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<h2>Chris Kluwe for State Assembly</h2>

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<h4>Affordable Housing</h4>

<h4>Public Education</h4>

<h4>Climate Resiliency</h4>

<h4>LGBTQ+ and Civil Rights</h4>

<h4>A.I. Regulation</h4>

<h3>Fighting for Our Community</h3><small><p>Voters will have the opportunity to chart a new path away from the extremism and division that has sacked Orange County over the last several years.</p><p>Chris is focused on solutions, not political theater, that restores affordability in Orange County.</p></small>

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<h5>Canvassing Launch<br><strong>Saturday, August 15th • 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM</strong></h5><p><strong>Langenbeck Park: 8721 Suncoral Dr, Huntington Beach, CA 92646</strong></p><p>Join us for a few hours of canvassing, followed by OC Huddle's Community Block Party from 11 am to 2 pm. We hope to see you there!</p><span class="image image-base image-center" style="width: 100%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><img src="https://run.imgix.net/f82c4b48-82c5-4a67-a75b-dba85d859b7b/ca25578d-9d31-4cc9-9a3b-47a8e922b482/ca25578d-9d31-4cc9-9a3b-47a8e922b482.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1080%2C1350&amp;w=1500" alt="Canvass launch 8/15/26 flyer" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="base"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span>

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<p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text)"><strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text)">Chris' campaign centers on solutions critical to protecting and growing the California Dream for every resident, including:</strong></span><br></p>

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<h2>Assembly District 72</h2><span class="image image-base image-center" style="width: 65%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><img src="https://run.imgix.net/f82c4b48-82c5-4a67-a75b-dba85d859b7b/b20e1d24-1590-4a7c-ad3b-b5a2e54de06c/b20e1d24-1590-4a7c-ad3b-b5a2e54de06c.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C575%2C478&amp;w=1500" alt="Assembly district 72 map of coastal orange county in southern california" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="32.5" variant="base"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span>

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<p>Based in the coastal communities of Orange County, the following cities are included in Assembly District 72, which is an open seat:</p>

<h4>About AD-72<br></h4>

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<p><strong>Chris Kluwe has never been afraid to raise his voice, stand up, and fight for people when it matters most.&nbsp;</strong> Chris is not a politician.&nbsp; He’s a former NFL player, coach, and writer, as well as a longtime advocate who stays involved in his community.&nbsp;</p><p>Chris is fed up with the power that corporate special interests have in Sacramento and with politicians who put their own agendas ahead of the people.&nbsp; He’s running for State Assembly to bring his strong voice to the legislature and stand up for the working people and middle-class families that are being left behind.</p>

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<p>"We deserve a government that has a team mentality and actually works for ALL of us. In Sacramento, I’ll defend public schools, expand affordable housing, protect reproductive rights, and champion real action on climate." <strong>—Chris</strong></p>

