Congresswoman Barbara Lee today joined African American leaders in criticizing billionaire political donor Bill Bloomfield for using President Obama’s image in a mail piece supporting candidate Marshall Tuck for Superintendent of Public Instruction. Tuck is not endorsed by President Obama. His opponent, Tony Thurmond, is endorsed by the Democratic Party.
“I join CA HI NAACP President Alice Huffman in calling for Bill Bloomfield’s apology,” said Rep. Lee. “Marshall Tuck should continue to run on his own merits as a candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction, rather than relying on political stunts.”
On Friday, California Legislative Black Caucus Chair Assemblymember Chris Holden and Senator Holly Mitchell voiced their support for the open letter sent by CA HI NAACP President Huffman to Bloomfield and called on Tuck to renounce the billionaire’s action of support.
“I join CA HI NAACP President Alice Huffman’s demand for Bill Bloomfield’s apology,” said Asm. Holden. “I find it unbelievable that a billionaire would use his wealth to first try to defeat President Obama, and later exploit his image to defeat another African American candidate endorsed by the Democratic Party. Marshall Tuck would do well to make clear that he will not stand by sleazy and dishonest political tricks, especially those which abuse race and wealth.”
“I stand with CA HI NAACP President Alice Huffman against what is a shameful political stunt by Bill Bloomfield,” said Sen. Mitchell. “President Obama’s image has been exploited to mislead California voters against a highly qualified, African American candidate, who is endorsed by the Democratic Party. Marshall Tuck should renounce this outside campaign for using race to promote his candidacy.”
