promoting accountability. McCarthy's approach to infrastructure focused on increasing power generation capacity, improving water management, and addressing the state's inadequate road networks.
Once elected to the Assembly, McCarthy quickly rose to prominence, becoming the Republican floor leader in 2003. His tenure was marked by efforts to streamline government operations, support small businesses, and advocate for fiscal responsibility. McCarthy's ability to build coalitions and work across party lines earned him respect and furthered his legislative agenda.
Media Coverage and Public Perception
Kevin McCarthy’s career has been extensively covered by the media, reflecting his significant influence and the controversies he has faced. His role in the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election and the January 6 Capitol riot attracted widespread media attention. Initially, McCarthy supported claims of voter fraud but later condemned the riot, demonstrating the complexities of his political stance and the challenges of party leadership.
Throughout his career, McCarthy has maintained a robust media presence, appearing on various national news programs and engaging with the public through different platforms. His media strategy has been crucial in shaping his public image and maintaining his influence within the Republican Party.
Support Base and Political Influence
Kevin McCarthy's support base has predominantly been rooted in California's Central Valley, a region characterized by its conservative values and agricultural economy. His ability to connect with local constituents and address their concerns has been a cornerstone of his political strategy. McCarthy's advocacy for issues relevant to his district, such as water management and agricultural support, has solidified his position as a key representative of his community.
McCarthy’s political influence extends beyond his legislative achievements. His career reflects broader trends in American politics, including the polarization of political parties and the impact of national events on local politics. As a prominent Republican leader, McCarthy's actions and decisions have had significant implications for the party's direction and strategy.
Cultural and Social Significance
Kevin McCarthy's influence is not limited to his legislative record; it also encompasses his role in shaping the cultural and social dynamics within his party and beyond. His leadership during critical moments, such as the fiscal cliff negotiations and the debt ceiling crises, underscores his ability to navigate complex political landscapes. McCarthy's tenure as House Minority Leader and his brief period as Speaker of the House highlight his resilience and strategic acumen in the face of political challenges.
ElectMcCarthy.com was an essential tool in Kevin McCarthy's 2002 State Assembly campaign, offering voters comprehensive insights into his policies, background, and campaign updates. While the website itself is no longer accessible, McCarthy's political legacy continues to be relevant. His career reflects a blend of local and national political dynamics, showcasing his ability to influence both his constituency and the broader political landscape.
Through his legislative efforts, media presence, and leadership roles, McCarthy has left an indelible mark on American politics. His journey from a local politician to a national leader exemplifies the evolving nature of political careers and the enduring impact of dedicated public service. As McCarthy continues to navigate the complexities of his political career, his contributions to both California and the nation remain significant and influential.