Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997
 
YUCCA VALLEY – Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) announced the endorsements of leading public safety groups for his 8th District Congressional campaign:

Crime Victims United of California
California State Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA)
Latino Peace Officers Association
San Bernardino Police Officers Association
California Association of Highway Patrolmen

Harriet Salarno, President of Crime Victims United of California, stated, “Cook has proven his commitment to crime victims and families of those victims. He’s made his mark by supporting tough laws to punish those who prey on our most vulnerable. When law enforcement made Paul aware of loopholes in our law that allowed convicted sex offenders to move into your neighborhoods without having to register, Paul fought to close that loophole.”

Crime Victims United of California is the state’s leading victims advocacy organization, utilizing education, legislative involvement, and political action to give victims a voice.

CSLEA serves as an umbrella organization for 18 separate law enforcement groups, including the Association of Special Agents, California Association of Criminal Investigators, California Association of Food and Drug Investigators, and California Association of Fraud Investigators

Retired San Bernardino County Sheriff Gary Penrod serves as Cook’s Congressional campaign co-chair. Cook has also earned the endorsement of retired Mono County Sheriff Dan Paranick and Riverside County Sheriff Stan Sniff.

Penrod stated, “His proven record at the local and state level has earned him my respect, and I’m proud to stand with Paul as he seeks to become our Congressman.”

Cook stated, “You cannot have a functioning community unless it is a safe community. That’s job one, and I’ll continue fighting to keep families and children safe. I’m grateful for these endorsements, and I’m proud to have their support.”

Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997

WASHINGTON DC – Congressman Darrell Issa (R-CD49) announced his endorsement of Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) for California’s 8th Congressional District race.

Issa stated, “As the Congressman representing Camp Pendleton, I’ve come to know a good number of Marines. They exemplify bravery and tenacity. We can’t afford an unproven Congressman in office; we need a Marine Colonel. We need Paul Cook.”

One of the most respected members of Congress, Issa is perhaps best known as the architect of the successful effort to recall former Gov. Gray Davis. Issa serves as Chairman of the Oversight & Government Reform Committee. The committee is charged with protecting the interests of U.S. taxpayers and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal bureaucracy. In 2008, Congressman Issa was one of the conservative leaders who opposed federal bailouts, including the Troubled Assets Relief Program.

A military veteran, Issa enlisted in the Army during his senior year in high school, later serving as a bomb disposal technician, tank platoon commander, and a computer R&D specialist. He attained the rank of Captain.

Cook stated, “I’m honored by Issa’s endorsement. He’s a leader in California’s Congressional Caucus and an independent thinker who does what he thinks is right by the American people. His endorsement tells me we’re on the path to victory.”

Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack (R-CA 45) previously endorsed Cook. Bono Mack also serves as his campaign co-chair.

YUCCA VALLEY – Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) announced the endorsement of local leaders from Apple Valley, Victorville, Yucaipa, and Barstow for his Congressional bid. Apple Valley Mayor Barb Stanton, Yucaipa Mayor Dick Riddell, former Victorville Mayor Bob Hunter, and Barstow Councilman Tim Saenz are all supporting Cook in his 8th Congressional District bid.

Stanton stated, "Not only is he battled-tested in combat, he is battled-tested in the fight against taxes. He has the experience to lead."

Riddell stated, "Your choice of who to vote for boils down to a decision about which candidate has the proven leadership abilities, personal attributes, character, qualifications, and experience to best serve us in Washington DC. The answer is obvious. It's Paul Cook"

To view a complete list of Cook’s previous endorsements, please visit http://www.joinpaulcook.com/endorsements.asp.

An infantry officer who served with distinction in the US Marine Corps and veteran of the Vietnam War, Paul Cook's military career spanned twenty-six years. Cook’s actions in combat earned him a number of honors, including two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device. Cook retired from the US Marine Corps as a colonel

Contact: Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997

BIG BEAR LAKE – For his Congressional bid, Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) announced the endorsement of the entire Big Bear Lake City Council: Mayor Bill Jahn, Mayor Pro Tem Jay Obernolte, and Councilmembers Liz Harris, Rick Herrick, and David Caretto. Jeff Newsome, Board Member and immediate past President of the Big Bear City Community Services District, joined them in endorsing Cook for Congress.

Jahn stated, “I’ve known Paul for years, and there’s no question he’s the best choice for Big Bear Lake and the mountain communities. When Highway 330 collapsed late in 2010, Paul was the first lawmaker to meet with residents, and he worked tirelessly to compel state government to fix it. With his help, repairs occurred with unusual speed, and the early reopening minimized the effect on businesses and commerce.

“He’s also the author of the bill to repeal the illegal fire tax. We didn’t even have to ask him to run the bill. He understands our issues, and he’s willing to fight for us.”

Cook stated, “Their support means a lot to me. Rural areas like theirs deserve a strong voice in Congress, and I know I can be that voice.”

To view a complete list of Cook’s previous endorsements, please visit http://www.joinpaulcook.com/endorsements.asp.

