Mark Ridley-Thomas (listed in Progressive Voters Guide)

No Recommendation

About the Candidate

Mark Ridley-Thomas, a career politician who has held many offices, is from Los Angeles. Ridley-Thomas’s stated priorities for his district this term include addressing the homelessness and affordable housing crises, reimagining public transit as fully electric and environmentally sustainable, and reforming the justice system with more rehabilitative alternatives to prison. He has secured more than $1 billion in County resources into the 10th District which was used to extend Metro transit lines, build affordable housing, develop and beautify parks and plant trees. Prior to serving on the Board of Supervisors, where he is completing his third term, Ridley-Thomas represented the 26th District in the California State Senate, chairing the California Legislative Black Caucus.

While Mark Ridley-Thomas has demonstrated an ability to deliver on many campaign promises to his district, such as ensuring the completion of the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital, his time in the public eye includes a number of scandals, largely having to do with inappropriate use of taxpayer money. In 2010 Ridley-Thomas spent $25,000 to place himself and fourteen other county officials in the Who's Who edition of Black Los Angeles. In 2018, Ridley-Thomas was put under federal criminal investigation for a $100,000 donation he made to USC, intended to be allocated to a think tank run by his son and resigned state assembly member Sebastian Ridley-Thomas.

Additionally, Mark Ridley-Thomas has accepted money from the fossil fuel industry, including E&B Natural Resources Management, which operates a drill site in his district. Due to his conflicted history as a public servant, we cannot recommend him for your progressive vote.

Mark Ridley-Thomas

About the Candidate

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Federal

President and Vice President

Democrat
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

Website Endorsements
Elect Vice President Joseph Biden as President of the United States to get America back on track.

About the Position

The President of the United States is the head of the Executive branch of the federal government, and the Commander-in-Chief for all branches of the armed forces. A president has the power to make diplomatic, executive, and judicial appointments, and can sign into law or veto legislation. Presidential administrations are responsible for both foreign and domestic policy priorities. Presidents are limited to serving two four-year terms in office.

About the Race

As of October 12th, Democratic challenger Vice President Joe Biden is leading Republican incumbent President Donald Trump in the polls by an average national margin of 9.2% (as of 10/24/20). Ten days before Election Day in 2016, Secretary Hillary Clinton held an average 4.9% polling lead over Donald Trump. Vice President Biden’s campaign has raised $952 million (as of 10/14/20) and is not funded by fossil fuel money. While his platform commits to establishing meaningful campaign finance reform, his 2020 campaign has received donations from special interest, corporate PAC, and lobbyist organizations. President Donald Trump has raised $601 million (as of 10/14/20) and has not taken any fundraising pledges. President Trump is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Citizens United, Proud Boys, and a variety of law enforcement organizations.

About the Candidate

Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is from Scranton, PA, and moved to Claymont, DE with his family when he was 10 years old. He has been a resident of Wilmington, DE, for most of his adult life. Vice President Biden came of age during the 1960s Civil Rights movement, which he cites as his inspiration for majoring in political science at the University of Delaware before earning his law degree at Syracuse University. His political career began in 1970 when he was elected to the New Castle County Council. Just two years later, at age 29, Vice President Biden ran for the Delaware Senate seat, and became one of the youngest people ever elected to the United States Senate. A few weeks after his election, his wife and infant daughter were killed in a car accident, and his two sons were badly injured. This personal tragedy shaped Vice President Biden’s public image as an empathetic leader and committed family man.

Vice President Biden spent 36 years representing Delaware in the Senate. He is often critiqued as being an unremarkable, status quo Democrat, and mid-career votes in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act, anti-drug legislation, and the Iraq War reaffirm that characterization. In 1991, Vice President Biden was the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and presided over the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Justice Clarence Thomas, who had been credibly accused of sexual harassment by a former colleague, Anita Hill. Vice President Biden’s mismanagement of the hearing resulted in a targeted and unfair character assassination of Anita Hill, and remains a reminder of his complicity in the patriarchal and racist systems on which American government is built.

Vice President Biden has also been directly accused of unwanted contact by several women over the course of his career. Most of the accusations came to light as part of the #MeToo movement, and related to invasions of personal space that included the touching of shoulders, caressing of hair, and close whispering. He has apologized publicly for this behavior, and stated an understanding of his responsibility to conform to more modern social norms in his interactions with women.

Vice President Biden launched two unsuccessful campaigns for President during his time in the Senate, in 1988 and 2008. After ending his 2008 campaign, he was chosen by President Barack Obama to join his ticket as Vice President, and they served together for two terms. As Vice President, he was responsible for managing the 2009 economic recovery, helping to expand health care through the Affordable Care Act, and acting as the administration’s liaison to the Senate. In 2015, his oldest son, Beau Biden, lost his battle with brain cancer at the age of 46. Since leaving office in 2016, Vice President Biden has dedicated substantial resources to cancer research.

Although he was rarely a trailblazer, Vice President Biden’s record does demonstrate a consistent liberal evolution on many issues throughout his career. After voting in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996, he was the first member of the Obama Administration to advocate for marriage equality in 2012. After presiding over the Anita Hill hearings in 1991, he was the architect of the Violence Against Women Act in 1994, and led the Obama Administration’s effort to reduce campus sexual assault through the It’s On Us campaign. After supporting the 1994 Crime Bill and aligning with the racist ‘tough on crime’ approach of that era, his current platform supports criminal justice reform, abolishing private prisons, and decriminalizing marijuana.

Vice President Biden has long been committed to building relationships with colleagues across the aisle, and bridging intra-party policy differences to establish compromise legislation for the American people. This commitment to civility resulted in Vice President Biden maintaining problematic working relationships with segregationist Senators James Eastland and Herman Talmadge during his time in the Senate. During the 2020 primary, Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Kamala Harris, both Black candidates running for President, were outward in their critique of what they viewed as Vice President Biden’s defense of the reputations and decency of these segregationists. However, Vice President Biden has not apologized for his continued defense of collaborating with these segregationist colleagues, and maintains broad support in the Black community.

Vice President Biden’s commitment to compromise has extended to the left in recent months, and updates to his campaign platform are reflective of his interest in connecting with progressive voters. While he was a more moderate candidate in the larger 2020 field, he has been conscientious about including the popular perspectives of his progressive rivals, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Sen. Bernie Sanders, in his platform. He has recently issued proposals that include middle-class tax cuts, lowering Medicare eligibility to age 60, new benchmarks for greenhouse gas emission limits, free college tuition for families making less than $125,000 annually, and clean energy investments. While these proposals do not embrace the full scope of progressive ideals, they are an important indicator of his capacity for collaboration.

The Biden/Harris campaign is endorsed by many progressive groups in the country. While the Biden/Harris platform is the most progressive platform ever adopted by a major party ticket, we encourage progressive advocates to continue to hold their administration accountable, and work to encourage progressive legislation throughout the country. With consideration to their records in public service, we unequivocally recommend Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is from Scranton, PA, and moved to Claymont, DE with his family when he was 10 years old. He has been a resident of Wilmington, DE, for most of his adult life. Vice President Biden came of age during the 1960s Civil Rights movement, which he cites as his inspiration for majoring in political science at the University of Delaware before earning his law degree at Syracuse University. His political career began in 1970 when he was elected to the New Castle County Council. Just two years later, at age 29, Vice President Biden ran for the Delaware Senate seat, and became one of the youngest people ever elected to the United States Senate. A few weeks after his election, his wife and infant daughter were killed in a car accident, and his two sons were badly injured. This personal tragedy shaped Vice President Biden’s public image as an empathetic leader and committed family man.

Elect Vice President Joseph Biden as President of the United States to get America back on track.

About the Position

The President of the United States is the head of the Executive branch of the federal government, and the Commander-in-Chief for all branches of the armed forces. A president has the power to make diplomatic, executive, and judicial appointments, and can sign into law or veto legislation. Presidential administrations are responsible for both foreign and domestic policy priorities. Presidents are limited to serving two four-year terms in office.

