Former Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres player Steve Garvey is officially the Republican nominee in the California runoff election to replace the vacancy left by the late U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and will now face Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA) in November's general election
In his victory speech, Garvey made several allusions to his previousĀ career in theĀ Major League Baseball, playing an impressive 13 seasons with the Dodgers and four with the Padres.
Steve Garvey Primary Election Night https://t.co/LD8oKEvXC1
— Steve Garvey (@SteveyGarvey6) March 6, 2024
"What you are all feeling tonight --- is what hitting a walk-off home run in a big game feels like. Because the networks have called it --- weāre going on to the general election to face off against Adam Schiff. Keep in mind that this is the first game of a doubleheader. So, keep the evening of November 5th open," said Garvey.
Additionally, Garvey vowed to make California "the heartbeat of America" and claimed he was "running for all the people," comparing it to playing "for all the fans."
Moreover, he called on voters to "join our campaign" if they wished to secure the border, lower gas prices, address the homeless crisis in California, return power to the police, and project American strength abroad.
"I promise you that Iāll be your voice in Washington, DC. Unlike others, I donāt want the job --- I want to do the job. You know when career politicians say they need seniority in the Senate to solve problems --- theyāre only thinking of themselves. And when the pundits say a candidate needs long lists of far-fetched policies to talk about --- theyāre only thinking of the special interests. But when I say I will bring commonsense and compassion to Washington --- Iām only thinking about you," Garvey continued.
The ex-first baseman faces stiff competition from Rep. Schiff, who is heavily favored in the deep-blue Golden State. The Wall Street JournalĀ suggestedĀ Rep. Schiff hoped to face Garvey in the general election, focusing heavily on advertising against him to the tune of $12 million.
Garvey alluded to this in his address, saying, "And my opponent has been advertising that he wants me. He's mistaking kindness for weakness. I would suggest that he keep in mind that old saying --- be careful what you ask for."
