Former baseball MVP Steve Garvey announced his candidacy for the late California Senator Dianne Feinstein’s seat. At 74, Garvey is no stranger to competition, having played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres.
His entry into the political arena brings a touch of star power to the Republican ticket in a state that has been dominated by Democrats for over three decades.
Garvey launched his campaign with a video filled with baseball imagery, harking back to his days as a perennial All-Star. The video also hinted at his intention to lean towards the political center, a move that could potentially appeal to voters across party lines.
Former Dodgers great Steve Garvey is taking a swing at the U.S. Senate. He is running as a Republican in California, hoping to fill the seat held by the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein. https://t.co/8BW3HIL56Z pic.twitter.com/ArEVQ3lwgh
— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) October 10, 2023
“I never played for Democrats or Republicans or independents. I played for all of you,” Garvey stated in the video, indicating his desire to represent all Californians.
The former baseball star also addressed some of the pressing issues facing the state, including homelessness and crime. He promised a “common sense campaign” focused on practical solutions.
In an interview, Garvey revealed that he had voted for Trump in the past but remained undecided about the upcoming 2024 presidential race.
Despite being a newcomer to politics, Garvey is not entirely unfamiliar with the political landscape. He previously considered running for office after retiring from baseball.
However, this time around, he seems motivated by the “quality of life stress” that spread throughout the state. His campaign will focus on reducing crime, improving education, and addressing inflation and high gas prices.
BREAKING: Former Major League Baseball player and all star Steve Garvey announces he is entering the 2024 U.S. Senate race in California.
Garvey is running as a Republican for the seat long held by the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein and newly-appointment Sen. Laphonza Butler. pic.twitter.com/WCBpUDDLdR
— Eytan Wallace (@EytanWallace) October 10, 2023
Garvey’s entrance into the race provides Republicans with a recognizable name, even though he may be unknown to younger voters.
Given the large number of candidates expected to divide the vote in the March 5 primary, it’s possible Garvey could make it to the November general election. To do so, he would need to consolidate Republican and conservative voters behind his candidacy.
However, Garvey’s campaign is not without controversy. His past personal life has been marred by scandals, which opponents have already begun to use against him. Despite this, Garvey remains undeterred, stating, “I think our life is a journey.”
Steve Garvey’s entry into the California Senate race brings a fresh perspective and a touch of star power to the Republican ticket. It remains to be seen how his campaign will fare in a state that’s been dominated by Democrats for over three decades.