About the Race

As of October 12th, Democratic challenger Vice President Joe Biden is leading Republican incumbent President Donald Trump in the polls by an average national margin of 9.2% (as of 10/24/20). Ten days before Election Day in 2016, Secretary Hillary Clinton held an average 4.9% polling lead over Donald Trump. Vice President Biden’s campaign has raised $952 million (as of 10/14/20) and is not funded by fossil fuel money. While his platform commits to establishing meaningful campaign finance reform, his 2020 campaign has received donations from special interest, corporate PAC, and lobbyist organizations. President Donald Trump has raised $601 million (as of 10/14/20) and has not taken any fundraising pledges. President Trump is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Citizens United, Proud Boys, and a variety of law enforcement organizations.

About the Candidate

Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is from Scranton, PA, and moved to Claymont, DE with his family when he was 10 years old. He has been a resident of Wilmington, DE, for most of his adult life. Vice President Biden came of age during the 1960s Civil Rights movement, which he cites as his inspiration for majoring in political science at the University of Delaware before earning his law degree at Syracuse University. His political career began in 1970 when he was elected to the New Castle County Council. Just two years later, at age 29, Vice President Biden ran for the Delaware Senate seat, and became one of the youngest people ever elected to the United States Senate. A few weeks after his election, his wife and infant daughter were killed in a car accident, and his two sons were badly injured. This personal tragedy shaped Vice President Biden’s public image as an empathetic leader and committed family man.

Vice President Biden spent 36 years representing Delaware in the Senate. He is often critiqued as being an unremarkable, status quo Democrat, and mid-career votes in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act, anti-drug legislation, and the Iraq War reaffirm that characterization. In 1991, Vice President Biden was the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and presided over the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Justice Clarence Thomas, who had been credibly accused of sexual harassment by a former colleague, Anita Hill. Vice President Biden’s mismanagement of the hearing resulted in a targeted and unfair character assassination of Anita Hill, and remains a reminder of his complicity in the patriarchal and racist systems on which American government is built.

Vice President Biden has also been directly accused of unwanted contact by several women over the course of his career. Most of the accusations came to light as part of the #MeToo movement, and related to invasions of personal space that included the touching of shoulders, caressing of hair, and close whispering. He has apologized publicly for this behavior, and stated an understanding of his responsibility to conform to more modern social norms in his interactions with women.

Vice President Biden launched two unsuccessful campaigns for President during his time in the Senate, in 1988 and 2008. After ending his 2008 campaign, he was chosen by President Barack Obama to join his ticket as Vice President, and they served together for two terms. As Vice President, he was responsible for managing the 2009 economic recovery, helping to expand health care through the Affordable Care Act, and acting as the administration’s liaison to the Senate. In 2015, his oldest son, Beau Biden, lost his battle with brain cancer at the age of 46. Since leaving office in 2016, Vice President Biden has dedicated substantial resources to cancer research.

Although he was rarely a trailblazer, Vice President Biden’s record does demonstrate a consistent liberal evolution on many issues throughout his career. After voting in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996, he was the first member of the Obama Administration to advocate for marriage equality in 2012. After presiding over the Anita Hill hearings in 1991, he was the architect of the Violence Against Women Act in 1994, and led the Obama Administration’s effort to reduce campus sexual assault through the It’s On Us campaign. After supporting the 1994 Crime Bill and aligning with the racist ‘tough on crime’ approach of that era, his current platform supports criminal justice reform, abolishing private prisons, and decriminalizing marijuana.

Vice President Biden has long been committed to building relationships with colleagues across the aisle, and bridging intra-party policy differences to establish compromise legislation for the American people. This commitment to civility resulted in Vice President Biden maintaining problematic working relationships with segregationist Senators James Eastland and Herman Talmadge during his time in the Senate. During the 2020 primary, Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Kamala Harris, both Black candidates running for President, were outward in their critique of what they viewed as Vice President Biden’s defense of the reputations and decency of these segregationists. However, Vice President Biden has not apologized for his continued defense of collaborating with these segregationist colleagues, and maintains broad support in the Black community.

Vice President Biden’s commitment to compromise has extended to the left in recent months, and updates to his campaign platform are reflective of his interest in connecting with progressive voters. While he was a more moderate candidate in the larger 2020 field, he has been conscientious about including the popular perspectives of his progressive rivals, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Sen. Bernie Sanders, in his platform. He has recently issued proposals that include middle-class tax cuts, lowering Medicare eligibility to age 60, new benchmarks for greenhouse gas emission limits, free college tuition for families making less than $125,000 annually, and clean energy investments. While these proposals do not embrace the full scope of progressive ideals, they are an important indicator of his capacity for collaboration.

The Biden/Harris campaign is endorsed by many progressive groups in the country. While the Biden/Harris platform is the most progressive platform ever adopted by a major party ticket, we encourage progressive advocates to continue to hold their administration accountable, and work to encourage progressive legislation throughout the country. With consideration to their records in public service, we unequivocally recommend Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is from Scranton, PA, and moved to Claymont, DE with his family when he was 10 years old. He has been a resident of Wilmington, DE, for most of his adult life. Vice President Biden came of age during the 1960s Civil Rights movement, which he cites as his inspiration for majoring in political science at the University of Delaware before earning his law degree at Syracuse University. His political career began in 1970 when he was elected to the New Castle County Council. Just two years later, at age 29, Vice President Biden ran for the Delaware Senate seat, and became one of the youngest people ever elected to the United States Senate. A few weeks after his election, his wife and infant daughter were killed in a car accident, and his two sons were badly injured. This personal tragedy shaped Vice President Biden’s public image as an empathetic leader and committed family man.

Elect Vice President Joseph Biden as President of the United States to get America back on track.

About the Position

The President of the United States is the head of the Executive branch of the federal government, and the Commander-in-Chief for all branches of the armed forces. A president has the power to make diplomatic, executive, and judicial appointments, and can sign into law or veto legislation. Presidential administrations are responsible for both foreign and domestic policy priorities. Presidents are limited to serving two four-year terms in office.

About the Race

As of October 12th, Democratic challenger Vice President Joe Biden is leading Republican incumbent President Donald Trump in the polls by an average national margin of 9.2% (as of 10/24/20). Ten days before Election Day in 2016, Secretary Hillary Clinton held an average 4.9% polling lead over Donald Trump. Vice President Biden’s campaign has raised $952 million (as of 10/14/20) and is not funded by fossil fuel money. While his platform commits to establishing meaningful campaign finance reform, his 2020 campaign has received donations from special interest, corporate PAC, and lobbyist organizations. President Donald Trump has raised $601 million (as of 10/14/20) and has not taken any fundraising pledges. President Trump is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Citizens United, Proud Boys, and a variety of law enforcement organizations.

About the Candidate

Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is from Scranton, PA, and moved to Claymont, DE with his family when he was 10 years old. He has been a resident of Wilmington, DE, for most of his adult life. Vice President Biden came of age during the 1960s Civil Rights movement, which he cites as his inspiration for majoring in political science at the University of Delaware before earning his law degree at Syracuse University. His political career began in 1970 when he was elected to the New Castle County Council. Just two years later, at age 29, Vice President Biden ran for the Delaware Senate seat, and became one of the youngest people ever elected to the United States Senate. A few weeks after his election, his wife and infant daughter were killed in a car accident, and his two sons were badly injured. This personal tragedy shaped Vice President Biden’s public image as an empathetic leader and committed family man.

Vice President Biden spent 36 years representing Delaware in the Senate. He is often critiqued as being an unremarkable, status quo Democrat, and mid-career votes in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act, anti-drug legislation, and the Iraq War reaffirm that characterization. In 1991, Vice President Biden was the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and presided over the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Justice Clarence Thomas, who had been credibly accused of sexual harassment by a former colleague, Anita Hill. Vice President Biden’s mismanagement of the hearing resulted in a targeted and unfair character assassination of Anita Hill, and remains a reminder of his complicity in the patriarchal and racist systems on which American government is built.

Vice President Biden has also been directly accused of unwanted contact by several women over the course of his career. Most of the accusations came to light as part of the #MeToo movement, and related to invasions of personal space that included the touching of shoulders, caressing of hair, and close whispering. He has apologized publicly for this behavior, and stated an understanding of his responsibility to conform to more modern social norms in his interactions with women.

