Santa Cruz, CA – Former State Controller Steve Westly endorsed Emily Reilly for State Assembly today, citing her strong record on environmental issues.

“Emily Reilly has a proven record of accomplishment combating global warming and protecting our coast,” Westly said. “California needs more leaders like Emily. She will be a great member of the Assembly.

Prior to founding The Westly Group, a leading clean technology venture capital firm, Steve Westly served as the Controller and Chief Fiscal Officer of the state of California. Before running for office, Mr. Westly helped guide the online auction company eBay through its period of most rapid growth, serving as the Senior Vice President of Marketing, Business Development, M&A and International. Westly ran for Governor of California in 2006.

“I am honored to receive Steve Westly’s endorsement,” said Reilly. “He has been a leader when it comes to protecting the environment and confronting the challenges of global warming. I look forward to working with him to help bring green technology jobs to the 27th District when I am in the State Assembly.”

Reilly has received a number of high-profile endorsements, including those of California Lieutenant Governor John Garamendi; Board of Equalization Chair Betty Yee; the California Nurses Association; the California League of Conservation Voters; the Women’s Political Committee; Democratic Activists for Women Now; Carpenters Local 505; United Transportation Union Local 23; the Santa Cruz Police Officers Association; the GLBT Alliance, Vote the Coast and a wide range of community leaders.

Reilly is a member of the Santa Cruz City Council, the owner of a local bakery, Emily's Good Things to Eat, and a former two-term Mayor. The Assembly seat is currently held by John Laird, who is termed out in January 2009.