According to Public Policy Polling, back in October, they chose California 52 - Rep Brian Bilbray (R) as one of the 12 most likely pick-ups for house dems in 2012.
-In California’s 52nd Congressional District, only 42% of voters would like to reelect Brian
Bilbray, while 51% would prefer someone else. Just 39% have a favorable opinion of the
Republicans in Congress, with 53% holding a negative one.
Recent polling since then has only confirmed this - and it is progressive, grass-roots candidate Lori Saldana that is in the lead!!! (It must also be said that the new district 52 contains much of Lori's old Assembly district, where she served a full three terms very successfully.)
(If you're here for the beer dip below the orange slurp)
I have diaried about Lori here and here. We have our first open primaries here in June, so the top two will run off in November. Not only is Lori polling in the top two, but she is also beating Bilbray in the general!
Her main Democratic opponent is Scott Peters, San Diego's own "mini-Mitt". He's Mr. 1% -- from his $250M+ net worth, to his "vulture capitalist" family business, Cameron Holdings. Like Mitt, Scott's funds are mainly large and few, and he has the support of much of San Diego's establishment -- entrenched politicians, developers, Chamber of Commerce... Check this diary for more: "Mini-Mitt” Trying to Beat a REAL Progressive in San Diego! I'll have more diaries to follow describing Scott Peters in further detail.
Lori, on the other hand, has been endorsed by Emily's List, Progressive Change Campaign Committee and DFA. She has the support of all of the democratic clubs in the district, plus extras (the count is now 12), and she narrowly missed garnering the party endorsement by one vote. She has the grassroots support, the many, many small donors who know that Peters is not the candidate who will stand up for their best interest.
But, the beer! The beer!! Where's the beer?? you say?? ;)
On Wednesday, the three candidates will be facing off in a televised debate on KPBS at 5:30 pm. You can go here to ask a question before the debate. The Whistle Stop Bar has graciously offered to host a debate watching party! There will be drink specials and possibly some food... but most of all it will be a great chance not only to cheer Lori on, but also meet up with fellow progressives!
Here's the Facebook event page - check it out and hope to see you there!!!