Vice President Biden launched two unsuccessful campaigns for President during his time in the Senate, in 1988 and 2008. After ending his 2008 campaign, he was chosen by President Barack Obama to join his ticket as Vice President, and they served together for two terms. As Vice President, he was responsible for managing the 2009 economic recovery, helping to expand health care through the Affordable Care Act, and acting as the administration’s liaison to the Senate. In 2015, his oldest son, Beau Biden, lost his battle with brain cancer at the age of 46. Since leaving office in 2016, Vice President Biden has dedicated substantial resources to cancer research.

Although he was rarely a trailblazer, Vice President Biden’s record does demonstrate a consistent liberal evolution on many issues throughout his career. After voting in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996, he was the first member of the Obama Administration to advocate for marriage equality in 2012. After presiding over the Anita Hill hearings in 1991, he was the architect of the Violence Against Women Act in 1994, and led the Obama Administration’s effort to reduce campus sexual assault through the It’s On Us campaign. After supporting the 1994 Crime Bill and aligning with the racist ‘tough on crime’ approach of that era, his current platform supports criminal justice reform, abolishing private prisons, and decriminalizing marijuana.

Vice President Biden has long been committed to building relationships with colleagues across the aisle, and bridging intra-party policy differences to establish compromise legislation for the American people. This commitment to civility resulted in Vice President Biden maintaining problematic working relationships with segregationist Senators James Eastland and Herman Talmadge during his time in the Senate. During the 2020 primary, Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Kamala Harris, both Black candidates running for President, were outward in their critique of what they viewed as Vice President Biden’s defense of the reputations and decency of these segregationists. However, Vice President Biden has not apologized for his continued defense of collaborating with these segregationist colleagues, and maintains broad support in the Black community.

Vice President Biden’s commitment to compromise has extended to the left in recent months, and updates to his campaign platform are reflective of his interest in connecting with progressive voters. While he was a more moderate candidate in the larger 2020 field, he has been conscientious about including the popular perspectives of his progressive rivals, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Sen. Bernie Sanders, in his platform. He has recently issued proposals that include middle-class tax cuts, lowering Medicare eligibility to age 60, new benchmarks for greenhouse gas emission limits, free college tuition for families making less than $125,000 annually, and clean energy investments. While these proposals do not embrace the full scope of progressive ideals, they are an important indicator of his capacity for collaboration.

The Biden/Harris campaign is endorsed by many progressive groups in the country. While the Biden/Harris platform is the most progressive platform ever adopted by a major party ticket, we encourage progressive advocates to continue to hold their administration accountable, and work to encourage progressive legislation throughout the country. With consideration to their records in public service, we unequivocally recommend Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

Website Endorsements
Elect Vice President Joseph Biden as President of the United States to get America back on track.

About the Position

The President of the United States is the head of the Executive branch of the federal government, and the Commander-in-Chief for all branches of the armed forces. A president has the power to make diplomatic, executive, and judicial appointments, and can sign into law or veto legislation. Presidential administrations are responsible for both foreign and domestic policy priorities. Presidents are limited to serving two four-year terms in office.

About the Race

As of October 12th, Democratic challenger Vice President Joe Biden is leading Republican incumbent President Donald Trump in the polls by an average national margin of 9.2% (as of 10/24/20). Ten days before Election Day in 2016, Secretary Hillary Clinton held an average 4.9% polling lead over Donald Trump. Vice President Biden’s campaign has raised $952 million (as of 10/14/20) and is not funded by fossil fuel money. While his platform commits to establishing meaningful campaign finance reform, his 2020 campaign has received donations from special interest, corporate PAC, and lobbyist organizations. President Donald Trump has raised $601 million (as of 10/14/20) and has not taken any fundraising pledges. President Trump is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Citizens United, Proud Boys, and a variety of law enforcement organizations.

About the Candidate

Vice President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is from Scranton, PA, and moved to Claymont, DE with his family when he was 10 years old. He has been a resident of Wilmington, DE, for most of his adult life. Vice President Biden came of age during the 1960s Civil Rights movement, which he cites as his inspiration for majoring in political science at the University of Delaware before earning his law degree at Syracuse University. His political career began in 1970 when he was elected to the New Castle County Council. Just two years later, at age 29, Vice President Biden ran for the Delaware Senate seat, and became one of the youngest people ever elected to the United States Senate. A few weeks after his election, his wife and infant daughter were killed in a car accident, and his two sons were badly injured. This personal tragedy shaped Vice President Biden’s public image as an empathetic leader and committed family man.

Vice President Biden spent 36 years representing Delaware in the Senate. He is often critiqued as being an unremarkable, status quo Democrat, and mid-career votes in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act, anti-drug legislation, and the Iraq War reaffirm that characterization. In 1991, Vice President Biden was the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and presided over the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Justice Clarence Thomas, who had been credibly accused of sexual harassment by a former colleague, Anita Hill. Vice President Biden’s mismanagement of the hearing resulted in a targeted and unfair character assassination of Anita Hill, and remains a reminder of his complicity in the patriarchal and racist systems on which American government is built.

Vice President Biden has also been directly accused of unwanted contact by several women over the course of his career. Most of the accusations came to light as part of the #MeToo movement, and related to invasions of personal space that included the touching of shoulders, caressing of hair, and close whispering. He has apologized publicly for this behavior, and stated an understanding of his responsibility to conform to more modern social norms in his interactions with women.

Vice President Biden launched two unsuccessful campaigns for President during his time in the Senate, in 1988 and 2008. After ending his 2008 campaign, he was chosen by President Barack Obama to join his ticket as Vice President, and they served together for two terms. As Vice President, he was responsible for managing the 2009 economic recovery, helping to expand health care through the Affordable Care Act, and acting as the administration’s liaison to the Senate. In 2015, his oldest son, Beau Biden, lost his battle with brain cancer at the age of 46. Since leaving office in 2016, Vice President Biden has dedicated substantial resources to cancer research.

Although he was rarely a trailblazer, Vice President Biden’s record does demonstrate a consistent liberal evolution on many issues throughout his career. After voting in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996, he was the first member of the Obama Administration to advocate for marriage equality in 2012. After presiding over the Anita Hill hearings in 1991, he was the architect of the Violence Against Women Act in 1994, and led the Obama Administration’s effort to reduce campus sexual assault through the It’s On Us campaign. After supporting the 1994 Crime Bill and aligning with the racist ‘tough on crime’ approach of that era, his current platform supports criminal justice reform, abolishing private prisons, and decriminalizing marijuana.

Vice President Biden has long been committed to building relationships with colleagues across the aisle, and bridging intra-party policy differences to establish compromise legislation for the American people. This commitment to civility resulted in Vice President Biden maintaining problematic working relationships with segregationist Senators James Eastland and Herman Talmadge during his time in the Senate. During the 2020 primary, Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Kamala Harris, both Black candidates running for President, were outward in their critique of what they viewed as Vice President Biden’s defense of the reputations and decency of these segregationists. However, Vice President Biden has not apologized for his continued defense of collaborating with these segregationist colleagues, and maintains broad support in the Black community.

Vice President Biden’s commitment to compromise has extended to the left in recent months, and updates to his campaign platform are reflective of his interest in connecting with progressive voters. While he was a more moderate candidate in the larger 2020 field, he has been conscientious about including the popular perspectives of his progressive rivals, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Sen. Bernie Sanders, in his platform. He has recently issued proposals that include middle-class tax cuts, lowering Medicare eligibility to age 60, new benchmarks for greenhouse gas emission limits, free college tuition for families making less than $125,000 annually, and clean energy investments. While these proposals do not embrace the full scope of progressive ideals, they are an important indicator of his capacity for collaboration.

The Biden/Harris campaign is endorsed by many progressive groups in the country. While the Biden/Harris platform is the most progressive platform ever adopted by a major party ticket, we encourage progressive advocates to continue to hold their administration accountable, and work to encourage progressive legislation throughout the country. With consideration to their records in public service, we unequivocally recommend Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Kamala Harris

Website Endorsements
Elect Senator Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States to get America back on track.

