Levine faces two challengers in Assembly primary race

Assemblyman Marc Levine, D-San Rafael, faces two familiar primary challengers for the 10th Assembly District seat he has held since 2012.

Republican Gregory Allen of Novato lost to Levine in the 2014 general election, while Democrat Veronica Jacobi of Santa Rosa received just 5 percent in the 2014 primary, though she did little campaigning.

This time around, Levine, a former San Rafael city councilman, is heavily favored to win the predominantly democratic district that includes all of Marin County and southern Sonoma County including Petaluma.

During his time in the Assembly, Levine, one of the most progressive lawmakers in Sacramento, has authored several high-profile bills, including measures to allow selfies in polling places, increase health standards for fashion models and rename the Waldo Tunnel after Robin Williams, who lived in Marin County.

But Levine said he has also worked on many bills that fly under the radar.

“I’ve been working really hard in the legislature,” he said.

Legislation he has had passed include laws to allow craft beer and wine makers to offer tasting at farmers markets, permit craft distillers to sell spirits in their tasting rooms and let children seeking refugee status remain in the state longer. He has also authored a bill that would close a loophole on the sale of assault-style weapons in California.

“Any gun control measures are always difficult,” he said.

Jacobi, his democratic challenger, is a former Santa Rosa city councilwoman and a mechanical engineer. Her main issues are climate change, affordable housing and creating “green” jobs.

While on the city council, she said she pushed for a tough climate action plan.

“I’m proud that the city’s climate plan won awards,” she said. “If I wasn’t on the council, it would have been much different.”

Allen, a cyber security recruiter, served in the Air Force. He did not return messages left with his campaign, but his website lists key issues including defending the Prop. 13 property tax protections, preserving open space and helping veterans.

David McCuan, a Sonoma State University political scientist, said that Levine’s campaign is well-funded, and he does not face a significant challenge this year. He said potential formidable opponents have stayed out of the race.

“Levine is able to build a substantial war chest that can ward off these other folks,” he said. “There are a number of quality challengers in the district, but they have all taken a pass. Levine has the opportunity to be in that seat for 12 years.”

The top two voter-getters in the June 7 primary, regardless of party, will advance to the November general election.

(Contact Matt Brown at matt.brown@arguscourier.com.)