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<h2>About Chris Kluwe</h2><span class="image image-framed image-right image-tilt-right" style="width: 32%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><img src="https://run.imgix.net/f82c4b48-82c5-4a67-a75b-dba85d859b7b/37e7553a-50bd-4317-bb32-5ccba117eb53/37e7553a-50bd-4317-bb32-5ccba117eb53.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=678%2C392%2C2607%2C2515&amp;w=1500" alt="Chris Kluwe UCLA" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="32" tiltdirection="right" variant="framed"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Chris is a former NFL player, coach, writer, and strong advocate who is passionate about standing up for people who are being left behind. He’s no politician.&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Growing up in Seal Beach, Chris attended Los Alamitos High School and excelled as both a student and an athlete. </strong>The oldest of three siblings, he grew up in a middle-class household where his dad worked as a chemical engineer and his mom as an anesthesiologist, instilling in him the importance of hard work and education.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">After graduating with honors, he earned a full athletic scholarship to UCLA, where he became one of the top punters in the country while completing a double major in political science and history. <strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">His work ethic and determination helped him earn a position in the NFL, where he played eight seasons for the Minnesota Vikings and set nearly every punting record in the franchise’s history.</strong></span></p><span class="image image-framed image-left image-tilt-left" style="width: 40%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><img src="https://run.imgix.net/f82c4b48-82c5-4a67-a75b-dba85d859b7b/51840de1-36bd-431f-8957-2d71e5e6e751/51840de1-36bd-431f-8957-2d71e5e6e751.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C600%2C400&amp;w=1500" alt="Chris Kluwe speaking to group of people in Minnesota" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Though Chris’s career on the field made him a household name, it’s his courage and passion to stand up for people that sets him apart. <strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">He became one of the first active NFL players to publicly champion marriage equality, </strong>authoring a widely shared open letter and later contributing to a Supreme Court amicus brief challenging California’s Proposition 8. After retiring from football, Chris continued his advocacy as a local football coach, writer, and speaker, publishing essays, op-eds, and books that highlight the importance of empathy, fairness, and standing up for what’s right.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Chris has not shied away from standing up for his community here in Orange County. Earlier this year, he was arrested at a Huntington Beach City Council meeting</strong> for peacefully protesting the council’s extreme and divisive efforts to politicize the city’s library, underscoring the need for leaders who will work tirelessly to defend the rights of all, protect democratic values, and focus on the issues that matter to working families.</span></p><span class="image image-framed image-left image-tilt-left" style="width: 40%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><img src="https://run.imgix.net/f82c4b48-82c5-4a67-a75b-dba85d859b7b/b5b83761-f536-4486-9d56-ba0fdffd9e07/b5b83761-f536-4486-9d56-ba0fdffd9e07.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=1934%2C1446%2C4832%2C3827&amp;w=1500" alt="Chris Kluwe standing alongside his wife and two children" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Now, Chris is running for State Assembly to continue being a fearless voice who fights for people, not politics or special interests. He believes Sacramento should work like a referee that ensures a level playing field—expanding opportunity, protecting our freedoms, and tackling the challenges of affordability, housing, healthcare, education, and climate change with the urgency and attention it deserves. Chris is not a career politician, but a neighbor and advocate who understands the importance of listening and putting people first.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Chris and his wife, Isabel, have lived in Huntington Beach for more than two decades. Together they are raising their two children, Ace and Remy, who attend local public schools.</span></p>

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<p>Expanding the utilization of clean energy and building resilient communities to bring down household costs and reduce California’s carbon footprint, as well as protecting the beaches and nature reserves Orange County residents love so much.</p>

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<p>"Chris Kluwe, the former NFL punter who seized national attention when he was arrested during a Huntington Beach City Council meeting, will run for the 72nd Assembly District seat.</p><p>Although there have been consistent pleas from people he’s met over the last several months since that City Council meeting to run for public office, Kluwe said he’s been reluctant to become a politician." -<a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2025/06/20/ex-nfl-player-chris-kluwe-once-arrested-at-a-huntington-beach-council-meeting-will-run-for-california-assembly-seat/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>OC REGISTER</em></a></p>

<h4>Chris Kluwe, once arrested at a Huntington Beach Council meeting, will run for Assembly</h4>

<p>"President Donald Trump declared on Friday that NFL team owners should fire any 'son of a bitch' who doesn't stand for the national anthem — an apparent reference to Colin Kaepernick, who kneeled to the flag in a political protest last year.</p><p>Former player Chris Kluwe didn't hide his criticism." -<a href="https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/amberjamieson/nfl-players-react-to-trump" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>BUZZFEED NEWS</em></a></p>

<h4>Here's How NFL Players Are Reacting To Trump's "Son Of A Bitch" Comment</h4>

<p>Promoting the safe, ethical deployment of artificial intelligence in our schools and workplaces, and protecting residents' private information and data from corporate and government misuse.</p>

