Redding Councilwoman Tenessa Audette running for California Assembly

Just six months into her tenure as a Redding City Councilor, Tenessa Audette is running for state Assembly.

Audette, a Republican who his mayor pro tempore on the council, announced her candidacy Sunday.

Also running for District 1 Assembly are Redding City Councilor and Vice Mayor Mark Mezzano and Anderson City Councilor Melissa Hunt. Both are Republicans.

Rounding out the field so far is small business owner Heather Hadwick, a Republican from Modoc County. For nearly five years, she worked in Modoc County's office emergency services, according to her website.

The four are campaigning for the seat currently held by Megan Dahle.

In February, the Republican from Bieber sent out an email that said she will campaign for the state senate seat currently occupied by her husband, Brian Dahle.

Brian Dahle lost a bid for the California governor seat when he ran against incumbent Gavin Newsom in 2022. He has not announced future plans or next steps in his political career.

Audette is a field representative for Brian Dahle, whose field office is in downtown Redding.

“As a long-time advocate for North State communities, I have a deep understanding of our unique needs, challenges and opportunities. I’ll be your unwavering voice in Sacramento, prioritizing our interests and championing North State values,” Audette stated in a news release.

Shasta County Supervisor Mary Rickert is backing Audette.

“Tenessa is true to her word and has shown inspirational leadership skills on the Redding City Council,” Rickert said in a news release.

All the candidates for the District 1 Assembly seat vow to bring a strong North State voice to Sacramento.

At his campaign launch, Mezzano touted his law enforcement background as a retired California Highway Patrol sergeant.

Hunt points to her years of service for the city of Anderson. She has been on the City Council since 2007 and she taught school for 14 years prior to her career in government.

Audette was elected to the Redding City Council in November and was sworn in on Dec. 6. She was the second top vote getter behind Mayor Michael Dacquisto.

Mezzano was elected to the Redding City Council in 2020 and he was the top vote-getter that year. His seat will be on the November 2024 ballot.

David Benda covers business, development and anything else that comes up for the USA TODAY Network in Redding. He also writes the weekly "Buzz on the Street" column. He’s part of a team of dedicated reporters that investigate wrongdoing, cover breaking news and tell other stories about your community. Reach him on Twitter @DavidBenda_RS or by phone at 1-530-338-8323. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: Redding Councilwoman Tenessa Audette running for California Assembly