Ose, Johnson claim newspaper endorsements

Two candidates running in June 3 primary races are hawking newspaper endorsements today.

Republican Doug Ose, running for the Roseville-area seat of retiring U.S. Rep. John Doolittle, has won the endorsement of the Auburn Journal, a Gold Country daily.

"During these challenging times, we need a leader who can represent and unite the entire 4th District. Out of the four seeking election on the Republican primary ballot, Doug Ose is the best choice," the paper said.

In the race for Sacramento mayor, Kevin Johnson won the endorsement of the weekly Sacramento Union.

“Sacramento has found a mayoral candidate who is prepared to lead—homegrown athlete, education visionary, community activist and philanthropist Kevin Johnson. We are proud to endorse him for mayor,” the paper said.

Johnson, a former professional basketball player, is facing off against incumbent Heather Fargo. Ose, meanwhile, is running in a heated primary against state Senator Tom McClintock.