<h2>A.I. Regulation</h2>

<p><em>Press Contact: Contact@KluweOC.com</em></p><p>Huntington Beach, CA— Chris Kluwe, long-time Orange County resident, former Minnesota Vikings player, author, father, and longtime advocate for civil rights, officially launched his campaign today to become the next Assemblymember for California’s 72nd Assembly District, encompassing the communities of Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, and Aliso Viejo.<strong><br></strong></p><p>With incumbent Assemblywoman Diane Dixon’s announcement that she will not run for re-election, voters will have the opportunity in November 2026 to chart a new path forward for the district.<strong><br></strong></p><h5>“I'm tired of watching politicians fumble on problem after problem,” Kluwe, a Democrat, said. “I’m ready to kickstart change in Sacramento to start tackling the issues that residents care about. We deserve a government that has a team mentality and actually works for ALL of us. In Sacramento, I’ll defend public schools, expand affordable housing, protect reproductive rights, champion climate action, and start pushing conversations on A.I. regulation that Sacramento has ignored.”<br></h5><h5>“From children to seniors, many in our communities are struggling under the chaos perpetuated by MAGA extremists at the local and national levels,” Kluwe continued. “Orange County residents want, and deserve, leaders in public office who have the courage to do the right thing for their constituents, not just when it is politically convenient, and I have proven multiple times I am willing to fight when a fight is required, regardless of the cost to myself. That is my commitment to the people of Assembly District 72.”<br></h5><p>The son of a local energy and refinery project manager, Kluwe grew up in a middle-class family in Seal Beach. He attended public school from kindergarten through college in Southern California, developing a fearless sense of leadership both in the classroom and on the football field. As he continued his football career at UCLA, where he graduated with a double major in History and Political Science, and later as a professional NFL punter for the Minnesota Vikings from 2005 to 2012, Kluwe would use those leadership skills to forcefully advocate for strong collective bargaining rights, equitable pay, free expression, and LGBTQ+ rights.<strong><br></strong></p><p>Since retiring from the NFL, Chris has raised a family in Huntington Beach, coached local high school football, authored multiple books, and has even published a board game. However, his passion for ethics and public transparency has never subsided, as evidenced by his recent opposition to the Huntington Beach City Council’s reckless spending and extremist book-banning.<strong><br></strong></p><p>As a father and community leader, Kluwe shares Orange County residents’ concerns about the rising cost-of-living and growing barriers to affordable homeownership in Orange County.<strong><br></strong></p><h5>“The Orange County that I grew up in, where working- and middle-class families could afford to live, is rapidly turning into a distant memory,” Kluwe said. “Every resident should have the same opportunities to succeed that I had as a child. We must find innovative solutions to bring down essential costs, such as housing, transportation, groceries, utilities, healthcare, and childcare.”<br></h5><p>Kluwe’s campaign will center on solutions critical to protecting and growing the California Dream for every resident, including:</p><ul><li><p>Affordable Housing: Accelerating the construction of new homes through smart zoning reform and public investment, as well as a commitment to streamlining the home-building process through consolidation of multiple agencies and regulations into a cohesive whole.</p></li><li><p>Education: Fully funding public schools and ensuring equitable access to quality education for all students.</p></li><li><p>Climate Action: Expanding the utilization of clean energy and building resilient communities to bring down household costs and reduce California’s carbon footprint, as well as protecting the beaches and nature reserves Orange County residents love so much.</p></li><li><p>LGBTQ+ and Civil Rights: Defending the rights of all Californians against unnecessary government overreach and fighting back against the rising extremism threatening to destroy our common democracy and the ideals on which this country was founded.</p></li><li><p>A.I. Regulation: Promoting the safe, ethical deployment of artificial intelligence in our schools and workplaces, and protecting residents' private information and data from corporate and government misuse.<strong><br></strong></p></li></ul><h5>“Our campaign is not ‘politics as usual,’” Kluwe added. “Whether you are a Democrat, Republican, or somewhere in-between, is irrelevant to me. We all want innovative change that creates better, safer, and stronger communities. I look forward to talking to voters across the political spectrum, finding common ground, and bringing vital change to Orange County.”<br></h5><p style="text-align: center;">###</p>

<p>Chris Kluwe, long-time Orange County resident, former Minnesota Vikings player, author, father, and longtime advocate for civil rights, officially launched his campaign today to become the next Assemblymember for California’s 72nd Assembly District, encompassing the communities of Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, and Aliso Viejo.</p>

<h4>Former NFL Player &amp; OC Community Leader Chris Kluwe Launches Campaign for State Assembly District 72</h4>

<p>"Kluwe, who has been critical of Republicans' 'fascism' as well as Democrats' inaction, says that it's 'a very welcome sign' to see the recent push back against the Trump Administration, particularly from elected officials. As a 'peaceful, law abiding citizen,' Kluwe says 'I don't really want to be doing these things — I want you to do your job.'" -<a href="https://www.advocate.com/news/chris-kluwe-pride-flag-arrest-update" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>THE ADVOCATE</em></a></p>

<h4>Chris Kluwe got arrested protesting MAGA. He's still protesting because 'it's the right thing to do'</h4>

