Moorlach announces run for state Senate

Former Orange County Supervisor John Moorlach announced Wednesday that he intends to run for the state Senate.

Moorlach, who had been mulling the decision for the past several weeks, is seeking the 37th Senate District seat vacated by Mimi Walters (R-Laguna Niguel), who was elected last year to the 45th Congressional District. The special election is scheduled for March 17.

The 59-year-old Costa Mesa resident was termed-out Jan. 5 after serving two four-year terms on the Board of Supervisors representing the 2nd District.

Assemblyman Don Wagner (R-Irvine) of the 68th District is also running for the state Senate seat. He has Walters’ endorsement.

Moorlach did not publicize any endorsements Wednesday.

Moorlach, a Republican and certified public accountant, alluded in a news release to his warning 20 years ago that the county was facing bankruptcy because of risky investments gone sour. Indeed, in December 1994, the county said it was unable to meet all of its payroll obligations.

“Just like Orange County was 20 years ago, our state is on shaky financial ground, and it’s time we got our fiscal house in order,” Moorlach said in the release. “Our economy will thrive when California gets serious about eliminating its wall of debt and huge unfunded liabilities. That must be the Legislature’s No. 1 focus.”

He began his political career in 1995 as the Orange County treasurer-tax collector, a position he held for 12 years. During that time he helped the county emerge from Chapter 9 bankruptcy. He was elected supervisor in 2006.

Michelle Steel, formerly of the state Board of Equalization, was elected last year to replace Moorlach. She soundly defeated Assemblyman Allan Mansoor (R-Costa Mesa) by a roughly 60-40 margin.

The 37th District includes Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach and portions of Huntington Beach.