Santee, CA-

Navy SEAL Commander (Ret.), Mike Lumpkin was endorsed by Jim Hester today, following Hester’s withdrawal from the race for the 52nd Congressional District. Hester, an attorney from Scripps Ranch who also served with the Army Green Berets, focused on national unity rather than party loyalty.

Hester pledged his support because Commander Lumpkin shares his belief that Americans are wary of divisive politics and want elected officials who will represent the interests of all citizens. “I believe legislators owe it to their constituents to set aside partisan politics to work toward the common good. My book, Fourth and Long: Making America a Championship Team, was written for that very purpose. Mike is the only candidate in this race I trust to work toward that same goal. I also believe he is the only Democratic candidate who can win in the general election,” said Hester.

Commander Lumpkin was grateful for Hester’s support. “I have great respect for Jim Hester. He is a family man, a veteran, and a champion of awareness and support for victims of Cystic Fibrosis. I am honored to have him at my side,” said Lumpkin.

Commander Lumpkin sees the challenges we face as American priorities, not partisan politics. “Our nation is hemorrhaging blood and treasure in Iraq with no meaningful plan in place or end in sight. We need jobs, health care, a stable economy, and secure borders and ports. Congress must work with urgency for the good of all Americans. I believe those are the values voters are bringing to the polls this year,” said Lumpkin.

Commander Mike Lumpkin served 21 years in the U.S. Navy including eight operational tours as a Navy SEAL on continents across the world. He received over 40 commendations and awards during his service. He was Deputy Commander of Joint Special Operations Task Forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He has served as the officer in charge of all west coast SEAL teams, managing over 2000 military and civilian personnel with budgets over $300 million. In addition, Commander Lumpkin served as the liason to Congress for the US Special Operations Forces. He was born and raised in Vista. Commander Lumpkin and his wife Jill have one son and two beautiful granddaughters. They reside in Jamul.