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Willie McGinest, Long Beach City legend, announced his endorsement of City Councilwoman Suzie Price for Long Beach City Mayor.
The endorsement comes on the heels of Price earning the endorsements of the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 47, California State Controller Betty Yee, State Senator Tom Umberg, and Assemblymember Patrick O’Donnell. Price recently reported raising $400,000 in just twelve weeks, highlighting the strength and enthusiasm in her broad coalition of support.
“I am excited to support Suzie Price’s campaign for Mayor of Long Beach,” says McGinest. “Anyone who is from Long Beach knows how great of a City we live in. Suzie Price understands that Long Beach is special, and provides great resources for residents to build a life. Suzie has overcome many obstacles in her life, and has learned that it takes work and unity to create change. Her beliefs and views align with what this City needs, and she has the work ethic to get this City in order, tackle large issues, and get things done. Suzie cares about every resident in this city, regardless of their background. She is the right person to bring everyone together and create change.”
Willie McGinest is a former American football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 15 seasons, primarily with the New England Patriots. He played college football at the University of Southern California and was selected fourth overall by the Patriots in the 1994 NFL draft. During his 12 seasons with the team, he was named to two Pro Bowls and won three Super Bowl titles. For his accomplishments in New England, he was inducted to the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2015. McGinest grew up in Long Beach, California, and attended Long Beach Polytechnic High School, and continues to be involved in the Long Beach community. He established the Willie McGinest Freedom School, a program which aims to provide social and cultural enrichment for neighborhood youth. On May 3, 2005, the City Council of Long Beach declared that every year, May 3 will be recognized as Willie McGinest Day in recognition of his charitable efforts and civic involvement.
“I am grateful to have Willie McGinest’s support in my race to become the next Mayor of Long Beach,” says Price. “Willie grew up in Long Beach and has carried his pride for this City throughout his career in the NFL. Like me, he appreciates the diversity of this great City, and understands how important it is to foster a strong sense of community among our youth. He trusts my plan to strengthen our community through solving key issues facing the City, and I look forward to taking inspiration from him as I embark on this new journey in leadership.”
