CA-08: Jay Obernolte (R)
PROFILE
About Obernolte:
Jay Obernolte has lived in California’s 8th Congressional District for over 25 years. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Caltech and a master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence from UCLA.
In 1990 Obernolte started FarSight Studios, a software development company, in his college dorm room. Since then, he has created hundreds of jobs and today, FarSight Studios employs dozens of residents of the 8th Congressional District. While running a successful business, Obernolte and his wife Heather also raised their two sons, Hale and Troy.
Obernolte also has 15 years of experience in public service. He was first elected to a local airport board in 2005, followed by four years of service on a city council and two terms as mayor of the City of Big Bear Lake. In 2014 he was elected to the California State Assembly.
As a state Assemblyman Obernolte has received awards from the California Small Business Association, the National Federation of Independent Business, and the American Society for Public Administration for his accomplishments. He has passed more legislation than any other current state lawmaker in the Inland Empire of either party, while simultaneously staying true to his values.
Obernolte is also a committed volunteer. He uses his pilot’s license to volunteer with the Veterans Airlift Command, providing free transportation to wounded and disabled veterans. He is also a 5th degree black belt in Pacific Unified Martial Arts and teaches self-defense to this day.