Joe Simitian. The last of the great ones. He works hard on big issues, he understands what’s in his bills and he can throw a political elbow when needed.
-"Experts Expound" in The Capitol Weekly (Thursday, July 16, 2009)

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“Joe Simitian (is) one of the clearest-thinking, best prepared candidates of our acquaintance.” (11/5/00)
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“…a creative and independent thinker…in the top rank of candidates…” (10/20/00)
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“With supervisor Joe Simitian stepping down to run for the state Assembly, Santa Clara County’s board is losing its best analytical mind. Simitian, a maverick, will be a tough act to follow.” (2/6/00)
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“As Palo Alto’s Mayor for the past year, Joe Simitian hasn’t been the type to grab headlines with glitzy proposals or cheap shots at opponents. Instead, he has focused on making government work well.” (1/8/96)
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“Good ideas and the wherewithal to pursue them…” (10/22/91)

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“He’s incisive, innovative and a quick study…(with) strong leadership, problem-solving and communication skills.” (11/1/00)
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“Simitian has demonstrated his constant vigilance on budget-balancing and cost-saving issues…Most importantly, Simitian has demonstrated his ability to think creatively to come up with innovative approaches to old problems…” (3/20/96)
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“A model school board member…a true leader…a no-nonsense elected official who wants…to deal with the important issues…” (10/30/91)
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“Effective and hardworking...a sound, thoughtful approach...always well prepared and willing to listen...” (10/28/87)

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“Thirty-eight acres of coastal bluffs in Half Moon Bay have been spared from development and will remain open space…State Assemblyman Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) led the fight to preserve the area…” (11/2/01)
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“Supervisor Joe Simitian…has tried to ensure that his board hears from all sides…” (5/24/99)
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“Joe Simitian will tackle the county’s budget shortfall and help solve the problems plaguing public schools.” (10/29/96)

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“Simitian has a proven track record of protecting the environment.” (10/25/96)

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“Simitian is the right person to lead the charge for privacy rights in the Assembly…” (6/2/01)
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“Simitian…has a reputation as a problem solver and a leader.” (10/25/00)

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“Simitian...has shown he has the leadership skills to succeed…” (10/25/00)

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“Simitian…is clearly one of the valley’s brightest and most articulate public officials…he’ll make a fine addition to the Legislature…” (10/26/00)
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“Simitian has a keen grasp of the issues…” (10/31/96)

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“Joe Simitian has distinguished himself as a hard worker and a task-oriented politician who established a stellar track record and received almost universal praise while occupying the 5th district seat on the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors…We feel good about Joe Simitian – unlike some politicians, he rolls up his sleeves and gets to work.” (10/18/00)
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“Continually accountable…” (2/23/00)
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“Simitian is…capable, knowledgeable and highly intelligent.” (3/20/96)

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“Simitian…shows political adroitness, a desire to make government work well and a thoughtful approach to regional concerns.” (10/22/91)

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“(Simitian) has a reputation for action”(12/13/00)

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“Simitian...has become a popular and successful politician in part through making himself accessible to his local constituents even as he has risen to statewide office. Recently Simitian has begun conducting ‘sidewalk office hours,’ sessions in which he sets up a table at a public place and talks politics with whomever approaches him.” (10/5/01)
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“Keen ability to grasp complicated issues and articulate clear thoughtful responses…” (11/1/96)

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“(H)e’s detail-oriented. He’s always prepared. He gets energized about the important subjects…He strives to balance budgets and save tax dollars.” (11/2/00)
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“Simitian…listens to both sides and then isn’t afraid to make tough decisions.” (11/2/00)

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“He’s not your average Joe.” (December 2000)
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“Simitian is assured a seat in the Assembly, where he can continue his crusade to clean up the environment, expand health care access to low-income children and increase affordable housing.” (October 2000)

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“Simitian genuinely values bipartisanship and thoughtful public policy…” (2/19/01)

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“Intelligent and articulate…a major contributor…well versed in regional concerns.” (9/22/91)
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“Forward-looking and articulate…high-caliber leadership…” (10/21/87)
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“An exceptional record of volunteer service…” (10/31/83)