An infantry officer who served with distinction in the US Marine Corps and veteran of the Vietnam War, Paul Cook's military career spanned twenty-six years. Cook’s actions in combat earned him a number of honors, including two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device. Cook retired from the US Marine Corps as a colonel.

Contact: Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997

HIGHLAND - Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) announced the endorsements of four City of Highland Councilmembers: Mayor Larry McCallon and Councilmembers Penny Lilburn, Sam Racadio, and John Timmer.

McCallon stated, “What sets Paul apart is his integrity. When he tackles a problem, he’s looking for solutions rather than fanfare or recognition. And that’s what we need: people willing to work and lead. I urge all Highland residents to support him.”

Cook stated, “Highland is a very dynamic city, with a wonderful diversity. I’m happy to have the support of these respected leaders, and I’m excited to represent the community in Congress.”

An infantry officer who served with distinction in the US Marine Corps and veteran of the Vietnam War, Paul Cook's military career spanned twenty-six years. Cook’s actions in combat earned him a number of honors, including two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device. Cook retired from the US Marine Corps as a colonel.

Contact: Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997

MENTONE - Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) reported the endorsement today of the Inland Valley Young Republicans (IVYR) for his 8th Congressional District race. The IVYR held an endorsement meeting on Thursday, April 12 at the Mill Creek Cattle Co. in Mentone. The event began at 6:00 PM and included candidates vying for state and Congressional seats in San Bernardino County. In order to receive an endorsement from the group, a candidate had to receive votes from a majority of the group's members who were present. In order to be a member of IVYR, a person must live or work in San Bernardino County and be under the age of 40.

Cook earned the endorsement over six other Republican candidates running for CD 8 and present at the meeting.

Arturo Garcia, President of IVYR stated, "The Inland Valley Young Republicans are proud to endorse Col. Paul Cook (Ret.) in the race for California's 8th Congressional District. The district, which includes the desert and mountain regions of San Bernardino County and all of Inyo and Mono counties, needs strong leadership in Washington D.C., and we believe Col. Cook  will do just that if elected. We endorsed Paul because we know he is the type of candidate who wants to work with the younger generation of Republicans here in the Inland Valley."

Cook stated, "You need young and old to build a winning coalition, and the support of the Inland Valley Young Republicans is absolutely crucial to that effort. These young men and women are the next generation of leaders, and their energy and tenacity gives me so much hope for our future. Keep track of their names, because you're looking at our future business leaders, councilmembers, and lawmakers. I’m thrilled to have their support."

Contact: Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997

YUCCA VALLEY – Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) announced the endorsements of two lawmakers who represent large portions of the 8th Congressional District (CD 8), in which Cook is a candidate.  Assembly Republican Leader Connie Conway – who represents Barstow, Needles, many other rural areas in San Bernardino County, and all of Inyo County – endorsed Cook, as did Assemblyman Mike Morrell, who represents Highland and portions of Yucaipa. San Bernardino County lawmaker Assemblyman Curt Hagman also endorsed Cook.

Conway stated, “I've known Colonel Cook for years, and his leadership sets him apart. As Chair of the Veterans Affairs Committee, he’s the perfect Congressman for the areas I represent – Barstow, rural portions of San Bernardino County, and Inyo County – which have so many veterans and military installations. I trust him to fight for us on the issues important to these areas.”

Morrell stated, “I'm honored to represent Highland, and I'm equally proud to represent Yucaipa along with Colonel Cook. While respected statewide, it's Paul's leadership on local issues that make him the best choice for Congress. Colonel Cook listens, he leads, and he gets it done.”

Hagman stated, “I am pleased to endorse my colleague, Colonel Cook, for his leadership on veteran's issues and commitment to the needs of San Bernardino County. Jobs are needed in our community, and the Colonel is a strong advocate for the local changes necessary to make those jobs a reality.”

Cook said, “Both Mike and Connie know these parts of CD 8 extremely well. They know what residents need here, and the three of us share that same vision for jobs and economic growth. They also know that this is perhaps the most important military area in the state, and it’s home to a huge numbers of veterans too. That’s why I’m also proud to have the endorsement of Curt Hagman, a man who shares my concern for these issues.”

An infantry officer who served with distinction in the US Marine Corps and veteran of the Vietnam War, Colonel Paul Cook's military career spanned twenty-six years. Cook’s actions in combat earned him a number of honors, including two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device. Cook retired from the US Marine Corps as a colonel.

Contact: Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997

YUCCA VALLEY - Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) today announced the endorsement of respected law enforcement leaders -- Retired Mono County Sheriff Dan Paranick, Riverside County District Attorney Paul Zellerbach, and Riverside County Sheriff Stan Sniff -- who stand with him in his bid to become the Congressman from the newly drawn 8th Congressional district. Cook’s Congressional campaign is co-chaired by retired San Bernardino County Sheriff Gary Penrod.

Said Cook, “When law enforcement made me aware of loopholes in our law that allowed convicted sex offenders to move into our neighborhoods without having to register, I fought to close that loophole. I’m honored that these law enforcement leaders trust me to continue fighting the spread of gang violence and ensuring front-line officers have the tools they need.”

