Liberal California congressman Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee and advocate for overturning the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, could be entering the race to replace retiring Senator Barbara Boxer.
“Since Senator Boxer announced her retirement, I have been encouraged by many Californians to run for her seat in 2016,” the 54-year-old from Burbank stated. “As the opportunity to run for a California Senate seat comes around very seldom and I would relish the chance to serve the entire state, I am giving the matter serious consideration.”
Schiff, still arguing for a constitutional amendment to overturn the freedom of political speech victory by Citizens United, posted in Facebook on Wednesday:
Today marks the 5 year anniversary of the Citizens United decision, which unleashed a deluge of anonymous spending into our political system through Super PACs. An important first step in restoring transparency, is to pass the Disclose Act, which will shed light on these vast expenditures. But to limit the expenditures themselves, it will be necessary to introduce a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United and prior court decisions that have upended a reasonable system of campaign finance reform.
The Sacramento Bee reported that Schiff’s contest to unseat Jim Rogan in 2000 was one of the most expensive House races ever. The congressman, who represents the Burbank, Glendale, and Pasadena area, said that, “I hope to reach a decision in the near future after consulting with my family, friends and constituents.” This sounds a lot like he’s all in for 2016.
Rounding out the field of those still considering joining Schiff for the senate contest are: Kamala Harris, (the only officially announced candidate), former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Treasurer John Chiang, Reps. Xavier Becerra and Loretta Sanchez. Billionaire Tom Steyer pulled out of the race on Thursday preferring to spend his time combating global warming.
So far no Republican candidates have thrown his or her hat in the ring.
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