Orange County, Calif. -- Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner received the endorsement of Governor Pete Wilson for his campaign for Secretary of State. Pete Wilson, a two-term Governor of California from 1991 to 1999 and two term United States Senator, also agreed to serve as Supervisor Wagner’s Honorary Campaign Chairman. Governor Wilson is known for many significant achievements during his tenure, and for leaving the state of California in a better position by focusing on economic recovery which led to a significant reduction in the state's budget deficit. He also implemented tax cuts and reforms that contributed to job creation and economic expansion. Prior to serving as US Senator and Governor, Pete Wilson served as a State Assemblyman and Mayor of San Diego.

"I am pleased to support Don Wagner for Secretary of State. He is a statesman and dedicated public servant who possesses the qualifications to hold any office at any level of government, " said Wilson. "The timing could not be more important. The public has lost trust in the quality of our elections and I applaud him for stepping up in order to reassure the voters that only eligible votes will be counted, and counted quickly and efficiently. Our current Secretary of State has proven herself to be inadequate to meet the challenges facing our election system. We need a change."

"Pete Wilson left California a better place for his service. Building on the successes of Governor George Deukmejian, we were safer, our economic growth was robust, families enjoyed a choice in education for their children, and the streets were safer, " said Supervisor Wagner. "I am proud to receive Governor Wilson’s support and look forward to his counsel as we work to make California the gold standard in elections, instead of a shameful example of how to destroy public confidence in our elections and elected leaders.”

Only one month since entering the race, Supervisor Wagner has secured the support of not only Governor Wilson but two past Secretaries of State -- Bill Jones (Republican) and Bruce McPherson (No Party Preference) -- who will serve as active Campaign Chairs. Additionally, the Wagner campaign enjoys support from Democrat and Republican leaders from around the state at all levels of government. Additional endorsements will be forthcoming as Wagner challenges the incumbent, a Gavin Newsom appointee, who has had weak financial support while championing far-left positions on issues ranging from public safety to budgetary giveaways. 

Supervisor Wagner is a former Assemblyman, Mayor of Irvine, and College Board of Trustee who was elected Chairman twice by a Democrat majority Board of Supervisors. Wagner has a distinguished career of public service and a well-earned reputation as a straight shooter, fiscal watchdog, and champion for families, small businesses, veterans and first responders.

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