About the Position

The Vice President is the second-highest office in the Executive branch of the federal government. The officeholder is the first in the line of succession to the presidency and holds legislative authority as the president of the Senate. In this role, the Vice President presides over Senate deliberations and can cast a tie-breaking vote in close decisions. A Vice Presidential candidate is selected directly by a Presidential nominee who has won the democratic primary process. Vice Presidential candidates are elected indirectly as a part of the Presidential ticket in the general election. A Vice President serves four year terms, and there is no term limit for this position.

About the Race

As of October 12th, Democratic challenger Vice President Joe Biden is leading Republican incumbent President Donald Trump in the polls by an average national margin of 9.2% (as of 10/24/20). Ten days before Election Day in 2016, Secretary Hillary Clinton held an average 4.9% polling lead over Donald Trump. Vice President Biden’s campaign has raised $952 million (as of 10/14/20) and is not funded by fossil fuel money. While his platform commits to establishing meaningful campaign finance reform, his 2020 campaign has received donations from special interest, corporate PAC, and lobbyist organizations. President Donald Trump has raised $601 million (as of 10/14/20) and has not taken any fundraising pledges. President Trump is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Citizens United, Proud Boys, and a variety of law enforcement organizations.

About the Candidate

Senator Kamala Harris grew up in Berkeley, CA, and now resides in Los Angeles. She is the daughter of a Jamiacan father and an Indian mother who both emigrated to the Bay Area in the 1960s, and established themselves as activists in the Civil Rights movement in Oakland. Sen. Harris’ interest in justice and equal rights was instilled at a young age when she participated in civil rights protests in Oakland alongside her activist parents, and was further shaped when she was included in the second class of students to be bussed as part of Berkley’s efforts toward school integration. She attended Howard University, one of America’s HBCU institutions, for undergraduate studies, and completed her law degree at the University of California, Hastings.

After working for the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for 8 years, Sen. Harris transitioned to a role as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s office. Sen. Harris’ political career began in 2003 when she won her bid to become District Attorney of the City and County of San Francisco. She served two terms in San Francisco before being elected as the Attorney General for the state of California in 2010. She was the first woman and the first person of color to hold this seat. In representing the needs and interests of Californians in each of these roles, Sen. Harris’ record was both progressive for the time and complicated by her moderate approach to policing and criminal justice. She has been criticized for failing to institute comprehensive police accountability measures, for not establishing meaningful prison reform, and for taking a hands-off approach to cases related to police misconduct. However, her lenient approach to policing was often punctuated by decidedly progressive support for social justice issues, including the establishment of an education and workforce reentry program designed to diminish recidivism. Similarly, as Attorney General, she declined to defend Proposition 8, a proposition to make same-sex marriage illegal in California, in court and officiated the first wedding in the state when marriage equality was restored in 2013.

In 2016, Sen. Harris became the first woman of color elected to represent California in the United States Senate. Sen. Harris has sponsored legislation on climate and environmental protections, rental and housing protections, women’s health, and pandemic relief. She was also an original cosponsor of the progressive Green New Deal authored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and Sen. Ed Markey. Sen. Harris sits on four committees: Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Budget, Judiciary, and Select Committee on Intelligence. She has been an outspoken opponent of the Trump Administration, and has deftly used her position on the Senate Judiciary Committee to question judicial nominees and interrogate the hypocrisy of her Republican colleagues.

Sen. Harris formally launched her campaign for President in January 2019 at an Oakland rally with an estimated attendance of 20,000 supporters. As a candidate, she pushed forward a platform that opposed Medicare for All, supported expansion of the Affordable Care Act, sought to expand tax benefits for middle and low-income families, supported citizenship for Dreamers, and favored a ban on assault weapons. She ended her campaign in December 2019, and was tapped to join Vice President Joe Biden’s ticket ahead of the Democratic National Convention in August 2020.

The Biden/Harris campaign is endorsed by many progressive groups in the country. While the Biden/Harris platform is the most progressive platform ever adopted by a major party ticket, we encourage progressive advocates to continue to hold their administration accountable, and work to encourage progressive legislation throughout the country. With consideration to their records in public service, we unequivocally recommend Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Senator Kamala Harris grew up in Berkeley, CA, and now resides in Los Angeles. She is the daughter of a Jamiacan father and an Indian mother who both emigrated to the Bay Area in the 1960s, and established themselves as activists in the Civil Rights movement in Oakland. Sen. Harris’ interest in justice and equal rights was instilled at a young age when she participated in civil rights protests in Oakland alongside her activist parents, and was further shaped when she was included in the second class of students to be bussed as part of Berkley’s efforts toward school integration. She attended Howard University, one of America’s HBCU institutions, for undergraduate studies, and completed her law degree at the University of California, Hastings.

Elect Senator Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States to get America back on track.

About the Position

The Vice President is the second-highest office in the Executive branch of the federal government. The officeholder is the first in the line of succession to the presidency and holds legislative authority as the president of the Senate. In this role, the Vice President presides over Senate deliberations and can cast a tie-breaking vote in close decisions. A Vice Presidential candidate is selected directly by a Presidential nominee who has won the democratic primary process. Vice Presidential candidates are elected indirectly as a part of the Presidential ticket in the general election. A Vice President serves four year terms, and there is no term limit for this position.

About the Race

As of October 12th, Democratic challenger Vice President Joe Biden is leading Republican incumbent President Donald Trump in the polls by an average national margin of 9.2% (as of 10/24/20). Ten days before Election Day in 2016, Secretary Hillary Clinton held an average 4.9% polling lead over Donald Trump. Vice President Biden’s campaign has raised $952 million (as of 10/14/20) and is not funded by fossil fuel money. While his platform commits to establishing meaningful campaign finance reform, his 2020 campaign has received donations from special interest, corporate PAC, and lobbyist organizations. President Donald Trump has raised $601 million (as of 10/14/20) and has not taken any fundraising pledges. President Trump is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Citizens United, Proud Boys, and a variety of law enforcement organizations.

About the Candidate

Senator Kamala Harris grew up in Berkeley, CA, and now resides in Los Angeles. She is the daughter of a Jamiacan father and an Indian mother who both emigrated to the Bay Area in the 1960s, and established themselves as activists in the Civil Rights movement in Oakland. Sen. Harris’ interest in justice and equal rights was instilled at a young age when she participated in civil rights protests in Oakland alongside her activist parents, and was further shaped when she was included in the second class of students to be bussed as part of Berkley’s efforts toward school integration. She attended Howard University, one of America’s HBCU institutions, for undergraduate studies, and completed her law degree at the University of California, Hastings.

After working for the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for 8 years, Sen. Harris transitioned to a role as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s office. Sen. Harris’ political career began in 2003 when she won her bid to become District Attorney of the City and County of San Francisco. She served two terms in San Francisco before being elected as the Attorney General for the state of California in 2010. She was the first woman and the first person of color to hold this seat. In representing the needs and interests of Californians in each of these roles, Sen. Harris’ record was both progressive for the time and complicated by her moderate approach to policing and criminal justice. She has been criticized for failing to institute comprehensive police accountability measures, for not establishing meaningful prison reform, and for taking a hands-off approach to cases related to police misconduct. However, her lenient approach to policing was often punctuated by decidedly progressive support for social justice issues, including the establishment of an education and workforce reentry program designed to diminish recidivism. Similarly, as Attorney General, she declined to defend Proposition 8, a proposition to make same-sex marriage illegal in California, in court and officiated the first wedding in the state when marriage equality was restored in 2013.

In 2016, Sen. Harris became the first woman of color elected to represent California in the United States Senate. Sen. Harris has sponsored legislation on climate and environmental protections, rental and housing protections, women’s health, and pandemic relief. She was also an original cosponsor of the progressive Green New Deal authored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and Sen. Ed Markey. Sen. Harris sits on four committees: Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Budget, Judiciary, and Select Committee on Intelligence. She has been an outspoken opponent of the Trump Administration, and has deftly used her position on the Senate Judiciary Committee to question judicial nominees and interrogate the hypocrisy of her Republican colleagues.

