The Los Angeles Times editorial board announced its endorsement Thursday in the June 3 primary to succeed veteran Democrat Rep. Henry Waxman in California's 33rd congressional district: radio host Matt Miller. The Times endorsement adds a further twist to a race in which established Democrats are contending with a field of 18 candidates, including energetic campaigns by Republican Elan Carr and independent Marianne Williamson.The Times cites Miller, who served in the Clinton administration before moving into public radio, for his "keen analytical mind and a set of creative and forward-looking proposals." It explains that it overlooked conventional choices like State Sen. Ted Lieu (D) and former L.A. city controller Wendy Greuel because they are "embedded members of the system voters hope to change." (Carr is "too conservative," and Williamson is simply ignored.)
Miller is currently in fourth place in fundraising among Democrats--though all trail Williamson--and was seen as a second-tier contender. However, the Times endorsement will likely boost his prospects, especially in a low-turnout contest with a crowded field. Democrats like Lieu and Greuel, who have waited to enter the advertising race while Miller and newcomer David Klamath surged ahead, will now have to fight much harder for attention.
The biggest beneficiary of the Times endorsement, ironically, may end up being Elan Carr. While he is reluctant to draw attention to his party identification, being identified by the Times as "too conservative" is a good way to establish credibility with Republican voters. He, and Williamson, now have a stronger chance of splitting the ten Democrats on the primary ballot and advancing to the general election in November--possibly together. Reported by Breitbart 12 minutes ago.