Councilwoman Suja Lowenthal has endorsed James Johnson in the 7th District City Council race.
"James is a leader with the knowledge, energy and commitment to unleash the magnificent potential of our community," Lowenthal said in a statement released by the Johnson campaign. "I am pleased to endorse him and I look forward to working with him towards a better Long Beach."
Johnson, the assistant city auditor, is challenging incumbent Councilwoman Tonia Reyes Uranga in the April 13 election. If elected, Johnson would relinquish his position in the auditor's office.
Uranga, in accordance with city election law, is running a write-in campaign for a third term. Her name will not appear on the ballot unless she receives enough votes to qualify for a runoff.
Also in the race are Jill Hill, co-president of the Wrigley Area Neighborhood Alliance, and Jack Smith, who works as a Hollywood line producer and is a local homeless and housing advocate.
Uranga's husband, Roberto Uranga, was initially in the race but pulled out, citing commitments related to his other elected office, the Long Beach City College Board of Trustees.
The 7th District includes the Wrigley District, and California Heights and the Westside.
The candidates in the race will square off in a debate at 7 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Veteran's Park Social Hall, 101 E. 28th St. Wrigley area community leader Alan Tolkoff will moderate.
