Potential political candidates begin the process

It's an election year in the state of California and that means one thing for sure - politics is in the air.

Starting at the top with the gubernatorial race and trickling down to county seats, potential candidates are making their intentions known in the state, county and cities in their bid for office.

On the local front there are 11 positions open to those who feel the civic urge to serve their fellow citizens in such a capacity.

Already a number of residents have requested candidacy filing papers from the Tehama County Elections Department, according to Jennifer Vise, assistant registrar.

Potential candidates can file their declaration of candidacy with the elections department from Feb. 16 through March 12.

The primary election will be held June 8 and the general election is Nov. 2.

According to county records, there are four people who have requested candidacy papers for two Superior Court Judge seats with the upcoming retirement of judges Dennis Murray, office 2, and Edward King, office 1.

Bottke, a private attorney in Red Bluff, said he is seeking Murray's office.

"I believe my broad experience in, family, public, juvenile and criminal law, estate and probate matters, and civil litigation have given me the requisite experience, knowledge of the law and ability to serve the citizens of Tehama County with distinction on the Superior Court," he said.

Another potential candidate for that office is William Murphy, current counsel for the county.

"Being a judge is not an entry-level position," said Murphy, who has been serving as a public lawyer since 1986. "Judging at the pinnacle of a successful legal career brings to the bench the benefit of extensive experience and perspective gained over time."

He noted under the state constitution, an attorney must be a member of the state bar for a minimum of 10 years immediately preceding selection as a judge.

Two people have also announced they plan on running for the county's Superior Court Judge, office 1 seat.

One of those is Jonathan Skillman, currently serving the county's assistant district attorney.

"I have desired my entire career to be on the judiciary, even before I started law school," he said. "I have worked for a civil law firm and for 20 years in the D.A.'s office, much of that time as assistant prosecutor. I have handled all kinds of cases, including the most serious and violent felonies."

Skillman believes his experience in the courtroom working with law enforcement, judges and other attorneys, has prepared him to be a tough but fair judge.

Attorney Lisa A. Muto is also seeking the position Judge King will leave vacant.

"I have been encouraged by many members of the legal community and others to run," she said. "My academic and professional records are exceptional and I have an extensive background in litigating both criminal and civil court cases."

Muto believes her intelligence, experience, temperament and good moral character are important aspects she could bring to the bench.

So far, other potential hot races in the county are for Tehama County sheriff/coroner, district attorney and District 3 supervisor positions.

Incumbent Clay Parker has announced his candidacy to retain his seat for the fourth term, but has someone from within the department, Det. Dave Hencratt, who has announced his bid for the badge.

Attorney Kenneth Miller has announced his fight for the district attorney position, against incumbent Gregg Cohen, who is seeking his fourth round as the county's lead prosecutor.

And vying for District 3 Supervisor is retiring Undersheriff Dennis Garton, and Melvin Freimuth. Charles Willard who currently holds the position said he will not be throwing his hat into the ring to seek re-election.

Other local position on the June 8 election ballot will be county superintendent of schools, District 4 supervisor, auditor/controller, assessor, clear/recorder, and treasurer/tax collector.

So far each of those positions has only one potential candidate on file at the Elections Department, five of them are incumbents.