April 24, 2026

Huntington Beach, Calif. -- The latest campaign finance reports filed with the California Secretary of State’s office show an uncontested fundraising battle in the election for the 72nd Assembly District as former State Assemblyman Matt Harper raised less than the cost of a round trip ticket from Orange County to Sacramento.

Yesterday’s fundraising report showed that since the beginning of the year the Republican Party endorsed candidate, Gracey Van Der Mark, hauled in $133,000 while Matt Harper raised $755.00. The paltry amount proves Harper has little support.

The race to become the Republican nominee in the very right leaning Assembly District has become a one-sided affair as Gracey Van Der Mark now has the endorsement of every member of the Assembly Republican Caucus, The California Republican Party, The Republican Party of Orange County as well dozens of local elected officials.

A full endorsement list can be found at www.GraceyForAssembly.com.

About Gracey

Gracey Van Der Mark’s life embodies the American Dream. As the daughter of immigrants raised in a struggling Los Angeles neighborhood, she overcame adversity and emerged as a passionate advocate for her community. A survivor of domestic violence, Gracey rebuilt her life in Huntington Beach, where she and her husband, Pieter Van Der Mark, raised a blended family of seven children and now run a successful property management business.

Gracey is running to represent the 72nd Assembly District, currently held by Assemblywoman Diane Dixon, who is seeking a seat on the Orange County Board of Supervisors. Along with Seal Beach, the 72^nd Assembly District is home to the cities of Aliso Viejo, Huntington Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Beach, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, and Newport Beach.

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