<p>"A former punter for the Minnesota Vikings, Kluwe found himself in the middle of a media firestorm as the debate over same-sex marriage raged in 2013. A staunch supporter of equality, the athlete penned a letter admonishing Maryland delegate Emmett C. Burns Jr. for his chastising of Baltimore Ravens linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, himself an outspoken advocate for LGBT rights." <em>-</em><a href="https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-lists/taking-a-stand-10-of-the-nfls-most-notable-activists-and-advocates-199042/chris-kluwe-2-199264/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>ROLLING STONE</em></a></p>

<h4>Taking a Stand: 10 of the NFL's Most Notable Advocates and Activists</h4>

<p>"Kluwe is not a one-trick pony. He’s taken on various issues, from the football-centric (punter Ray Guy’s omission from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the last NFL lockout and concussions, to name a few) to personal freedoms in American society.</p><p>The topic of gay rights has been on the forefront, however, because it’s an issue not only in professional sports locker rooms, but for the nation." <em>-</em><a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2014/01/10/chris-kluwe-the-candid-crusader/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>OC REGISTER</em></a></p>

<h4>Chris Kluwe, the candid crusader</h4>

<p><strong>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</strong></p><p><strong>February 2, 2025</strong></p><p><strong>Contact: Natalie Betanco, </strong><a href="mailto:natalie@bergmannzwerdling.com"><strong>natalie@bergmannzwerdling.com</strong></a></p><h5 style="text-align: center;">Chris Kluwe Emerges as the Strongest Democrat Poised to Flip Assembly District 72</h5><h5 style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>With broad labor backing and support among key Democratic leaders, Kluwe campaign is building momentum in key open Orange County battleground district</em></strong></h5><p><br><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong>Huntington Beach, CA —</strong> Longtime civil rights advocate and retired NFL player Chris Kluwe has emerged as the strongest — and only — Democrat with the support, coalition, and resources necessary to flip California’s open 72nd Assembly District, one of the most competitive seats in Orange County and a key battleground in 2026.</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Since launching his campaign in the fall of 2025, Kluwe has consolidated support from Democratic leaders and labor unions across Orange County and California, earning endorsements from a broad coalition of workers, educators, and elected leaders who recognize both the urgency of this race and Kluwe’s ability to win.</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong>“SEIU California is endorsing Chris Kluwe because he refuses to accept a status quo where corporations make record profits while working families struggle to get by,”</strong> stated Catherine Hutchinson, President of SEIU Local 2579 and Executive Board Member of the SEIU California State Council. “Chris has shown time and again that he will stand up and challenge powerful interests, defend people who are being pushed aside, and fight for a more fair and accountable government. We know he’ll take that fight to Sacramento and stand up for workers every single day.”</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong>“Chris Kluwe is a fearless champion who stands up for people,” said Congressman Robert Garcia. </strong>“He understands that too often the system works for the wealthy and well-connected instead of everyday families. I’m proud to support Chris and look forward to partnering with him to fight for affordability, opportunity, and dignity for the communities we both serve.”</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong>“I’m endorsing Chris Kluwe for State Assembly because he represents the kind of honest, people-first leadership we need in Sacramento,” said Congressman Dave Min.</strong> “Orange County families deserve a leader who will fight for them — and Chris is ready to do just that.”</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong>“Service has always been at the heart of my life — whether in the Army, in the courtroom, or in my community — and it’s clear Chris Kluwe shares that value of service,”</strong> said Congressman Derek Tran. “He’s the kind of leader who stands up for people, not politics, and never backs down from doing what’s right. I'm excited to support his campaign for State Assembly because I know he’ll bring that same sense of duty to Sacramento.”</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Kluwe’s endorsement coalition includes major labor unions and Democratic leaders at every level of government, including:</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong>LABOR UNIONS</strong></span></p><ul><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">SEIU California</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">California Federation of Teachers</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">California Teachers Association</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">California State University Employees Union</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Laborers Local 652</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">ILWU Local 13</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">ILWU Local 63/Marine Clerks Association</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">International Union of Painters and Allied Trades DC 36</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Orange County Employees Association</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">SMART Local 105</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">UNAC/UHCP</span></p></li></ul><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong>STATE AND LOCAL ELECTED LEADERS</strong></span></p><ul><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Congressman Dave Min</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Congressman Derek Tran</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Congressman Mike