Jack O'Connell Backs Dave Jones

In a significant boost to his campaign for State Senate, Dave Jones has received the endorsement of Jack O’Connell, one of California’s most respected voices in public education. O’Connell, who served as the state’s Superintendent of Public Instruction from 2003 to 2011, announced his support today, citing Jones’ lifelong commitment to justice and his proven record of fighting for working families. The endorsement adds to a growing coalition of elected officials, community leaders, and educators rallying behind Jones’ candidacy.

A Champion for Justice and Progressive Values

Jack O’Connell’s endorsement carries weight, not only because of his own distinguished career but because it underscores the values that define Dave Jones’ public service. In his announcement, O’Connell praised Jones as “an unabashed and undaunted champion for justice,” highlighting Jones’ early work as a legal aid attorney where he provided free legal assistance to low-income families. This foundational experience, O’Connell noted, shaped Jones’ unwavering commitment to making government work for all Californians.

O’Connell’s words reflect a deep familiarity with Jones’ trajectory. From his time on the Sacramento City Council to his leadership in the State Assembly and as Insurance Commissioner, Jones has consistently advanced a progressive agenda. O’Connell emphasized that Jones “worked every day to advance a progressive agenda and make government work for Californians,” a sentiment that resonates with voters seeking a senator who will prioritize equity and opportunity.

“Dave Jones is and always has been an unabashed and undaunted champion for justice. As a legal aid attorney, Dave fought relentlessly for lower income families. As a local City Councilmember, State Assemblymember, and Insurance Commissioner, Dave worked every day to advance a progressive agenda and make government work for Californians. I am proud to support Dave Jones for State Senate, and I hope you’ll join me.” — Jack O’Connell

Jack O’Connell: A Legacy of Educational Leadership

Jack O’Connell’s endorsement is particularly meaningful given his own legacy in California politics. As the 26th State Superintendent of Public Instruction, O’Connell oversaw the state’s public school system during a period of significant challenge and change. Before that, he served in both the State Senate and State Assembly, as well as on the Santa Barbara County School Board, giving him a rare breadth of experience across local and state governance.

O’Connell is widely credited with authoring landmark education legislation in both houses of the California Legislature. His work to improve public education, particularly through the California State University system, has had a lasting impact on students and families across the state. His decision to back Dave Jones signals a belief that Jones shares that same dedication to public service and to the institutions that strengthen communities.

Dave Jones: A Career Built on Service and Results

Dave Jones’ career is a testament to the power of persistent, principled leadership. After beginning as a legal aid attorney with Legal Services of Northern California, Jones was selected as a White House Fellow in 1995—one of only 13 Americans to receive that honor that year. He went on to serve as Special Assistant and Counsel to U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno, gaining invaluable experience in federal policy and justice.

Jones’ local roots run deep. As a Sacramento City Councilmember from 1999 to 2004, he authored groundbreaking laws that required developers to include more affordable housing, established living wage standards for workers, and recognized domestic partnerships. These early wins demonstrated his ability to turn progressive ideals into concrete policy. In the State Assembly from 2004 to 2010, Jones chaired the Health Committee, the Judiciary Committee, and the Budget Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, authoring 70 bills that were signed into law. His legislative record includes major advances in consumer protection, healthcare access, affordable housing, early childhood education, environmental protection, and support for working families.

Insurance Commissioner: Protecting Consumers and Saving Billions

As California’s seventh Insurance Commissioner from 2011 to 2018, Dave Jones oversaw an agency responsible for protecting 38 million Californians. His tenure was marked by a relentless focus on consumer advocacy. Jones regulated rates for auto, homeowners, and other property and casualty insurance, saving consumers and businesses over $3.11 billion in premiums. That figure is not just a statistic; it represents real relief for families and small businesses struggling with the cost of living.

Jones also played a critical role in implementing healthcare reform, including market reforms that expanded access and protected patients. His work as Insurance Commissioner demonstrated the same commitment to fairness and accountability that he brought to every previous role. It is this record that has earned him the trust of leaders like Jack O’Connell and many others.

A Growing Coalition of Support

Jack O’Connell’s endorsement is the latest in a series of high-profile backings for Dave Jones. He joins a diverse group of elected officials, community leaders, and educators who believe Jones is the right choice for State Senate. This coalition reflects the broad appeal of Jones’ message: that government can and should be a force for good in people’s lives.

Other notable endorsements include Assemblymember Kevin McCarty, Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, Congressmember Ted Lieu, Congresswoman Katie Porter, environmental leader Fran Pavley, and State Treasurer Fiona Ma. Each of these leaders brings a unique perspective, but they share a common belief in Jones’ ability to deliver for California.

Why This Endorsement Matters

Endorsements matter because they signal trust and shared values. Jack O’Connell’s decision to support Dave Jones is not a casual one; it is rooted in decades of observing Jones’ work and character. O’Connell knows what it takes to serve effectively in Sacramento, and he sees those qualities in Jones.

For voters, this endorsement offers a clear signal: Dave Jones is a proven leader who will fight for justice, education, and economic fairness. As the campaign moves forward, the support of respected figures like Jack O’Connell will help amplify that message and build momentum toward victory.