RETIRED FIREFIGHTER CAPTAIN JOE KERR
COTO DE CAZA, CA— A court has denied a petition filed by a fellow Democratic candidate in California’s 40th Congressional District (CA-40) race seeking to challenge Joe Kerr’s ballot designation, reaffirming long-standing California law and prior determinations by election officials.
The petition attempted to block Kerr from using his retired profession of “Firefighter Captain” on the ballot, despite clear state guidelines allowing candidates to list either their current or retired primary profession.
Under California law, a ballot designation may reflect a candidate’s current principal profession or their retired profession. Joe Kerr served 34 years as a firefighter and retired as a Captain. His designation is fully consistent with state law and the Secretary of State’s guidelines.
“Like many retirees, I’ve continued to stay active in public service,” Kerr said. “I’m proud of that work, whether it’s helping oversee clean water protections, supporting wildfire prevention, orassisting during the COVID-19 pandemic response. But none of those roles were my primaryoccupation. My career was in the fire service, and I’m honored to have served”
Kerr noted that while others may focus on procedural challenges and political tactics, voters in California’s 40th District are focused on real issues.
“Families are worried about the skyrocketing cost of living, wildfire risk, and the direction of our democracy,” Kerr said. “That’s where my focus is, and where it will stay. I believe voters are looking for steady leadership and a proven track record of service, not distractions.
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