While the race in the 18th Assembly District may not be the sexiest election contest this November, the seat recently has drawn some national, big-name political heavyweights.

Former New Jersey governor and head of the Environmental Protection Agency Christie Todd Whitman appeared Wednesday at a $25-a-head breakfast in support of Jill Buck, the Republican candidate running for the Assembly seat representing Dublin , Hayward , San Leandro , Ashland , Cherryland, San Lorenzo, most of Castro Valley and Pleasanton , and part of Oakland .

"This is one of the most important levels of government," Whitman told thegathering of around 50 people at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. "It impacts people's lives. I'm delighted to be here to support Jill."

Whitman, a Republican, was the first female governor of New Jersey and was named head of the EPA in 2001. She left the organization in 2003 and founded "It's My Party Too," a national group advocating fiscal responsibility, individual rights and environmental protections.

Whitman flew from New Jersey on Tuesday night to appear at Buck's fundraiser. She said she supports Buck's candidacy because of Buck's commitment to the environment and willingness to work across party lines. Whitman also called her a proven leader.

Buck is the author of the Go Green initiative, which aims to reduce waste in schools and to teach students the importance of respecting the environment.

"This is a person you can trust will get things done," Whitman said.

Whitman also admitted that working across party lines may be important for Republicans. She said she doesn't expect a strong showing this fall from the Grand Old Party.

"This is going to be a tough year for Republicans," Whitman said. "I don't think there's any point in denying that."

Whitman said the message of "George Bush is president, George Bush is bad" that the Democrats have pounded home to voters looks to be effective, but she urged voters in the 18th Assembly District not to look just at party affiliation, but at the candidates as individuals.

That will be important if Buck is to win. The district, currently served by termed-out Assemblyman Johan Klehs, D-San Leandro, is made up of more than 50 percent Democrats. Less than a quarter of the district's registered voters are Republican.

That's why many think Buck's opponent, Democrat Mary Hayashi, will be tough to beat. Hayashi received the endorsement of a big political name herself last week when Tipper Gore, wife of former vice president and presidential candidate Al Gore, donated $2,500 to her campaign.