Simon sounds out Newport

Paul Clinton

Republican gubernatorial challenger Bill Simon Jr. emphasized his

pro-business platform, promised to roll back what he said were onerous

regulations and criticized Gov. Gray Davis’ handling of the energy crisis

and budget during a speech in Newport Beach on Thursday.

“I’m at the right place at the right time,” Simon told several hundred

business leaders at the exclusive Pacific Club. “It’s time for new

leadership.”

The investment banker-turned-politician will face Davis in the Nov. 5

election for the state’s top office.

Simon’s improbable rise to prominence began earlier this year, when he

began to gather steam in the race for his party’s nomination.

Republican voters chose him, during the March 5 primary, over former

Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan and Secretary of State Bill Jones.

Simon has worked to paint himself as a moderate choice. However, he

has earned the endorsements of the National Rifle Assn. and the

California ProLife Council, a group lobbying to outlaw abortion.

On Thursday night, Simon secured the approval of the local chapter of

the National Assn. of Industrial and Office Properties, the group

sponsoring the event.

“Bill Simon has put forth a common-sense plan that will encourage

California’s economy to begin moving forward,” said David Thurman, the

group’s president. “As a successful businessman, Bill Simon has a unique

understanding of the challenges businesses face.”

Simon spent a good deal of his 30-minute speech lambasting Davis for

his handling of the energy crisis. Simon said Davis has built up too much

debt and hasn’t adequately managed the state’s budget.

“We need to continue to talk about Gray Davis’ track record,” Simon

said. “This election is a referendum on him.”

The mainly male crowd in attendance clapped loudly at the end of

Simon’s speech. Daniel Winton, an attorney who lives in Newport Beach,

said he thought Simon’s message would reach moderate voters.

“I thought he was plain-talking and a welcome relief from what we hear

from Davis,” Winton said. “These are issues that would resonate.”

* Paul Clinton covers the environment, John Wayne Airport and

politics. He may be reached at (949) 764-4330 or by e-mail ato7

paul.clinton@latimes.comf7 .