At our club meeting on Tuesday, February 24, we welcomed Randall Putz, Mayor of Big Bear Lake and candidate for Assembly District 34, who spoke on “Bridging the Divide, Staying Safe and Sane in a Polarized World.” A self-described recovering Republican, Randall acknowledged the deep divisions and tension many feel, even sharing that he has heard, “I don’t shake hands with fascists,” while urging us to consider whether new approaches rooted in listening and genuine dialogue might help move us forward. Drawing on 18 years of local leadership, he emphasized self-awareness and resisting the forces that keep communities divided, noting that while we may not bridge every divide, bridging more of them strengthens our neighborhoods. Members were eager to engage, asking about his platform and priorities for the district. In discussing his priorities, Randall said California, as the fourth largest economy in the world, can lead on protecting civil liberties and advancing fair immigration policy, while also tackling housing affordability, homelessness, rural healthcare access, and exploring universal healthcare solutions, expressing confidence that his regional experience will help him deliver results in Sacramento. The Mountain Bears Democratic Club is proud to endorse Randall Putz for Assembly District 34.