Emmerson sworn in as state senator

Republican Bill Emmerson, former Assemblyman from Redlands (AD 63) was today sworn in as state Senator from Hemet (SD 37).

In taking the oath at a special ceremony on the floor of the California Senate in Sacramento, Emmerson said, "I am deeply humbled and honored to have bee selected to represent the people of Riverside County. In the State Senate, I will continue to fight to create more California jobs, strengthen our economy, and enact government reforms to get our state back on track.

"I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to implement policies that will rebuild our economy and get Californians working again."

Emmerson won on June 8 in a three way race taking 58.38 percent of the vote against Democrat Justin Blake with 30.87 percent, and American Independent Matt Monica with 10.75 percent.

Emmerson had accepted a June 4 Idyllwild debate invitation, but cancelled just before the debate with Blake and Monica was to have begun. It proceeded without him.

The great debate

Despite the sudden cancelation of Assemblyman Dr. Bill Emerson, the other two candidates for the Senate Dist. 37 seat appeared in idyllwild.

Justin Blake, Democratic candidate, below, moderates, Annamarie Padula and Doug Yagoloff.

Matt Monica, American Independent Party candidate.

Emmerson cancels Idyllwild debate appearance

Citing a family emergency, Assemblyman Bill Emmerson (R AD 63 Redlands) cancelled his Idyllwild debate appearance at 2:42 p.m. on the day of the debate, Friday June 4.
Sponsoring organizations the Pine Cove Property Owners Association and the Idyllwild Town Crier notified Blake and Monica of Emmerson's last minute cancellation.

The debate, one of the only ones Emmerson had accepted during the campaign, was scheduled for 6 p.m. and proceeded with the other two candidates, Democrat Justin Blake and American Independent Matt Monica.


Shortly after receiving notification from Emmerson's staff, the Town Crier began fielding calls from off Hill media seeking to verify Emmerson's cancellation.

In anticipation of a large turnout including off Hill media, the Town Crier had moved the debate into the Fire Station Bay.

Attendees at the debate expressed upset and disbelief at Emmerson's cancellation on such short notice.