Levin</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Congressman Robert Garcia</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Assembly Speaker Pro Team Josh Lowenthal</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Assemblymember Avelino Valencia</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Assemblymember Chris Ward</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Aliso Viejo Mayor Tiffany Ackley</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Laguna Niguel Councilmember Stephanie Oddo</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Former Huntington Beach City Councilmember Dan Kalmick</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Former Huntington Beach City Councilmember Rhonda Bolton</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Former Huntington Beach City Councilmember Kim Carr</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Ocean View School Board Trustee President Gina Clayton-Tarvin</span></p></li><li><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Coastline Community College Board Trustee Elizabeth Dorn Parker</span></p></li></ul><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Kluwe’s growing coalition of support was also solidified by the California Democratic Party’s endorsement process, where he recently earned 98% of the vote from party delegates, far exceeding the 70% threshold required to advance to the consent calendar for automatic endorsement at the upcoming state convention. The overwhelming support places Kluwe on track to become the officially endorsed candidate of the California Democratic Party and further underscores his strength as the clear Democratic nominee in Assembly District 72.</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">With Diane Dixon leaving office, the current Republican field represents a sharp contrast to Kluwe’s focus on standing up for all people and delivering for working families. One opponent, Huntington Beach City Councilmember Gracey Van Der Mark, has repeatedly <a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/gracey-van-der-mark-and-tito-ortiz-are-powering-the-wildest-huntington-beach-city-council-race-ever/" style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">aligned herself with far-right groups like the Proud Boys</a>, <a href="https://www.ocweekly.com/anti-defamation-league-joins-call-for-hb-finance-commissioners-removal-2/" style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">her extremist rhetoric has been condemned by the Anti Defamation League</a>, and she’s promoted lawsuits that have consistently failed in court while <a href="https://voiceofoc.org/2025/12/huntington-beach-continues-to-lose-lawsuits-arguing-charter-city-rights/" style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">costing local taxpayers millions of dollars in legal fees</a>. Another Republican candidate, Nick Taurus, is a <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2022/01/18/police-break-up-fracas-at-orange-county-republican-meeting/" style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">self-described white nationalist</a> with <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/07/13/white-supremacist-candidate-disrupted-katie-porter-event-history-violence/" style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">a documented history of racism and hate</a>.</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Assembly District 72 remains one of the most competitive legislative districts in California and one of the most winnable for Democrats. While Republicans maintain a registration edge (40% Republican, 32% Democratic, and 28% No Party Preference/other), recent election results show a clear shift toward Democratic candidates at the top of the ticket. Donald Trump carried the district by just 2.6 points in 2020 (50.4% to 47.8%), and by an even narrower margin in 2024 (49.9% to Kamala Harris’s 47.2%). These results underscore a growing coalition of Democratic, independent, and swing voters, and a clear path to victory for a Democrat with the name recognition, resources, and broad support to compete and win.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">###</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Chris Kluwe is a former Minnesota Vikings NFL player, author, and longtime Orange County resident who has built his life and career on standing up for people and doing what’s right. Both on and off the field, Chris has advocated for civil rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and transparency in local government. He grew up in Seal Beach, graduated from UCLA with a double major in History and Political Science, and now lives in Huntington Beach with his wife and two children.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Kluwe has coached high school football, volunteered with local organizations, and stood up against extremism, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/20/us/chris-kluwe-protest-arrested.html" style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">peacefully protesting and getting arrested at a Huntington Beach City Council meeting</a>. He is running for State Assembly to fight for strong schools, affordable housing, climate action, and commonsense leadership that puts people first.</span></p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">California’s 72nd Assembly District spans coastal and south Orange County, including the cities of Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Seal Beach, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, and Aliso Viejo. With Assemblymember Diane Dixon not seeking re-election, AD-72 is an open seat with registration trending Democratic recently (32% Democratic, 40% Republican, and 21% No Party Preference). The district is expected to be one of the most competitive legislative seats in Orange County in 2026.</span></p>

<p>Since launching his campaign in the fall of 2025, Kluwe has consolidated support from Democratic leaders and labor unions across Orange County and California, earning endorsements from a broad coalition of workers, educators, and elected leaders who recognize both the urgency of this race and Kluwe’s ability to win.</p>

