Amador County – Both candidates for State Assembly in District 10 squared off last Tuesday in a debate hosted by the Amador Child Care Council. Speaking before a packed chamber at the County Administrative Building, Democratic incumbent Alyson Huber and her opponent, Republican Jack Sieglock, made clear their similarities and differences.

Sieglock repeatedly stated that a vote for Huber means a vote for the leadership that drove California into a fiscal crisis. “If you want the same old business as usual, you can vote for my opponent,” said Sieglock. “But if you want a new direction and new leadership, I’d appreciate your vote.”

For her part, Huber declared that she is also opposed to the way state government does business. She said she “makes decisions based on the needs of those in my district, not party lines.”

Both candidates pointed out their recent endorsements. Sieglock said he was proud to be endorsed by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association because he has “balanced 16 budgets without raising taxes.” Huber said she has received bipartisan support, including an endorsement earlier that day from Amador County Sheriff Martin Ryan.

During public comment, both candidates were asked their views on taxes and whether they support Propositions 23 and 26, which deal with eliminating three business tax breaks and giving voters permission before any new taxes can be imposed.

Huber did not answer directly, but said “we have got to stop legislating by propositions; that is ballot box legislation.” Sieglock said the tax increases we face today were put in place “by the leadership that Alyson supports.”

Sieglock believes the budget gap can be closed without any new fees and without raising taxes. “The problem in Sacramento is that (our legislature) really isn’t drilling down,” he said.

Huber insisted “the $40 billion (budget deficit) was too big to do on cuts alone without closing all our schools…and prisons.” She said she “is doing what is fiscally prudent.”

“Do I like everything that was in the budget, no. Did I do the responsible thing, yes,” she said.

This is the second time Huber and Sieglock have vied for this seat. In 2008, Huber beat Sieglock by a scant 474 votes districtwide.

The forum also included candidates for Sutter Creek City Council and a representative speaking on behalf of 3rd District Congressional candidate Dr. Ami Bera.

Story by Alex Lane This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.