By Jessica Springgay
Citizen Staff Writer
With a vow to serve the people, Elk Grove resident Jim Cook formally announced his candidacy for California's 10th Assembly District seat.
'There's a difference between politicians and public servants," Cook said to roughly 40 supporters Jan. 16 at a press conference at Laguna Creek High School. 'Politicians represent special interests, while public servants represent the people's interests. It's time to elect a public servant to the state legislature."
Cook vowed to fight for responsible growth, increased funding for public schools and vocational training, expanded access to affordable healthcare, veterans' rights, renewable energy, workers' rights and an increase in job creation.
'Your values are my priorities," he said. 'I want to seek healthcare for all Californians. It's essential that we provide for our workers a sustainable wage. We can't afford the housing; we can't afford the healthcare."
Cook hopes to expand access to affordable healthcare, especially in rural areas.
'I will fight to make sure affordable prescription medication is available in California," he said.
He also vowed to improve healthcare and readjustment services for veterans and their families.
'When you support the troops, you support their families, too," he said. 'When the guardsmen and reservists are away from home, pay for their healthcare."
Cook, a 30-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former educator for the Elk Grove Unified School District (EGUSD), will square off against Republican Assembly Representative Alan Nakanishi for the District 10 seat. Nakanishi was elected to represent the 10th District in 2002.
'I'm planning on winning the primary and taking home the victory in November," Cook said.
Cook's speech was well received by those in attendance.
'I think he toughed on the issues that are really important to us," said Nell Ranta, an 18-year Elk Grove resident. 'I'm concerned about what's happening to schools and to healthcare. It's got to be corrected."
Cook said he would walk the district, which includes Lodi, Rancho Cordova, Stockton, Elk Grove, Sacramento, Ione, Jackson, Sutter Creek, Plymouth and Amador City, to ensure every resident gets heard.
'I'm a public servant and I will work for your vote,"
he said.