<h4>Chris Kluwe Emerges as the Strongest Democrat Poised to Flip Assembly District 72</h4>

<p>"Yesterday, Chris Kluwe came to my class to chat about his days as a punter at UCLA, then for the Minnesota Vikings. Chris is just a really good dude. Honest. Earnest. Refreshingly nerdy and down to earth. There are no airs, no sense of entitlement. Again—a good dude.</p><p>Before class, we sat down for pizza, and chatted about his run against the out-of-her-mind Gracey Van Der Mark, who puts the Q in QAnon and the cashews in nuts.</p><p><a href="https://www.thetruthoc.com/p/chris-kluwe-has-some-stuff-to-say" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Here’s our conversation.</a>" -<a href="https://www.thetruthoc.com/p/chris-kluwe-has-some-stuff-to-say" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>THE TRUTH OC</em></a></p>

<h4>Chris Kluwe has some stuff to say</h4>

<p>"Pro football player, civil rights advocate and Internet gladiator Chris Kluwe is a high achiever, even when only considering his day job as a punter for the Minnesota Vikings. However, in the past year, Kluwe — for years a strong presence online — has used his notoriety, writing ability and often profane wit to dramatically shape social policy by waging a personal campaign against the proposed constitutional ban on gay marriage." -<a href="https://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/print-edition/2013/03/15/chris-klue-following-40-under-40-2013.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>MINNESOTA BUSINESS JOURNAL</em></a></p>

<h4>40 Under 40: Chris Kluwe, Minnesota Vikings</h4>

<h4>Canvassing Training and Launch</h4>

Canvassing Training and Launch

<p>"Outspoken Oakland Raiders punter and social activist Chris Kluwe has a much different outlook than the stereotypical NFL player. His philosophy, in part, is to 'try not to be like everybody else.'" -<a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2013/08/20/chris-kluwe-has-a-commitment-to-excellence/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>OC REGISTER</em></a></p>

<h4>Chris Kluwe has a commitment to excellence</h4>

<p>"On Tuesday's episode of her daytime talk show, Ellen DeGeneres says she's become a Minnesota Vikings fan, even though she also says the Green Bay Packers are one of her favorite teams.</p><p>The new fandom comes in response to punter Chris Kluwe's controversial recent letter detailing his stance on defending gay marriage." <em>-</em><a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/ellen-degeneres-praises-vikings-chris-kluwe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>CBS NEWS</em></a></p>

<h4>Ellen DeGeneres Praises Vikings' Chris Kluwe</h4>

<p>"Last week, Kluwe spoke out against a nod to the MAGA slogan popularized by President Donald Trump being featured on a commemorative plaque outside Huntington Beach Central Library.</p><p>After the speech, which was widely shared on social media, Kluwe engaged in what he called the “time-honored American tradition of peaceful civil disobedience” – approaching the council members sitting in front of him before being restrained by police." -<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/28/sport/chris-kluwe-maga-protest-spt-intl" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>CNN</em></a></p>

<h4>Ex-NFL punter Chris Kluwe says he was fired as a high school coach over MAGA plaque protest</h4>

<p>"Huntington Beach, a community often characterized as a stronghold of MAGA ideology in Southern California. It was here, during a heated City Council meeting, that Kluwe was arrested for doing what many would consider the most fundamental act in a democracy: speaking out.</p><p>'I went to the microphone to share concerns about the direction of the city and the silencing of dissent,' Kluwe told LA Progressive. 'Apparently, that was enough to get me arrested.'” -<a href="https://www.laprogressive.com/civil-liberties-and-civil-rights/chris-kluwe-speaking-truth-to-maga" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>LA PROGRESSIVE</em></a></p>

<h4>Speaking Truth in MAGA Country: Chris Kluwe on Free Speech</h4>

<h4>Canvass Launch 8/15</h4>

Canvass Launch 8/15

<p>Defending the rights of all Californians against unnecessary government overreach and fighting back against the rising extremism threatening to destroy our common democracy and the ideals on which this country was founded.</p>

<h2>LGBTQ+ and Civil Rights</h2>

<p>Accelerating the construction of new homes through smart zoning reform and public investment, as well as a commitment to streamlining the home-building process through consolidation of multiple agencies and regulations into a cohesive whole.</p>

