Farmer and tech entrepreneur Stan Ellis announced Wednesday that he will run in the special election for Assembly District 32 — the seat vacated by U.S. Congressman Vince Fong.

Ellis, a Republican, has already received backing from big names among Central Valley conservatives: Fong, Congressman David Valadao (R-Hanford), and former Congresswoman Connie Conway.

Ellis said he would work to reduce gas prices and the cost of living.

“We need strong voices in Sacramento who will fight back against these destructive policies and stand up for our values and our communities,” said Ellis in a statement. “I’m running to defend our way of life and address the real issues facing our Valley — securing our borders, protecting our water and energy resources, improving rural healthcare, and investing in our children’s future.”

Ellis Has Diverse Background: Ag to Quantum Computing

Ellis also received endorsements from state Sen. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) and newly elected Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo (R-Visalia). Several Kern County supervisors are endorsing Ellis, as is Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux.

A native South Dakotan, Ellis came to Kern County in 1975. He founded tech company Qubitekk, which focused its work on quantum physics technology, especially in the defense, finance, and energy sectors, according to a news release from IonQ, its soon-to-be parent company.

Qubitekk has worked with the departments of Energy and Defense to advance cybersecurity. It has also worked to innovate medical technologies

Maryland-based IonQ announced in November it would purchase Vista-based Qubitekk.

Ellis has also worked in the oil and agricultural industries. He was among numerous candidates who ran to replace former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. McCarthy resigned his longtime seat after being toppled as speaker in October 2023.

Special Primary Election in February, General in April

Assembly District 32 includes portions of Kern and Tulare counties. Fong vacated the seat after winning the elections for both the state Assembly and U.S. House of Representatives, replacing  McCarthy.

The primary election is Feb. 25, 2025. The general election would be held April 29.

Republicans hold a near two-to-one registration advantage in that district over Democrats, according to the Secretary of State’s Oct. 21 report.

Jan. 2, 2025, is the final day for candidates to file for the seat.