OakPAC endorses Swanson
for Chan's Assembly Seat

OakPAC, the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce’s political action committee, has unanimously endorsed Sandre Swanson in the 16th District Assembly race to replace Wilma Chan in the seat that represents Oakland, Alameda and Piedmont. Swanson has been chief of staff for former U.S. Rep. Ron Dellums and Rep. Barbara Lee for 30 years. Benjamin Scott, public policy director for the chamber and executive director of OakPAC, said Swanson’s experience at the state and federal levels and track record of getting funds for Bay Area economic development projects distinguished him from the field that includes Oakland City Attorney John Russo, attorney Clinton Killian and Piedmont school board member Ronnie Caplane. Scott said Swanson impressed OakPAC with his understanding of the issues facing Oakland, particularly housing, economic development, education and transportation. “He has shown right off the bat that he wants to work with the business community,” Scott said, adding that the PAC will promote Swanson’s candidacy with an informational campaign and funding.