John Peschong to run for San Luis Obispo County supervisor

John Peschong plans to run for the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors seat being vacated by Frank Mecham of Paso Robles.

He has not yet formed a political campaign but said he plans to do so Monday. Peschong, a Republican strategist, said he wants to run for the seat in order to keep it in the hands of a conservative. Mecham announced he would not seek re-election in March.

“I believe that the voters in the 1st Supervisor District want someone who supports smaller, more efficient government, lower taxes and personal freedom, and I believe I am that person,” Peschong said.

Peschong declined to give further details about his campaign, saying he wanted to wait until he has officially launched his campaign.

Peschong will become the fifth candidate for Mecham’s seat.

John Hamon, a Paso Robles city councilman, announced his candidacy in April. Others who have since announced their candidacy are Paso Robles Mayor Steve Martin, San Miguel Community Services District Director Anthony Kalvans and Dale Gustin of Paso Robles. The 1st District seat represents much of the North County.

Peschong served in President Ronald Reagan’s administration and as a senior strategist for the campaigns of President George W. Bush. He is a founding partner of Meridian Pacific Inc., a public relations and affairs company, and serves as chairman of the San Luis Obispo County Republican Party. He lives in Templeton.

Peschong has written a semimonthly conservative political column for The Tribune, alternating with liberal columnist Tom Fulks. His column will no longer appear after Sunday now that he is running for supervisor.

This story was originally published November 25, 2015 at 4:58 PM with the headline "John Peschong to run for San Luis Obispo County supervisor."