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Former Assembly Speaker Bob Hertzberg is by most accounts doing pretty well in his new identity as a lawyer and solar projects venturist. Still, there was a flurry of interest when the onetime Los Angeles mayoral candidate mused publicly a couple of weeks ago about running for the state Senate. Those stories have run their course now, and today Hertzberg released a statement (through campaign strategist John Shallman) saying thanks but no thanks. Whole thing is below.
After thoughtful consideration, I have decided not to pursue a campaign for the State Senate.I believe the extraordinary challenges we face in California can best be met with big ideas and independent voices. Pursuing a partisan campaign at this time would inevitably distract from my top priority -- reforming our government to better serve its citizens. As such, I look forward to helping lead the joint initiative campaign by California Forward and The Think Long Committee to bring accountability to California’s budget process, which will be on the November 2012 ballot.
In addition, over the last 6 years, I have worked with my partners to build a cutting edge solar products company, G24I. This enterprise is at a critical juncture, with several new products set to launch, and I’m determined to see this venture succeed -- creating jobs, protecting the environment and making a real difference in the world.
I am grateful to the many people of the San Fernando Valley and Ventura County who urged me to consider this campaign. Stay tuned. Rest assured, I will never give up the fight.