Image courtesy of Dave Bass for Superior Court Judge

ROSEVILLE, CA (MPG) - In a shocking development, the United Public Employees (UPE), representing Placer County’s Court Clerks, Reporters and Employees, have taken the unprecedented step of endorsing a judicial candidate challenging a sitting judge.

The UPE endorsed Deputy D.A. Dave Bass, who is challenging appointed incumbent Leon Dixson. Dixson was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2024.

“This campaign is so important that we felt compelled to make the public aware of our choice,” said UPE Board Chair Renee Graham.  “Dave Bass is the only candidate with the judicial temperament, demeanor and knowledge required to sit on the bench.”

“This endorsement is extremely meaningful, as these are the dedicated employees who day in and day out make sure the wheels of justice keep turning,” said Dave Bass, a prosecutor who has served as a Deputy District Attorney in both Placer and Sacramento counties, as well as a Deputy Attorney General for the State of California. 

“It is unheard of, and extremely brave, for court clerks and court reporters to oppose a sitting judge,” said Bass’s campaign consultant Dave Gilliard. “This endorsement only serves to confirm the deep concerns we have heard time and time again from those who serve in the public safety and criminal justice community in Placer County.”

For more information about Dave Bass for Superior Court Judge, please visit www.BassForJudge.com.

Dave Bass is an experienced prosecutor, having served as a California Deputy Attorney General and a Deputy District Attorney for both Placer and Sacramento counties. As a Prosecutor, Bass has worked closely with victims and law enforcement to put dangerous criminals behind bars while ensuring that the constitutional rights of crime victims, and of the accused, are upheld.

Bass is running for Superior Court Judge against Leon Dixson, who was appointed to the bench by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2024.