President Reagan’s Navy Secretary Endorses SEAL Commander for Congress

Senator Jim Webb Endorses Mike Lumpkin for California’s 52nd District

Santee, CA—The local momentum of Navy SEAL Commander (Ret.), Mike Lumpkin’s bid for the 52nd Congressional District seat picked up important national traction this week with the endorsement of Virginia Senator Jim Webb.

Senator Webb, a combat decorated Marine and former Republican, was appointed Secretary of the Navy by President Reagan. Webb, known for being an independent-minded military “hawk,” who resigned after serving one year because he refused to decrease the size of the Navy, had this to say about his endorsement of Lumpkin:

“I support Mike Lumpkin because he is a man of integrity who is focused on doing what’s right for all Americans. Mike understands that Congress must act with urgency and bipartisan consensus to honorably support our veterans, restore our economy, and make our nation more secure. Mike’s unique background makes him the type of Congressman this country needs to get the job done.”

The Lumpkin campaign sees Webb’s 2006 upset victory over Republican incumbent, George Allen, as an indicator of the 52nd District race this November. “The 2006 elections were a shining example of patriotism. American voters flatly rejected divisive partisan politics and voted for the best person – not the party. We believe voters value the safety and prosperity of their country more than political partisanship,” said Chris Young, campaign manager and spokesperson for the Lumpkin campaign. ‘Mike’s lived here his entire life. He shares the values and concerns of his neighbors – he trusts them to do the right thing for America,” said Young.

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 Command. He was born and raised in Vista. Commander Lumpkin and his wife Jill have one son and two beautiful granddaughters. They reside in Jamul.