Yesterday, the Jerry McNerney campaign held a press conference where two well known Republicans, both of whom had challenged the Abramoff'd incumbent, Richard Pombo, for the Republican nomination, announced their support for the Democratic candidate.
From the press release,
"You know, I never really thought I'd be doing this. I've been a Republican for 57 years. My family have been Republicans for four generations," said McCloskey. "But I've concluded two things: Jerry McNerney is an honest man; Richard Pombo is not. I'm confident that Jerry McNerney is an honorable man who will vote his conscience."
Pete McCloskey is a former Republican Congressman.
"I have been a Republican all of my life, but Richard Pombo and his leadership have lost touch with us, and it's time for the corruption to end," said Benigno. "I believe that this particular venue today -- Mr. McCloskey and I being here -- sends out a clear message to the people. I think the message is: we need change. We need change and I think the people are ready for it."
Tom Benigno is a farmer who came in second behind Pombo in the primary.