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PDA Forum Ends with Victory for Emblem Campaign

By Mike Copass
February 15, 2010, San Diego, CA

In a fiercely contested primary race for the Democratic nomination, Congressional candidate Tracy Emblem earned the endorsement of the Progressive Democrats of America San Diego Metro Chapter after a lively and somewhat fiery forum with her primary opponent on January 25. Emblem, who carried the room with over 60% of the vote is proud to have the support of the Progressive Democrats stating, "It's time to stand and deliver on the promises of moving our country forward and putting Americans first."

Ms. Emblem, an appellate attorney practicing in Escondido, seeks to replace Republican Brian Bilbray in the November 2010 Congressional election.  The field of primary challengers had been as large as three, but narrowed to two when Solana Beach mayor Dave Roberts withdrew his bid. Emblem's rival for the primary is Cardiff resident Francine Busby, who has contested the Bilbray-held seat twice before.    

The format of the chapter endorsement in the 50th required both candidates to submit answers to a very challenging written questionnaire, which focused on PDA core issues including ending occupations in Iraq and Afghanistan, "Medicare for All" health care, and questions focusing on energy, the environment and voting issues. Additionally, the candidates gave oral presentations, as well as answering questions from the chapter membership.

To win the endorsement, Emblem faced steep competition.  Having campaigned for the seat in 2004, (when it was held by the currently-incarcerated Republican Randall "Duke" Cunningham), and again in 2006, Francine Busby is a seasoned campaigner, and is well-known in Democratic circles throughout San Diego County.  Busby narrowly lost to the migrant Republican Brian Bilbray in 2006 (a former Congressman ousted by Rep Susan Davis in 2000), and seems determined to re-take the seat.   Emblem and Busby have faced off at numerous Democratic clubs and politically-oriented groups across the Escondido-centered district, which extends from Carlsbad to the Clairemont neighborhood of the City San Diego.

Ms. EmbIem's success in this endorsement may be traced to her outspokenness about her progressive stances. Emblem took positions in support of "Medicare for All" healthcare reform, as envisioned in Conyers' HR 676, and pledged to join the Congressional Progressive Caucus.  Additionally, Emblem has taken positions on future war funding which won praise from the largely anti-war group assembled. 

Appellate attorney and mother of a large family, Emblem specializes in legal cases known as special writs of habeas corpus, winning acclaim and an appearance on Larry King Live on CNN.   She now hopes to bring her legal knowledge and her passion for justice to Washington. In Emblem's words "I am running for office because I believe in public service, helping people and, looking for solutions. We all have the responsibility to help make this world a better place.

Visit TracyEmblemforCongress.com.

PDA is now considering Emblem for a national endorsment.  Read her responses to the endorsement questionnaire.