BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) \u2014 With the primary election approaching, voters in Kern County\u2019s District 2 will choose between two candidates vying for a seat on the board of supervisors.<\/p>\n
The race features incumbent Chris Parlier and challenger Sydney O\u2019Connor, each offering different priorities for a district that spans a wide range of communities. District 2 includes Tehachapi, California City, Taft, Maricopa, Boron, Mojave, Rosamond, Frazier Park and parts of south and southwest Bakersfield.<\/p>\n
Parlier, who moved to Kern County at age 22 after serving in the U.S. Air Force, currently represents District 2 and is seeking re-election. Before joining the Board of Supervisors, he served on the Bakersfield City Council representing Ward 7.<\/p>\n
He points to several accomplishments during his time in office, including park improvements across the district, expanded use of Flock safety cameras, the addition of drones for the Kern County Sheriff\u2019s Department, and economic development tied to Tejon Ranch, including a planned casino project.<\/p>\n
Parlier says his priorities moving forward include economic growth, infrastructure improvements and public safety.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m about people and potholes, not politics, just solving problems,\u201d Parlier said. \u201cI stay very connected to the community, and if I\u2019m not in the office, I\u2019m out there with the people.\u201d<\/p>\n
O\u2019Connor, a Tehachapi native and caregiver, offers a contrasting platform. She is also a leader with United Domestic Workers and emphasizes environmental sustainability and social issues.<\/p>\n
\u201cWater is a human right, so that\u2019s a priority,\u201d O\u2019Connor said. \u201cSustainable green energy is also a big focus for me, along with being a strong advocate for workers\u2019 rights.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her campaign focuses on environmental concerns, infrastructure, access to health care and support for local businesses.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve seen the struggles of real communities, and I don\u2019t plan to leave anytime soon,\u201d O\u2019Connor said. \u201cThis is my home, and I want to make a difference here.\u201d<\/p>\n
Unlike many races in California\u2019s June primary, where the top two candidates advance to a general election in November, the District 2 contest will be decided outright if a candidate receives more than 50% of the vote.<\/p>\n
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