Press Releases

Former Republican Governor George Deukmejian today announced his endorsement of Steve Poizner to be the next governor of California. Deukmejian served two terms as governor of California from 1983 to 1991, enjoying the highest approval ratings of any California governor in the last 50 years. Retired from politics, Governor Deukmejian has chosen to publicly back Steve Poizner for governor in 2010 because he sees the qualities in Poizner that are needed to lead California out of a budget deficit, jumpstart economic growth, and bring jobs back to the state.

“California is governable, but it will take a strong, experienced leader like Steve Poizner to resolve the many economic challenges facing our state,” said Deukmejian. “I knew what was needed to pull California out of a major budget deficit and put people back to work, and I know that Steve Poizner possesses those skills. Steve is the only candidate in this race with the right mix of experience, leadership, and vision to lead California back to economic prosperity.”

Deukmejian’s support for Poizner is particularly relevant considering Deukmejian took office facing challenges similar to those that the next governor must overcome. When he took office in 1983, Deukmejian inherited from Jerry Brown a deficit of nearly 7 percent of the General Fund and an unemployment rate of 11 percent. Deukmejian created a balanced budget while refusing to raise taxes and instituting commonsense budget cuts.

Deukmejian’s policies worked, and according to California Field Poll statistics released in October 2009, Governor Deukmejian’s successful leadership earned him higher praise from California voters than any other governor over the past five decades. Deukmejian’s approval rating reached a high of 73 percent in August 1985 and never dropped below 53 percent at any point during his eight years in office.

“Governor Deukmejian showed true principle and vision in leading California out of economic crisis following Jerry Brown’s failed policies, and I am honored to have his endorsement,” said Poizner. “Governor Deukmejian is not only one of the most successful governors in our state’s history, but his firsthand knowledge of how to overcome the problems similar to what our state now faces is unmatched. I am grateful for his support and look forward to have his advice and counsel as I work to win my party’s nomination in June and to defeat Jerry Brown in November.”