Sen. Harris formally launched her campaign for President in January 2019 at an Oakland rally with an estimated attendance of 20,000 supporters. As a candidate, she pushed forward a platform that opposed Medicare for All, supported expansion of the Affordable Care Act, sought to expand tax benefits for middle and low-income families, supported citizenship for Dreamers, and favored a ban on assault weapons. She ended her campaign in December 2019, and was tapped to join Vice President Joe Biden’s ticket ahead of the Democratic National Convention in August 2020.

The Biden/Harris campaign is endorsed by many progressive groups in the country. While the Biden/Harris platform is the most progressive platform ever adopted by a major party ticket, we encourage progressive advocates to continue to hold their administration accountable, and work to encourage progressive legislation throughout the country. With consideration to their records in public service, we unequivocally recommend Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Senator Kamala Harris grew up in Berkeley, CA, and now resides in Los Angeles. She is the daughter of a Jamiacan father and an Indian mother who both emigrated to the Bay Area in the 1960s, and established themselves as activists in the Civil Rights movement in Oakland. Sen. Harris’ interest in justice and equal rights was instilled at a young age when she participated in civil rights protests in Oakland alongside her activist parents, and was further shaped when she was included in the second class of students to be bussed as part of Berkley’s efforts toward school integration. She attended Howard University, one of America’s HBCU institutions, for undergraduate studies, and completed her law degree at the University of California, Hastings.

Elect Senator Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States to get America back on track.

About the Position

The Vice President is the second-highest office in the Executive branch of the federal government. The officeholder is the first in the line of succession to the presidency and holds legislative authority as the president of the Senate. In this role, the Vice President presides over Senate deliberations and can cast a tie-breaking vote in close decisions. A Vice Presidential candidate is selected directly by a Presidential nominee who has won the democratic primary process. Vice Presidential candidates are elected indirectly as a part of the Presidential ticket in the general election. A Vice President serves four year terms, and there is no term limit for this position.

About the Race

About the Candidate

Senator Kamala Harris grew up in Berkeley, CA, and now resides in Los Angeles. She is the daughter of a Jamiacan father and an Indian mother who both emigrated to the Bay Area in the 1960s, and established themselves as activists in the Civil Rights movement in Oakland. Sen. Harris’ interest in justice and equal rights was instilled at a young age when she participated in civil rights protests in Oakland alongside her activist parents, and was further shaped when she was included in the second class of students to be bussed as part of Berkley’s efforts toward school integration. She attended Howard University, one of America’s HBCU institutions, for undergraduate studies, and completed her law degree at the University of California, Hastings.

After working for the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for 8 years, Sen. Harris transitioned to a role as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s office. Sen. Harris’ political career began in 2003 when she won her bid to become District Attorney of the City and County of San Francisco. She served two terms in San Francisco before being elected as the Attorney General for the state of California in 2010. She was the first woman and the first person of color to hold this seat. In representing the needs and interests of Californians in each of these roles, Sen. Harris’ record was both progressive for the time and complicated by her moderate approach to policing and criminal justice. She has been criticized for failing to institute comprehensive police accountability measures, for not establishing meaningful prison reform, and for taking a hands-off approach to cases related to police misconduct. However, her lenient approach to policing was often punctuated by decidedly progressive support for social justice issues, including the establishment of an education and workforce reentry program designed to diminish recidivism. Similarly, as Attorney General, she declined to defend Proposition 8, a proposition to make same-sex marriage illegal in California, in court and officiated the first wedding in the state when marriage equality was restored in 2013.

In 2016, Sen. Harris became the first woman of color elected to represent California in the United States Senate. Sen. Harris has sponsored legislation on climate and environmental protections, rental and housing protections, women’s health, and pandemic relief. She was also an original cosponsor of the progressive Green New Deal authored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and Sen. Ed Markey. Sen. Harris sits on four committees: Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Budget, Judiciary, and Select Committee on Intelligence. She has been an outspoken opponent of the Trump Administration, and has deftly used her position on the Senate Judiciary Committee to question judicial nominees and interrogate the hypocrisy of her Republican colleagues.

Sen. Harris formally launched her campaign for President in January 2019 at an Oakland rally with an estimated attendance of 20,000 supporters. As a candidate, she pushed forward a platform that opposed Medicare for All, supported expansion of the Affordable Care Act, sought to expand tax benefits for middle and low-income families, supported citizenship for Dreamers, and favored a ban on assault weapons. She ended her campaign in December 2019, and was tapped to join Vice President Joe Biden’s ticket ahead of the Democratic National Convention in August 2020.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Kamala Harris

Website Endorsements
Elect Senator Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States to get America back on track.

About the Position

The Vice President is the second-highest office in the Executive branch of the federal government. The officeholder is the first in the line of succession to the presidency and holds legislative authority as the president of the Senate. In this role, the Vice President presides over Senate deliberations and can cast a tie-breaking vote in close decisions. A Vice Presidential candidate is selected directly by a Presidential nominee who has won the democratic primary process. Vice Presidential candidates are elected indirectly as a part of the Presidential ticket in the general election. A Vice President serves four year terms, and there is no term limit for this position.

About the Race

As of October 12th, Democratic challenger Vice President Joe Biden is leading Republican incumbent President Donald Trump in the polls by an average national margin of 9.2% (as of 10/24/20). Ten days before Election Day in 2016, Secretary Hillary Clinton held an average 4.9% polling lead over Donald Trump. Vice President Biden’s campaign has raised $952 million (as of 10/14/20) and is not funded by fossil fuel money. While his platform commits to establishing meaningful campaign finance reform, his 2020 campaign has received donations from special interest, corporate PAC, and lobbyist organizations. President Donald Trump has raised $601 million (as of 10/14/20) and has not taken any fundraising pledges. President Trump is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Citizens United, Proud Boys, and a variety of law enforcement organizations.

About the Candidate

Senator Kamala Harris grew up in Berkeley, CA, and now resides in Los Angeles. She is the daughter of a Jamiacan father and an Indian mother who both emigrated to the Bay Area in the 1960s, and established themselves as activists in the Civil Rights movement in Oakland. Sen. Harris’ interest in justice and equal rights was instilled at a young age when she participated in civil rights protests in Oakland alongside her activist parents, and was further shaped when she was included in the second class of students to be bussed as part of Berkley’s efforts toward school integration. She attended Howard University, one of America’s HBCU institutions, for undergraduate studies, and completed her law degree at the University of California, Hastings.

After working for the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for 8 years, Sen. Harris transitioned to a role as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s office. Sen. Harris’ political career began in 2003 when she won her bid to become District Attorney of the City and County of San Francisco. She served two terms in San Francisco before being elected as the Attorney General for the state of California in 2010. She was the first woman and the first person of color to hold this seat. In representing the needs and interests of Californians in each of these roles, Sen. Harris’ record was both progressive for the time and complicated by her moderate approach to policing and criminal justice. She has been criticized for failing to institute comprehensive police accountability measures, for not establishing meaningful prison reform, and for taking a hands-off approach to cases related to police misconduct. However, her lenient approach to policing was often punctuated by decidedly progressive support for social justice issues, including the establishment of an education and workforce reentry program designed to diminish recidivism. Similarly, as Attorney General, she declined to defend Proposition 8, a proposition to make same-sex marriage illegal in California, in court and officiated the first wedding in the state when marriage equality was restored in 2013.

In 2016, Sen. Harris became the first woman of color elected to represent California in the United States Senate. Sen. Harris has sponsored legislation on climate and environmental protections, rental and housing protections, women’s health, and pandemic relief. She was also an original cosponsor of the progressive Green New Deal authored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and Sen. Ed Markey. Sen. Harris sits on four committees: Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Budget, Judiciary, and Select Committee on Intelligence. She has been an outspoken opponent of the Trump Administration, and has deftly used her position on the Senate Judiciary Committee to question judicial nominees and interrogate the hypocrisy of her Republican colleagues.

