The race for California’s 44th Congressional District is heating up as the Bill Hedrick for Congress campaign opens a regional campaign office in South Orange County.

Hedrick, who almost defeated incumbent Republican Congressman Ken Calvert in 2008, is expanding his campaign operation by opening a field office in San Clemente on Thursday. The first campaign for the 44th Congressional District to open an office in Orange County, the campaign’s second office will hone voter outreach efforts in San Clemente as well as other Orange County communities such as Coto de Caza, San Juan Capistrano and Ladera Ranch.

The 44th Congressional District covers a portion of Riverside County, including the cities of Corona, Norco and Riverside, and stretches west to include a portion of South Orange County. The campaign’s headquarters is located in Riverside.

“In 2008 I spoke with thousands of Orange County voters at their doorsteps and I’m very excited about an expanded effort to do that again this year,” Hedrick said. “My campaign will leave no community behind as we get closer to Election Day.”

The Hedrick for Congress’ San Clemente office will hold a grand opening on Thursday evening at 6:30 pm and is located at 125 W. El Portal, San Clemente, CA 92672.

Bill Hedrick has dedicated 35 years to teaching our children and advocating for educators in our public schools. He currently serves on the Corona-Norco Unified School District Board of Education, overseeing the 8th largest school district in California, serving 53,000 students. Bill is the board’s longest serving member at 22 years and has served five terms as president. In 2008, he came with 3,100 votes of defeating Congressman Ken Calvert, making the 2010 rematch for California’s 44th Congressional District one of the most competitive in the state.