The late Supervisor John Benoit knew that Jan Harnik was the right person to succeed him to deal with the major issues the county is facing.

That's why, in his final days, he wrote to to Governor Jerry Brown:

“ … When the time comes, I respectfully request you consider my recommendation of a highly qualified Coachella Valley leader to serve the remainder of my term on the Riverside County Board of Supervisors. Jan Harnik, the mayor of Palm Desert, possesses the qualifications, skills and character necessary to represent the Fourth District and continue Riverside County’s tradition of excellence and service to our communities.”