Mendoza Tells San Diego Chapter of CPCU ‘You’re a Very Effective Voice’

Republican California Insurance Commissioner candidate Gary Mendoza addressed several dozen members of the San Diego Chapter of CPCU Sept. 18, telling them that they are an effective voice, and that while they may disagree with some decisions he makes if elected in November, they and all in the industry will know why he made them.

Mendoza, who is opposing Democratic challenger and former commissioner John Garamendi, has, according to a recent Field Poll, pulled within five points of his challenger.

“There are many problems we face here in California,” Mendoza told his audience. “The workers’ comp market is falling apart and businesses are leaving California at an alarming rate. When I’m elected commissioner, I’ll fight for two things—those workers who are legitimately injured and those people paying the bills.”

Mendoza also addressed a number of other issues the industry and both agents and brokers are facing including healthcare, time delays in filings and applications, and insurance in the housing industry.

“In many cases, it is hard to get insurance,” Mendoza remarked. “We need to reverse the current trend of customers chasing companies. We need more companies writing business in the state.”

Mendoza also touched on the fervor over mold, noting, “Fear and greed are driving mold. We need more science and less litigation.”

One audience member expressed the frustration with the time it takes for filings and applications, with Mendoza noting that “We definitely need to correct some of the problems in the Department (CDI) when it comes to filings and applications.”

Finally, Mendoza took some time to comment on his opponent, stating, “He (Garamendi) is an ideal opponent. He carries a lot of baggage with him.”

Editor’s note: Look for a one-on-one interview with Gary Mendoza in the Oct. 14 issue of Insurance Journal West.

Topics California