Former GOP Assemblyman Steve Samuelian was back in the news today, although I think unfairly so. Those of you who follow State politics know that Samuelian was a long time GOP political
operative, District Director for Congressman Radanovich, and then served one term in the Assembly before electing to not run for re-election. I will not go into the issues which led to Samuelian’s decision to not seek re-election. They are widely known and if you don’t know do a Google search and learn for yourself. Although he was one of my very good friends and political allies for several years, I have not seen or spoken to him for almost three years.
Since his decision to leave the Assembly he has started a lobbying firm and has been hired by many of the Central Valley’s top companies to represent their interests to State and local government. This isn’t surprising to me. For all of his previous difficulties, he is one of the hardest workers I have ever met, and he deserves a chance to make a living and support his family. The problem I have with today’s story in the Fresno Bee (and there is no internet link to the story, sorry) is that every time Samuelian is awarded a contract with a public entity it generates a news story, and that news story brings up his past. Clearly, this is wrong. It’s time to leave him alone, let him work, and support his family in relative peace.
Some local government officials don’t want to see him hired to represent their interests. I respect their viewpoints. But I think the statute of limitations is up on Mr. Samuelian’s previous problems. It’s time to move on to more relevant news.
[Publishers note: I agree wholehartedly with Mike’s post about Steve. Also, thanks to an email from his wife (and business partner) Houry, here is a link to the Fresno Bee story! — Flash]