SANTEE, CA – East county is buzzing about retired Navy SEAL Commander Mike Lumpkin running as a Democrat for California’s 52nd Congressional District. With over $300,000 in campaign contributions to date, Commander Lumpkin has raised tens of thousands of dollars more than any Democratic candidate in the history of the 52nd Congressional District.

Commander Lumpkin’s historic fund raising effort reached record breaking heights last month when it broke the previous record set in the 2000 Congressional race. Democratic candidate Craig Barkacs raised $267,000 over the course of his entire campaign, a number which Lumpkin surpassed last month just after the primary. “East county’s excitement is telling. Just like the rest of the nation, they want change – they want their country back,” said Campaign Manager Chris Young. “It’s not just Democrats who are coming alive in the district, Commander Lumpkin’s supporters and volunteers include Independents and Republicans as well,” said Young.

Commander Lumpkin has garnered endorsements from many local and national groups and figures. With unprecedented support and momentum, Lumpkin has become a serious contender in the race to represent the 52nd. “My patriotic neighbors value freedom, good jobs, secure borders, and America’s reputation as the beacon of hope in the world,” stated Commander Lumpkin, voicing his understanding of the constituents and their desires, “we understand that preserving our values transcends political party registration.”

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 career. 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, while serving as the liason to Congress for the US Special Operations Command he was responsible for getting the troops body armor and PTSD funding. He was born and raised in Vista. Commander Lumpkin and his wife Jill have one son and two beautiful granddaughters. They reside in Jamul.

For more information or to schedule an interview with Mike Lumpkin please contact Chelsea Nevius at (619) 449-2496 or chelsea@lumpkinforcongress.com