GLENDALE—Glendale City Clerk Ardashes “Ardy” Kassakhian officially announced his candidacy for the 43rd California State Assembly district in an email sent to his colleagues, supporters and the press on Monday. Elections for this position are slated for 2016.
In the email, Kassakhian explained that he has held extensive discussions with community leaders, activists within the districts, other stakeholders as well as family and friends before making the decision to become a the representative from this diverse district in Sacramento.
“During these conversations, a few things have become very clear. First, our district is comprised of very diverse and vibrant individuals, businesses and neighborhoods. In fact, we are one of the most diverse districts in the entire State of California. But most importantly, no matter our background, we are all interested in the same thing – making sure that California is better prepared to face the challenges of a changing economy and the important role of Southern California in that future,” said Kassakhian.
“As the City Clerk for one of LA County’s largest cities, I have worked tirelessly to engage citizens in our democratic process, protect peoples’ right to vote and ensure that government works in a fair and transparent way. I hope that you will help me apply the skills that have helped me succeed in serving locally to Sacramento so we can represent all of the residents of the 43rd Assembly District. The time is now and I need your help,” added Kassakhian.
“We all want safe neighborhoods, better schools, and quality jobs – for us and our children. And in order to do this, we need someone who is from our district, invested in our common future and who won’t play the usual politics. We need someone who will put the district’s interests first and won’t back down in the face of challenges. I am that person and I hope you will support me to be your next State Assemblyman,” commented Kassakhian.
Kassahkian was first elected as Glendale City Clerk in April of 2005. He became the first person to be elected City Clerk in an open election in Glendale in 75 years. His landslide victory in a field of candidates made him the youngest person to ever hold public office in Glendale. Kassakhian has run a number of local, state and federal Get Out the Vote efforts, as well as campaigns for numerous candidates seeking public office. Ardy continues to lecture around the country on political organizing and grassroots politics. He is currently working on developing a long range strategic plan for reforming election processes in Glendale and raising voter participation in municipal elections.
The 43rd California State Assembly district covers Glendale, Burbank, La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta-Montrose and the Little Armenia and Los Feliz neighborhoods of Hollywood.
He will win no doubt about it. All opposing him might as well throw in the towel now.
Hello Ardy,
Good luck on your campaign – you seem to be the right fit. Keep me posted.
Best,
Arthur Avazian
Good job Ardy. Go for it. Good luck.
We are very proud of Ardy and his accomplishments. Great guy, who truly understands local issues, and can make a difference in Sacramento. He will do great things for the 43rd District.
Very proud of Ardy. He will surely be a worthy representative in the 43rd District and will make all of us proud.
Ardy jan,
Happy for you. I wish you the best. You deserve it and you will win, no doubt about it.
Boy from Boston ends up on the West Coast and does us proud! Ardy, you will be victorious and help bring about positive change. I watched how you held an elderly Jewish Woman’s hand during the Jewish World Watch Walk To End Genocide, and your prayed with her. You have always made time to be the main speaker during school assemblies and engage and inspire our youth. You are always at the fore front…committed and steadfast. Your compassion for “all” and always wanting to “do the right thing” are your greatest attributes. You are the people’s choice!