Tom Torlakson Endorses Dave Jones
Sacramento, CA – In a significant show of support from California's education community, former State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson has formally endorsed Dave Jones for State Senate. Jones, who previously represented much of the Sacramento region in the State Assembly, is running in the 2022 open-seat race for Senate District 6. Torlakson, a respected voice in California education policy, praised Jones' longstanding commitment to students, teachers, and parents.
A Champion for Public Education
Tom Torlakson's endorsement carries weight. As California's top elected education official from 2011 to 2019, Torlakson oversaw the state's sprawling public school system during a period of significant change, including the implementation of the Local Control Funding Formula and the transition to Common Core standards. His tenure was marked by a focus on career technical education, early childhood learning, and improving school facilities. Before his statewide role, Torlakson served in both the State Senate and State Assembly, giving him a deep understanding of the legislative process and the importance of having strong advocates for education in Sacramento.
In announcing his endorsement, Torlakson released a statement highlighting Jones' priorities: "Dave Jones has his priorities in the right order. He understands that public education is the bedrock on which California's future will be built. Dave has always fought to support our students, teachers and parents. I know that in the State Senate, he will work to make sure our classrooms and schools get the funding and resources they need. I trust Dave to help our students succeed."
"Dave Jones has his priorities in the right order. He understands that public education is the bedrock on which California's future will be built." — Tom Torlakson
Dave Jones' Record on Education
Dave Jones has a long history of advocating for public education. During his time in the State Assembly from 2004 to 2010, Jones authored legislation to expand early childhood education and fought for increased funding for K-12 schools. He chaired the Assembly Health Committee and the Budget Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, where he worked to ensure that education and health programs received adequate resources even during difficult budget years. His commitment to education is rooted in his belief that every child deserves access to quality public schools, regardless of their zip code.
Jones' background as a legal aid attorney also informs his approach. After graduating from Harvard Law School, he provided free legal assistance to low-income families with Legal Services of Northern California. This experience gave him firsthand insight into the challenges facing underserved communities, including the barriers to educational opportunity. As a Sacramento City Councilmember from 1999 to 2004, he authored groundbreaking laws requiring developers to build more affordable housing, which helped stabilize families and, in turn, supported student success.
The Importance of Senate District 6
Senate District 6 encompasses a diverse swath of the Sacramento region, including urban, suburban, and rural communities. The district's voters have consistently prioritized education, healthcare, and environmental protection. With an open seat in 2022, the race has drawn significant attention from statewide leaders and organizations. Jones' campaign has focused on his experience and proven track record, and endorsements like Torlakson's underscore his credibility on education issues.
Jones' platform includes increasing per-pupil funding, expanding access to early childhood education, and supporting teachers with better pay and professional development. He has also emphasized the need to address the digital divide, which became glaringly apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic when many students lacked reliable internet access for remote learning. Torlakson's endorsement signals to education advocates that Jones is the candidate who will prioritize these issues in the State Senate.
A Career of Public Service
Dave Jones' career has been defined by a commitment to public service. In 1995, he was one of only 13 Americans awarded the prestigious White House Fellowship, a program that selects emerging leaders from across the country. He served for three years as Special Assistant and Counsel to United States Attorney General Janet Reno, where he worked on issues ranging from juvenile justice to civil rights. This federal experience gave him a broad perspective on policy and governance.
After returning to Sacramento, Jones was elected to the City Council, where he championed progressive policies such as living wage ordinances and domestic partnership recognition. In the State Assembly, he authored 70 bills that were signed into law, covering consumer protection, healthcare access, affordable housing, and environmental protection. His legislative record demonstrates a consistent focus on improving the lives of working families.
From Insurance Commissioner to Climate Advocate
Jones served as California's seventh Insurance Commissioner from 2011 to 2018, where he regulated the insurance industry on behalf of 38 million Californians. During his tenure, he saved consumers and businesses over $3.11 billion in premiums by reviewing and rejecting excessive rate hikes for auto, homeowners, and other property and casualty insurance. He also implemented key provisions of the Affordable Care Act in California, expanding access to health insurance and protecting consumers from discriminatory practices.
Since leaving office, Jones has focused on combating climate change. He served as a Senior Director for The Nature Conservancy and as the Director of the Climate Risk Initiative, working to help communities prepare for the impacts of a changing climate. This work has deepened his understanding of the intersection between environmental policy, public health, and economic resilience—issues that are increasingly important to voters in Senate District 6.
Building a Broad Coalition
Torlakson's endorsement is the latest in a series of high-profile supporters for Jones. Earlier this year, Assemblymember Kevin McCarty, a fellow Sacramento Democrat and education advocate, endorsed Jones, citing his "proven leadership and deep commitment to our community." Read more about Kevin McCarty's endorsement of Dave Jones here. Additionally, Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, a champion for workers' rights, and Congressmember Ted Lieu have also thrown their support behind Jones. Learn about Lorena Gonzalez's support for Dave Jones and Ted Lieu's endorsement.
These endorsements reflect a broad coalition of leaders who believe Jones has the experience and vision to represent Senate District 6 effectively. From education to healthcare to climate action, Jones has built a record that resonates with the district's priorities. Torlakson's endorsement, in particular, highlights Jones' unwavering support for public education and his ability to deliver results for students and teachers.
Looking Ahead to the 2022 Election
As the 2022 election approaches, Jones is focused on connecting with voters and discussing the issues that matter most to them. He has pledged to be a strong advocate for the Sacramento region in the State Senate, working to secure funding for local schools, expand access to healthcare, and address the housing crisis. With endorsements from respected leaders like Tom Torlakson, Jones is well-positioned to build on his legacy of public service and continue fighting for California's families.
Education remains a cornerstone of his campaign. Jones believes that investing in public education is not just a moral imperative but an economic one—a well-educated workforce is essential for California's future prosperity. Torlakson's endorsement reinforces this message and signals to voters that Jones is the candidate who will prioritize our schools in the State Senate.