Hayes announces campaign for State Assembly District 40

Republican Rickey T. Hayes announced the launch of his campaign for California State Assembly in District 40, representing most of the Santa Clarita Valley and portions of the San Fernando Valley, focusing on restoring public safety, lowering the cost of living, and delivering real solutions for working families, said a news release from the candidate’s campaign.  

Hayes, a Marine Corps veteran, former law enforcement officer, and energy infrastructure leader, enters the race with a lifetime of service and hands-on experience solving real-world problems, the release said. He will challenge incumbent Democrat Pilar Schiavo, who Hayes says has become “increasingly out of touch with the working people of this district.” 

“For too long, Sacramento politicians like Pilar Schiavo have pushed policies that make life harder for families in Santa Clarita and the San Fernando Valley,” Hayes said in the release. “Rising crime, skyrocketing energy costs, and a cost of living that’s driving people out of California are the direct result of failed leadership. I’m running to bring common-sense solutions, accountability and a strong voice for the people who feel ignored.” 

For more than 13 years, Hayes and his wife, Dr. Priscilla Barbero, have called Santa Clarita home. They are parents and grandparents, and their daughter is currently serving in the United States military, the release said. 

Following his military service in the Marines, Hayes continued serving at home as a custody officer and later as a police officer, working to keep communities safe and uphold the rule of law, the release said, adding that his experience on the front lines of public safety has shaped his commitment to policies that support law enforcement and protect neighborhoods. 

After his time in uniform, Hayes built a career in the skilled trades as a journeyman lineman with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 47 before advancing into leadership roles in the energy sector.  

“As an energy infrastructure leader and executive, he has helped build, maintain, and modernize California’s power grid, ensuring reliable electricity for millions of residents and businesses while navigating the state’s complex regulatory environment,” the release said. 

“Sacramento doesn’t need more career politicians; it needs people who have actually done the work,” Hayes added in the release. “I’ve worn the uniform, I’ve protected our communities, and I’ve helped power this state. I know what it takes to get results, and I’ll fight every day to make California safer, more affordable, and more reliable for working families.” 

Hayes is one of three Republican candidates challenging Schiavo on the June 2 primary, in which the top two candidates, regardless of party, will advance to the November election. 

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