Tomi Van de Brooke announced today that she received the significant endorsement of State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson in her campaign to be the next Contra Costa County Supervisor in District 2.
“I know the public education issues that Contra Costa County residents are facing firsthand and I believe that Tomi Van de Brooke has the experience and leadership skills to be an effective advocate for us on the Board of Supervisors,” said Superintendent Torlakson. “As a Contra Costa Community College Governing Board Trustee, Tomi has supported common sense solutions to increase fiscal accountability while providing much needed educational opportunities for our community. She understands the value of investing in career and technical training for county residents, especially in this economy. I’m proud to endorse Tomi for Contra Costa County Supervisor.”
Superintendent Torlakson is a second-generation teacher who began his career of public service at Contra Costa County’s Mount Diablo Unified School District. Prior to his election as Superintendent, Torlakson served two terms in the California State Senate, representing the 7th district, which consists of most of Contra Costa County. He previously served three terms in the California State Assembly representing the 11th district, which also covers portions of Contra Costa County, and 16 years on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. Before that, he was elected to the Antioch City Council.
Torlakson’s endorsement adds to the growing momentum of Van de Brooke’s campaign. She has already received key endorsements from State Senator Mark DeSaulnier, State Assembly Members Susan Bonilla and Joan Buchanan, Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Joseph Ovick, and many current and former leaders from Alamo, Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, San Ramon, Walnut Creek and other areas. A full list is available at www.tomivdb.com.
Van de Brooke currently serves as the Ward II Trustee on the Contra Costa Community College District Governing Board. Her diverse experience – working for both large and small businesses and non-profits – makes her uniquely qualified to ensure the county government is serving the needs of our community. Her background includes working for Fortune 500 companies, starting and running her own small business and serving as the managing partner for a Walnut Creek communications firm. She has also served on a number of economic development boards and as Chief of Staff for the District III County Supervisor in the San Ramon Valley.
As Supervisor, Van de Brooke will ensure fiscal transparency and accountability and push a results-oriented approach to county operations. She believes that our county government can do more to invest in local roads, protect public safety, and revitalize our local economy. Van de Brooke was born and raised in Contra Costa County. She and her husband, John, reside in Orinda with their two sons, Ben and Michael.
For more information, visit www.TomiVDB.com or follow Tomi on Facebook www.facebook.com/TomiforSupervisor or on Twitter @tomivdb.
