Mayoral Candidate Spotlight: Nathan Fletcher

Assemblyman Nathan Fletcher announced he was leaving the Republican Party to become independent in March, surprising many people—in a good way—and eliciting strong criticism from the head of the party he was leaving.

Since then, Fletcher has gained ground in the polls, but has still been trailing leader Councilman Carl DeMaio, and see-sawing with U.S. Rep. Bob Filner in second place. The second spot could be the real competition on Tuesday, should no one of the contenders receive more than 50 percent of the vote. In that case, the top two vote-getters will face off in November.

Fletcher also is up against District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis and Tobiah Pettus.

In the official voters guide, Fletcher focuses on three characteristics he says make him the right fit for mayor:

Tough

Whether standing up to out-of-state special interests to cut taxes on small businesses or interrogating al Qaida fighters, Nathan has the toughness to stand up for taxpayers. He supports the Comprehensive Pension Reform initiative, and private-sector competition to improve neighborhood services, increase efficiency—without raising taxes.

Tested

Leading Marines in combat against international terrorists tested his ability to make tough decisions under fire. Even in Sacramento's hyper-partisan environment, he brought people together. His forward-looking leadership earned support from over 250 high-tech business leaders, community leaders and military veterans.

Trusted

When Chelsea King's parents sought stronger protections against violent sex offenders, they trusted Nathan to cut through partisan gridlock to get Chelsea's Law done. That style of leadership is why police officers, parents and small business owners support Nathan.

Others choose to exploit past failures, or defend the status quo. I choose to turn the page for a more prosperous future, transforming our city into the world's most innovative, creating 21st century jobs, strengthening public education, repairing streets, preserving canyons, protecting water quality. My family and yours deserve no less. Let's get our city moving again!

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