Padilla adds Boxer

Sen. Barbara Boxer forayed into the Valley today to endorse Alex Padilla for the state Senate race in the 20th district. The city council president picked up California's other U.S. Senator, Dianne Feinstein, a few days ago. If nothing else, the jostling for position provides an intriguing clash of the consultants. Today's press email on Padilla's behalf came from Julie Wong, the former communications director in the mayor's office for Jim Hahn. She is now working with Progressive Strategy Partners, the firm affiliated closely with Boxer. Partner Rose Kapolczynski has managed all three of Boxer's Senate campigns. Assemblywoman Cindy Montañez, who is preparing to oppose Padilla for the Democratic nomination, has Parke Skelton and SG&A Campaigns helping her. Skelton had key roles in both of Antonio Villaraigosa's races for mayor. Sacramento fundraiser Dan Weitzman and Rebecca Suter, a former fundraiser for Bob Hertzberg, are also on Team Montañez.