Candidate for
Insurance Commissioner; State of California; Democratic Party

I seek your support in my bid to return to the Department of Insurance to rebuild the department and restore its integrity. Unfortunately my successor, Chuck Quackenbush, was forced out of office in a notorious scandal that harmed the Department of Insurance. Do you agree with me that after dedicating four years to building an excellent organization, and then watching someone tear it apart, there is a very natural desire to return to rebuild?

There are many challenges facing the next commissioner. Auto and home owners insurance premiums are on the rise. The workers compensation system is collapsing with numerous bankruptcies and much higher rates. The health insurance system is in desperate need for reform. Fraud still drives up all our premium rates. The insurance industry needs an agency that is efficient and quick to respond to the ever changing needs of the insurance industry.

The Insurance Commissioner must enforce the insurance laws, regulate this huge industry, protect consumers, fight fraud, and assure a viable and healthy industry. I have the experience to do this. As Insurance Commissioner I will also work with the Legislature and governor to design solutions to the many problems that plague the health care system, workers compensation system and auto and home insurance systems.

While money is necessary to finance a campaign, it is wrong for a candidate for Insurance Commissioner to take insurance company contributions. Disgraced commissioner Quackenbush said it best, "Taking insurance company contributions will compromise me." Quackenbush did take their money and he was compromised. I do not accept insurance company contributions.