Sen. Harris formally launched her campaign for President in January 2019 at an Oakland rally with an estimated attendance of 20,000 supporters. As a candidate, she pushed forward a platform that opposed Medicare for All, supported expansion of the Affordable Care Act, sought to expand tax benefits for middle and low-income families, supported citizenship for Dreamers, and favored a ban on assault weapons. She ended her campaign in December 2019, and was tapped to join Vice President Joe Biden’s ticket ahead of the Democratic National Convention in August 2020.

The Biden/Harris campaign is endorsed by many progressive groups in the country. While the Biden/Harris platform is the most progressive platform ever adopted by a major party ticket, we encourage progressive advocates to continue to hold their administration accountable, and work to encourage progressive legislation throughout the country. With consideration to their records in public service, we unequivocally recommend Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

City District Races

Depending on where you live, you may have the below city district races on your ballot.

Los Angeles, District 4

Los Angeles City Council, District 4

Non-Partisan
Nithya Raman

Website
Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

About the Position
The city of Los Angeles is governed by a fifteen-person city council. A city council is responsible for establishing policy, passing local laws (called ordinances), voting on budget appropriations, and developing an overall vision for the city. City council members in Los Angeles are ‎limited to three terms or 12 years in office total.

About the District
The City of Los Angeles is Los Angeles County’s most populous city. Los Angeles City Council oversees the needs of almost 4 million people and manages an estimated budget of $10.3 billion annually. Los Angeles is managed by a mayor-council structured government. Los Angeles’s District 4 includes the neighborhoods of Koreatown, Mid-Wilshire, Sherman Oaks, Hollywood, Griffith Park, and Los Feliz.

About the Race
In the primary, challenger Raman trailed incumbent David E. Ryu by a margin of 3.6 percent. Raman’s campaign has raised about $357,000 and has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, police, and corporate money. Raman’s bid has been supported by a coalition of volunteer organizers who knocked on almost 80,000 doors in the district. Ryu’s campaign has raised more than $1 million, at least $149,000 of which is from out-of-district donors, including a board member of a planned museum that is leasing land from the city. Ryu has also taken the pledge to refuse fossil fuel and police money, although he had already received and spent police funds. He also pledged to refuse developer money, but still received such funds and claimed to have returned it.

About the Candidate

Raman, a trained urban planner, lives in the Silverlake neighborhood of Los Angeles. According to campaign materials, she is running to represent District 4 on the city council to build a more inclusive and just Los Angeles.

Raman is running on a strongly progressive platform that promises to center the voices and needs of underserved communities in Los Angeles. Her knowledge of policy is clearly demonstrated in her platform, which focuses on addressing housing and homelessness, responding to the climate emergency, and bringing Angelenos into the lawmaking process to increase transparency and accountability in city policymaking.

She is a co-founder of SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition, a local neighborhood-based organization formed in response to the city’s inaction on homelessness. She has also served as co-chair of the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council’s Homelessness Committee since 2017. Raman recently served as executive director of Time’s Up Entertainment, the women’s rights movement furthering equity and safety for women in the entertainment industry. Raman’s relationships in entertainment are strong, and her campaign is based on partnering with artists and performers as a rallying force for its organizing efforts.

Raman is the best choice because of her strong understanding of the challenges facing the city of Los Angeles as detailed in her policy platform, her track record of leading the way in standing up for communities under attack, and her ability to connect with and engage people currently outside of the political process.

While endorsements are split in the race, Raman’s endorsers are, on the whole, the most progressive in the district, while Ryu’s tend to be more moderate. According to our analysis, Raman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Nithya Raman

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

About the Position

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

About the Position
The city of Los Angeles is governed by a fifteen-person city council. A city council is responsible for establishing policy, passing local laws (called ordinances), voting on budget appropriations, and developing an overall vision for the city. City council members in Los Angeles are ‎limited to three terms or 12 years in office total.

About the District
The City of Los Angeles is Los Angeles County’s most populous city. Los Angeles City Council oversees the needs of almost 4 million people and manages an estimated budget of $10.3 billion annually. Los Angeles is managed by a mayor-council structured government. Los Angeles’s District 4 includes the neighborhoods of Koreatown, Mid-Wilshire, Sherman Oaks, Hollywood, Griffith Park, and Los Feliz.

About the Race
In the primary, challenger Raman trailed incumbent David E. Ryu by a margin of 3.6 percent. Raman’s campaign has raised about $357,000 and has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, police, and corporate money. Raman’s bid has been supported by a coalition of volunteer organizers who knocked on almost 80,000 doors in the district. Ryu’s campaign has raised more than $1 million, at least $149,000 of which is from out-of-district donors, including a board member of a planned museum that is leasing land from the city. Ryu has also taken the pledge to refuse fossil fuel and police money, although he had already received and spent police funds. He also pledged to refuse developer money, but still received such funds and claimed to have returned it.

About the Candidate

Raman, a trained urban planner, lives in the Silverlake neighborhood of Los Angeles. According to campaign materials, she is running to represent District 4 on the city council to build a more inclusive and just Los Angeles.

Raman is running on a strongly progressive platform that promises to center the voices and needs of underserved communities in Los Angeles. Her knowledge of policy is clearly demonstrated in her platform, which focuses on addressing housing and homelessness, responding to the climate emergency, and bringing Angelenos into the lawmaking process to increase transparency and accountability in city policymaking.

She is a co-founder of SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition, a local neighborhood-based organization formed in response to the city’s inaction on homelessness. She has also served as co-chair of the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council’s Homelessness Committee since 2017. Raman recently served as executive director of Time’s Up Entertainment, the women’s rights movement furthering equity and safety for women in the entertainment industry. Raman’s relationships in entertainment are strong, and her campaign is based on partnering with artists and performers as a rallying force for its organizing efforts.

Raman is the best choice because of her strong understanding of the challenges facing the city of Los Angeles as detailed in her policy platform, her track record of leading the way in standing up for communities under attack, and her ability to connect with and engage people currently outside of the political process.

While endorsements are split in the race, Raman’s endorsers are, on the whole, the most progressive in the district, while Ryu’s tend to be more moderate. According to our analysis, Raman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Nithya Raman

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

About the Position

Endorsed By: The Working Families Party

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

About the Position
The city of Los Angeles is governed by a fifteen-person city council. A city council is responsible for establishing policy, passing local laws (called ordinances), voting on budget appropriations, and developing an overall vision for the city. City council members in Los Angeles are ‎limited to three terms or 12 years in office total.

About the District
The City of Los Angeles is Los Angeles County’s most populous city. Los Angeles City Council oversees the needs of almost 4 million people and manages an estimated budget of $10.3 billion annually. Los Angeles is managed by a mayor-council structured government. Los Angeles’s District 4 includes the neighborhoods of Koreatown, Mid-Wilshire, Sherman Oaks, Hollywood, Griffith Park, and Los Feliz.

About the Race
In the primary, challenger Raman trailed incumbent David E. Ryu by a margin of 3.6 percent. Raman’s campaign has raised about $357,000 and has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, police, and corporate money. Raman’s bid has been supported by a coalition of volunteer organizers who knocked on almost 80,000 doors in the district. Ryu’s campaign has raised more than $1 million, at least $149,000 of which is from out-of-district donors, including a board member of a planned museum that is leasing land from the city. Ryu has also taken the pledge to refuse fossil fuel and police money, although he had already received and spent police funds. He also pledged to refuse developer money, but still received such funds and claimed to have returned it.

About the Candidate

Raman, a trained urban planner, lives in the Silverlake neighborhood of Los Angeles. According to campaign materials, she is running to represent District 4 on the city council to build a more inclusive and just Los Angeles.

Raman is running on a strongly progressive platform that promises to center the voices and needs of underserved communities in Los Angeles. Her knowledge of policy is clearly demonstrated in her platform, which focuses on addressing housing and homelessness, responding to the climate emergency, and bringing Angelenos into the lawmaking process to increase transparency and accountability in city policymaking.

She is a co-founder of SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition, a local neighborhood-based organization formed in response to the city’s inaction on homelessness. She has also served as co-chair of the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council’s Homelessness Committee since 2017. Raman recently served as executive director of Time’s Up Entertainment, the women’s rights movement furthering equity and safety for women in the entertainment industry. Raman’s relationships in entertainment are strong, and her campaign is based on partnering with artists and performers as a rallying force for its organizing efforts.