Retired Mono County Sheriff Dan Paranick cited Cook’s work to fight gang violence and close loopholes for sex offenders saying, “Colonel Cook’s record of standing with law enforcement and passing tough laws against gang-related crimes is rock solid. He’s fought to protect our most vulnerable from sexual predators, and he’s tough as nails. Paul’s earned my trust. Let’s send him to Congress.”

Riverside County District Attorney Paul Zellerbach stated, “I’m proud to support Paul Cook for Congress. We’ve worked closely to address some of our region's most pressing law enforcement challenges. Paul has helped crack down on government corruption. He’s closed loopholes that let sex offenders evade registering with law enforcement. Living outside his district, I wish I could vote to send Colonel Cook to Congress. I can’t, but you can. The bottom line is that Paul gets it done.”

An infantry officer who served with distinction in the US Marine Corps and veteran of the Vietnam War, Colonel Paul Cook's military career spanned twenty-six years. Cook’s actions in combat earned him a number of honors, including two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device. Cook retired from the US Marine Corps as a colonel.

Contact: Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997
 
YUCCA VALLEY - Colonel Paul Cook (ret.) announced the endorsement of all five members of the Twentynine Palms City Council and all five members of the Yucca Valley Town Council for his Congressional District 8 campaign. Councilmembers from Twentynine Palms include the following: Mayor John Cole, Mayor Pro-tem Joel Klink, Councilman Jim Harris (former Mayor 2011), Councilman Jay Corbin, and Councilman Dan Mintz.  Councilmembers from Yucca Valley include the following: Mayor Dawn Rowe, Mayor Pro-tem Isaac Hagerman, Council Member Merl Abel, Council Member George Huntington, and Council Member Robert Lombardo.

Mayor Cole stated, “I’m happy to endorse Paul Cook for Congress. He has demonstrated continually an interest and care for his constituents, particularly in the Morongo Basin, and he has demonstrated integrity and a willingness to tackle the tough problems.”

Mayor Rowe stated, “Paul and I have worked together for a long time, but speaking as part of the Town Council, there’s no question that Paul is the right choice for this desert district. He’s the most qualified candidate by far, he’s a straight shooter, and he isn’t afraid of taking risks if it will improve the lives of Californians.”

“These endorsements mean a lot to me because of what these councilmembers represent,” Cook said. “They’re the first line of defense against federal government putting its nose into local issues, and they’re often the first to hear from constituents. I want to take the fight to Washington, and I want the voices from our desert communities heard in Congress. Having their support is crucial.”

Last week, Cook announced his congressional campaign leadership team, which includes Mary Bono Mack, Congresswoman, California 45th District; Gary Penrod, Retired San Bernardino County Sheriff; Bill Leonard, Former BOE Member; Bill Emmerson, State Senator; and Dennis Hansberger, Former San Bernardino County Supervisor.

Contact: Jim Rissmiller
Phone: 760-609-0997

YUCCA VALLEY - Retired US Marine Corps Colonel Paul Cook today announced the leadership team for his campaign in the newly drawn 8th Congressional District. Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, retired San Bernardino County Sheriff Gary Penrod, respected San Bernardino County leader Bill Leonard, State Senator Bill Emmerson, and former San Bernardino County Supervisor Dennis Hansberger will serve as co-chairs to Cook's campaign.

"I'm very proud to have such a capable leadership team that represents the very best of our region," said Cook. 

Congresswoman Bono Mack spoke to Washington's need for Cook's leadership by saying, "We need leaders like Colonel Cook in Congress fighting to create jobs, stopping wasteful spending, and saying no to taxes."
 
Penrod spoke to Cook's record saying, "There's no better friend of law enforcement than Colonel Paul Cook. His proven record at the local and state level has earned him my respect, and I'm proud to stand with Paul as he seeks to become our Congressman."

Leonard offered his thoughts on Cook's economic record saying, "Colonel Cook's a proven tax fighter. Paul's support for conservative economic policies that create jobs in our community and his fight to reduce taxes has earned him my trust and my support."

Senator Emmerson underscored Cook's service as Chairman of the Assembly Veterans Affairs Committee by saying, "No one has done more to help veterans and veteran families than Paul. Veterans deserve a leader like Colonel Cook standing up for them in Congress."

Looking to Cook to restore trust in public service, Hansberger said, "At the local level, Paul restored integrity to public service. We can be proud of him as a Congressman."

An infantry officer who served with distinction in the US Marine Corps and a veteran of the Vietnam War, Cook's military career spanned twenty-six years. Cook's actions in combat earned him a number of honors, including two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star Medal with a V for valor. Cook retired from the Marine Corps as a colonel.

As Chairman of the Assembly Veterans Affairs Committee, Cook authored legislation to lower taxes for veteran-owned businesses, improve laws for military families, and address the educational and economic needs of returning veterans.
 
The newly drawn 8th Congressional District contains large portions of San Bernardino County, as well as Mono and Inyo Counties.