Report from Ventura County and the Reagan Library

Although I've visited the Reagan Library on many occassions, last night was my first opportunity to be a speaker at this revered site.

The Republican Party of Ventura County (Mike Osborn, Chairman) conducts regular events at the library, and last night's reception drew a standing room only crowd for some insightful discussion on the 2008 campaign with Dan Schnur, Chairman Osborn and myself under the watchful eye of dozens of presidents whose portraits were displayed around the room.

During the discussion, we recognized the Ventura County party for outstanding leadership in supporting the election of Republicans to local offices. Most recently, the party played a key role in the election of Republican Peter Foy to the county Board of Supervisors, further driving Republican influence in important local government decisionmaking.

Later this year, Ventura County will be the site of an important State Senate campaign as respected Republican Sen. Tom McClintock is termed out. Former Assemblyman and State Controller candidate Tony Strickland has declared his candidacy and will post an impressive cash on hand figure for this filing period. (Note: The party supports the winner of the June primary in the general election).

Congratulations to the Republican Party of Ventura County for a first class event last night, and for building a strong campaign organization in this important part of Southern California.