Bakersfield Businessman and former Republican Assembly candidate Stan Ellis has endorsed Ken Mettler for California State Assembly.

Ellis, who ran for Assembly in the Republican primary in 2006 against Assemblywoman Jean Fuller, is owner of the Bakersfield Jam and several other local businesses.

"Ken Mettler is a strong candidate who will fight for the things that I care about - less regulations, lower taxes and real accountability to the voters who put you there in the first place," said Ellis. "Ken will provide principled representation for our community. I intend to support Ken all the way in order to gain a real fighter for us in Sacramento."

Mettler, a local home builder and Kern High School District Trustee, has filed a notice of intention to run for the 32nd Assembly District seat in the June 2010 Republican Primary. The seat is currently held by Fuller.

"I am honored to have the support of Stan Ellis, a respected, brilliant businessman and community supporter," said Mettler.

Dr. Harold Pease of Taft College announced earlier this week that he will be a candidate for Assembly.