Bonnie Dumanis confirmed today that she plans to seek a fourth term as San Diego County's top prosecutor, while a veteran lawyer filed papers that will allow him to explore whether to become her first challenger.
A Dumanis campaign spokeswoman sent City News Service a statement that announced the district attorney's plans.
"I'm very proud of what we've accomplished in the D.A.'s office during my tenure, including maintaining one of the highest conviction rates in the state of California,'' said Dumanis, who was first elected in 2002. "In my next term, I look forward to working with our extraordinary team to pursue justice and put even more innovative crime prevention programs in place to keep our neighborhoods safer.''
Dumanis has twice been reelected without opposition. However, she ran a sluggish campaign for San Diego mayor last year and came in fourth in the June primary election, despite dozens of high-profile endorsements.
In her statement, she said she is focused on her work to protect the public since the election is more than one year away.
The challenge could come from trial lawyer Robert Brewer, who is currently in private practice. He said he filed the necessary paperwork to look into whether to mount a challenge.
Brewer, 66, used to be a state and federal prosecutor and was a decorated Army paratrooper in the Vietnam War.
"San Diego County residents deserve a district attorney who will effectively prosecute criminals, put ethics and fairness ahead of politics in the justice system, and be fully committed to the office of district attorney,'' Brewer said. "While I anticipate making a formal announcement of candidacy later this year, I have begun securing endorsements and raising the considerable funds necessary to compete successfully in a county that has a population larger than 12 states.''
The Del Mar resident, who is married to U.S. District Judge Irma Gonzalez, said he has received positive feedback from community leaders, current and former prosecutors, and law enforcement and legal professionals.