<h2>Affordable Housing</h2>

<p>"Chris Kluwe exemplifies the engaged civil disobedience we desperately need in this time." -<a href="https://newrepublic.com/article/199781/former-nfl-player-embodies-rage-trump-resistance" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>THE NEW REPUBLIC</em></a></p>

<h4>The Former NFL Player Who Embodies the Rage of the Trump Resistance</h4>

<p>"Kluwe, a straight man, says his outspoken support of same-sex marriage cost him his job.</p><p>'In my mind, there's no logical conclusion that can be drawn, other than that I was fired for my activism,' Kluwe tells Michel Martin, host of NPR's <em>Tell Me More</em>." -<a href="https://www.npr.org/2014/01/07/260455843/former-vikings-player-chris-kluwe-shares-his-definition-of-bigotry" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>NPR</em></a></p>

<h4>Chris Kluwe On What Cost Him His Job With The Minnesota Vikings</h4>

<p>"There is not another player in the NFL quite like Chris Kluwe. " -<a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/news/vikings-kluwe-marches-own-tune-165900937--nfl.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAALkGmGnI5JT_wptzin2tPtdmJ0zk7p_BOzLIC8BqDlnjictZoBLnxunnsmq7vRUV7SkgpAlyCS7zaoVfFhZoftjEENHbdvl4lxYjI6coDkeCcUCnbpegcK-t99qrCpNx6JVQU394KcxuH6f_uEUB9Yb7g8Bmp_Bh_ea8iK5x_R4c" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>YAHOO SPORTS</em></a></p>

<h4>Vikings' Kluwe marches to his own tune</h4>

<p>"Of his own protest and arrest, Kluwe added, 'This is something that I feel our Democratic officials should be doing and they’re not doing it. So if they’re not doing it, somebody’s got to step up. And if I’m in a position where I can step up, I’ve got to do it.’" -<a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2025/02/20/chris-kluwe-arrest-maga-protest-city-council-meeting/79337534007/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>USA TODAY</em></a></p>

<h4>Chris Kluwe isn't backing down after arrest for MAGA protest. 'Somebody's got to step up'</h4>

<p>Funding public schools fully and ensuring equitable access to quality education for every student in Orange County and California.</p>

<h2>Public Education</h2>

<p>"Former NFL punter Chris Kluwe made national headlines more than a decade ago for his vocal support of same-sex marriage while playing for the Minnesota Vikings.</p><p>This week, the Orange County native garnered attention closer to home when he railed against a “MAGA” acrostic plaque that’s set to be placed outside the Huntington Beach Central Library in celebration of its 50th anniversary." -<a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-02-20/ex-nfl-player-chris-kluwe-explains-why-he-got-arrested-over-huntington-beach-maga-library-plaque" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>LA TIMES</em></a></p>

<h4>Ex-NFL player Chris Kluwe explains why he got arrested protesting Huntington Beach MAGA library sign</h4>

<p>"Kluwe, who punted in Minnesota for eight seasons, took the podium during Tuesday night's public comment section of the Huntington Beach City Council meeting, expressing his opposition to the city honoring Trump." -<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/former-nfl-punter-chris-kluwe-arrested-anti-trump-protest-city-council-rcna192978" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>NBC NEWS</em></a></p>

<h4>Former NFL punter Chris Kluwe arrested over anti-Trump protest at city council meeting</h4>

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Endorsements

We are strongly supporting

Chris Kluwe for State Assembly

LABOR UNIONS

ORGANIZATIONS

FEDERAL, STATE, AND REGIONAL ELECTED LEADERS

Dave Min

Congressman

Derek Tran

CONGRESSMAN

Lou Correa

Congressman

Mike Levin

CONGRESSMAN

Robert Garcia

CONGRESSMAN

Rob Bonta

CA ATTORNEY GENERAL

Josh Lowenthal

ASSEMBLY SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE

Colonel Tom Umberg (Ret.)

STATE SENATOR

Lena Gonzalez

STATE SENATOR

Sasha Renée Pérez

state senator

Avelino Valencia

ASSEMBLYMEMBER

Cottie Petrie-Norris

ASSEMBLYMEMBER

Chris Ward

ASSEMBLYMEMBER

Sharon Quirk-Silva

Assemblymember

José Luis Solache

Assemblymember

Vicente Sarmiento

County supervisor

Local Elected Officials