Raman is the best choice because of her strong understanding of the challenges facing the city of Los Angeles as detailed in her policy platform, her track record of leading the way in standing up for communities under attack, and her ability to connect with and engage people currently outside of the political process.

While endorsements are split in the race, Raman’s endorsers are, on the whole, the most progressive in the district, while Ryu’s tend to be more moderate. According to our analysis, Raman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Non-Partisan
Nithya Raman

Website
Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

About the Position
The city of Los Angeles is governed by a fifteen-person city council. A city council is responsible for establishing policy, passing local laws (called ordinances), voting on budget appropriations, and developing an overall vision for the city. City council members in Los Angeles are ‎limited to three terms or 12 years in office total.

About the District
The City of Los Angeles is Los Angeles County’s most populous city. Los Angeles City Council oversees the needs of almost 4 million people and manages an estimated budget of $10.3 billion annually. Los Angeles is managed by a mayor-council structured government. Los Angeles’s District 4 includes the neighborhoods of Koreatown, Mid-Wilshire, Sherman Oaks, Hollywood, Griffith Park, and Los Feliz.

About the Race
In the primary, challenger Raman trailed incumbent David E. Ryu by a margin of 3.6 percent. Raman’s campaign has raised about $357,000 and has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, police, and corporate money. Raman’s bid has been supported by a coalition of volunteer organizers who knocked on almost 80,000 doors in the district. Ryu’s campaign has raised more than $1 million, at least $149,000 of which is from out-of-district donors, including a board member of a planned museum that is leasing land from the city. Ryu has also taken the pledge to refuse fossil fuel and police money, although he had already received and spent police funds. He also pledged to refuse developer money, but still received such funds and claimed to have returned it.

About the Candidate

Raman, a trained urban planner, lives in the Silverlake neighborhood of Los Angeles. According to campaign materials, she is running to represent District 4 on the city council to build a more inclusive and just Los Angeles.

Raman is running on a strongly progressive platform that promises to center the voices and needs of underserved communities in Los Angeles. Her knowledge of policy is clearly demonstrated in her platform, which focuses on addressing housing and homelessness, responding to the climate emergency, and bringing Angelenos into the lawmaking process to increase transparency and accountability in city policymaking.

She is a co-founder of SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition, a local neighborhood-based organization formed in response to the city’s inaction on homelessness. She has also served as co-chair of the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council’s Homelessness Committee since 2017. Raman recently served as executive director of Time’s Up Entertainment, the women’s rights movement furthering equity and safety for women in the entertainment industry. Raman’s relationships in entertainment are strong, and her campaign is based on partnering with artists and performers as a rallying force for its organizing efforts.

Raman is the best choice because of her strong understanding of the challenges facing the city of Los Angeles as detailed in her policy platform, her track record of leading the way in standing up for communities under attack, and her ability to connect with and engage people currently outside of the political process.

While endorsements are split in the race, Raman’s endorsers are, on the whole, the most progressive in the district, while Ryu’s tend to be more moderate. According to our analysis, Raman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: The Working Families Party

Los Angeles, District 10

Los Angeles City Council, District 10

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

Los Angeles is governed by a 15-person city council. A city council is responsible for establishing policy, passing local laws (called ordinances), voting on budget appropriations, and developing an overall vision for the city. City council members in Los Angeles are ‎limited to three terms or 12 years in office total.

About the District

Los Angeles is Los Angeles County’s most populous city. The Los Angeles City Council oversees the needs of 3.99 million people and manages an estimated budget of $10.5 million annually. Los Angeles is managed by a mayor-council-commission structure government. Los Angeles’s District 10 includes a population of 244,937 across 52 neighborhoods, such as Koreatown, West Adams, Crenshaw, Jefferson Park, Wilshire, South Robertson, Baldwin Village, and Arlington Heights.

About the Race

Following the March 3 primary election, challenger Grace Yoo is trailing challenger Mark Ridley-Thomas by a margin of 20.7 percent. Yoo’s campaign has raised $593,667 and has pledged not to accept money from the fossil fuel industry. Ridley-Thomas’s campaign has raised $1,156,587 and is funded by the California Independent Petroleum Association, the Los Angeles Police Protective League, and Quest Diagnostics. While Grace Yoo would be new to political office, her community involvement has drawn criticism from partner organizations such as Ktown for All due to her fervent opposition to a homeless shelter being built in her neighborhood. Mark Ridley-Thomas’s 30 years in various offices have been fraught with scandals, including spending taxpayer dollars on personal property and advertising.

About the Candidates (presented in alphabetical order, with no implied preference)

No Recommendation

About the Candidate

Mark Ridley-Thomas

About the Candidate

No Recommendation

About the Candidate

Grace Yoo, an attorney and activist, is from Los Angeles. Yoo’s stated priorities for her district this term include updating planning and zoning laws, ensuring funding for regular street and park maintenance, identifying which tasks are assigned to law enforcement that could be better handled by other agencies, and demilitarizing the police. She has represented abused and neglected children for L.A. County’s Children’s Law Center, expanded language access in the courtroom as executive director of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association, and served as commissioner and vice president of the City of Los Angeles Department of Transportation.

Grace Yoo has been criticized for a lack of concrete policy proposals and for leading an anti-homeless campaign against a shelter proposal that involved using shipping container homes, tiny homes, and semi-permanent structures to house the homeless.

Yoo also seems to support a problematic approach to criminal justice reform, suggesting that she does not believe in systemic racism or understand the over policing of Black, brown, and lower-income communities.

Due to Grace Yoo’s conflicted stances on treating unhoused citizens and law enforcement reform, we cannot recommend her for your progressive vote.

Grace Yoo

About the Candidate

Los Angeles Community College Board

Los Angeles Community College Trustee, Seat No. 1

Charné Tunson

Website
Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.\

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Charné Tunson, a former Crenshaw High School teacher, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Tunson and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to teaching at Crenshaw High School, her alma mater, Charné Tunson recently founded the Tunson Leadership Foundation, aiming to impart the importance of community engagement and mentorship within local communities.

According to our analysis, Charné Tunson and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Last updated: 2023-04-05
Charné Tunson
Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.\

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Charné Tunson, a former Crenshaw High School teacher, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Tunson and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:

“Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.

Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.

Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”

Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to teaching at Crenshaw High School, her alma mater, Charné Tunson recently founded the Tunson Leadership Foundation, aiming to impart the importance of community engagement and mentorship within local communities.

According to our analysis, Charné Tunson and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Charné Tunson

Community College

Los Angeles Community College
Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.\

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Charné Tunson, a former Crenshaw High School teacher, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Tunson and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to teaching at Crenshaw High School, her alma mater, Charné Tunson recently founded the Tunson Leadership Foundation, aiming to impart the importance of community engagement and mentorship within local communities.

According to our analysis, Charné Tunson and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Charné Tunson
Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.\

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Charné Tunson, a former Crenshaw High School teacher, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Tunson and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:

“Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.

Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.

Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”

Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to teaching at Crenshaw High School, her alma mater, Charné Tunson recently founded the Tunson Leadership Foundation, aiming to impart the importance of community engagement and mentorship within local communities.

According to our analysis, Charné Tunson and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Charné Tunson

Community College

Los Angeles Community College

Charné Tunson

Website
Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.\

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Charné Tunson, a former Crenshaw High School teacher, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Tunson and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to teaching at Crenshaw High School, her alma mater, Charné Tunson recently founded the Tunson Leadership Foundation, aiming to impart the importance of community engagement and mentorship within local communities.

According to our analysis, Charné Tunson and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Last updated: 2023-04-05

Los Angeles Community College Trustee, Seat No. 3

Sylvia Brooks Griffin

Website
Elect Sylvia Brooks Griffin to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Sylvia Brooks Griffin, a special-needs advocate who is active with LAUSD and the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Griffin and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Sylvia Brooks Griffin and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Last updated: 2023-04-05
Sylvia Brooks Griffin
Elect Sylvia Brooks Griffin to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Sylvia Brooks Griffin, a special-needs advocate who is active with LAUSD and the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Griffin and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:

“Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.

Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.

Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”

Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Sylvia Brooks Griffin and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Sylvia Brooks Griffin

Community College

Los Angeles Community College
Elect Sylvia Brooks Griffin to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Sylvia Brooks Griffin, a special-needs advocate who is active with LAUSD and the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Griffin and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Sylvia Brooks Griffin and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Sylvia Brooks Griffin
Elect Sylvia Brooks Griffin to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Sylvia Brooks Griffin, a special-needs advocate who is active with LAUSD and the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Griffin and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:

“Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.

Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.

Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”

Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Sylvia Brooks Griffin and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Sylvia Brooks Griffin

Community College

Los Angeles Community College

Sylvia Brooks Griffin

Website
Elect Sylvia Brooks Griffin to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

About the Candidate

Sylvia Brooks Griffin, a special-needs advocate who is active with LAUSD and the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Griffin and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Sylvia Brooks Griffin and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Last updated: 2023-04-05

Los Angeles Community College Trustee, Seat No. 5

Two candidates in this district offer the chance to make LACC more reflective of its highly diverse student population, Dr. Nichet James-Gray and Nichelle M. Henderson.

About the Position

Members of the Los Angeles Community College District Board are elected at large for terms of four years. Elections are held every two years, with three members being chosen at one election and four members at the other.

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

Nichelle M. Henderson

Website Endorsements
Nichelle M. Henderson, an academic faculty advisor and teacher/lecturer at California State University Los Angeles, is a lifelong LA resident. She is a leader in the California Faculty Association (CFA)/SEIU 1983 where she is CSULA Chapter Vice President, a member and former Chair of the Faculty Rights Team, and a member of the statewide Bargaining and Representation Teams. In addition to her union work, Nichelle is actively involved in several community based clubs and committees, serving as the 1st Vice President of the Los Angeles African American Women PAC and an elected delegate to the Los Angeles County Democratic Central Committee representing Assembly District 66; where she serves as the Co-Chair of the Credentials Team and Region 5 Vice Chair. If elected to office, Henderson promises to focus on increasing funding and offering greater accountability to students and citizens, enhancing student services such as academic and mental health counseling, offering vocational education and dual enrollment for high school Juniors and Senior, and improving outreach and recruitment to underserved groups such as people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, foster youth, and the formerly incarcerated.

Nichelle M. Henderson is endorsed by many progressive organizations such as the Stonewall Young Democrats/Democratic Club, the San Fernando Valley Young Democrats, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Women Count, a number of local trade unions, and Courage California endorsee Holly J. Mitchell. According to our analysis, Nichelle M. Henderson will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Nichelle M. Henderson

Nichelle M. Henderson, an academic faculty advisor and teacher/lecturer at California State University Los Angeles, is a lifelong LA resident. She is a leader in the California Faculty Association (CFA)/SEIU 1983 where she is CSULA Chapter Vice President, a member and former Chair of the Faculty Rights Team, and a member of the statewide Bargaining and Representation Teams. In addition to her union work, Nichelle is actively involved in several community based clubs and committees, serving as the 1st Vice President of the Los Angeles African American Women PAC and an elected delegate to the Los Angeles County Democratic Central Committee representing Assembly District 66; where she serves as the Co-Chair of the Credentials Team and Region 5 Vice Chair. If elected to office, Henderson promises to focus on increasing funding and offering greater accountability to students and citizens, enhancing student services such as academic and mental health counseling, offering vocational education and dual enrollment for high school Juniors and Senior, and improving outreach and recruitment to underserved groups such as people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, foster youth, and the formerly incarcerated.

Nichelle M. Henderson is endorsed by many progressive organizations such as the Stonewall Young Democrats/Democratic Club, the San Fernando Valley Young Democrats, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Women Count, a number of local trade unions, and Courage California endorsee Holly J. Mitchell. According to our analysis, Nichelle M. Henderson will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Nichelle M. Henderson

Community College

Los Angeles Community College

Nichelle M. Henderson, an academic faculty advisor and teacher/lecturer at California State University Los Angeles, is a lifelong LA resident. She is a leader in the California Faculty Association (CFA)/SEIU 1983 where she is CSULA Chapter Vice President, a member and former Chair of the Faculty Rights Team, and a member of the statewide Bargaining and Representation Teams. In addition to her union work, Nichelle is actively involved in several community based clubs and committees, serving as the 1st Vice President of the Los Angeles African American Women PAC and an elected delegate to the Los Angeles County Democratic Central Committee representing Assembly District 66; where she serves as the Co-Chair of the Credentials Team and Region 5 Vice Chair. If elected to office, Henderson promises to focus on increasing funding and offering greater accountability to students and citizens, enhancing student services such as academic and mental health counseling, offering vocational education and dual enrollment for high school Juniors and Senior, and improving outreach and recruitment to underserved groups such as people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, foster youth, and the formerly incarcerated.

Nichelle M. Henderson is endorsed by many progressive organizations such as the Stonewall Young Democrats/Democratic Club, the San Fernando Valley Young Democrats, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Women Count, a number of local trade unions, and Courage California endorsee Holly J. Mitchell. According to our analysis, Nichelle M. Henderson will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Nichelle M. Henderson

Nichelle M. Henderson, an academic faculty advisor and teacher/lecturer at California State University Los Angeles, is a lifelong LA resident. She is a leader in the California Faculty Association (CFA)/SEIU 1983 where she is CSULA Chapter Vice President, a member and former Chair of the Faculty Rights Team, and a member of the statewide Bargaining and Representation Teams. In addition to her union work, Nichelle is actively involved in several community based clubs and committees, serving as the 1st Vice President of the Los Angeles African American Women PAC and an elected delegate to the Los Angeles County Democratic Central Committee representing Assembly District 66; where she serves as the Co-Chair of the Credentials Team and Region 5 Vice Chair. If elected to office, Henderson promises to focus on increasing funding and offering greater accountability to students and citizens, enhancing student services such as academic and mental health counseling, offering vocational education and dual enrollment for high school Juniors and Senior, and improving outreach and recruitment to underserved groups such as people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, foster youth, and the formerly incarcerated.

Nichelle M. Henderson is endorsed by many progressive organizations such as the Stonewall Young Democrats/Democratic Club, the San Fernando Valley Young Democrats, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Women Count, a number of local trade unions, and Courage California endorsee Holly J. Mitchell. According to our analysis, Nichelle M. Henderson will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Nichelle M. Henderson

Community College

Los Angeles Community College

Dr. Nichet James-Gray

Website
Dr. Nichet James-Gray, a teacher and proud LACC parent, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. James-Gray and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Dr. Nichet James-Gray and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Last updated: 2023-04-05
Dr. Nichet James-Gray
Dr. Nichet James-Gray, a teacher and proud LACC parent, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. James-Gray and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:

“Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.

Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.

Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”

Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Dr. Nichet James-Gray and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Dr. Nichet James-Gray

Community College

Los Angeles Community College
Dr. Nichet James-Gray, a teacher and proud LACC parent, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. James-Gray and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Dr. Nichet James-Gray and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Dr. Nichet James-Gray
Dr. Nichet James-Gray, a teacher and proud LACC parent, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. James-Gray and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:

“Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.

Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.

Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”

Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

According to our analysis, Dr. Nichet James-Gray and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Dr. Nichet James-Gray

Community College

Los Angeles Community College

Los Angeles Community College Trustee, Seat No. 7

Two candidates in this district offer the chance for progressive leadership: Incumbent Mike Fong, a policy director and community advocate, and Raquel Watts, a workers compensation lawyer and community volunteer.

About the Position

About the District

The Los Angeles Community College District is located in Los Angeles County and includes nine colleges, serving a population of roughly 240,000 Californians.

Mike Fong

Website Endorsements
Elect Mike Fong to continue progressive and equitable leadership for the diverse LACCD community.

Mike Fong, a lifelong Angeleno and the District 7 incumbent, currently serves as Director of Policy and Government Relations for the City of Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment. As an LACCD board member, Fong created job-training programs and collaborated with Mayor Eric Garcetti on the Los Angeles College Promise program, making two years of community college tuition-free expanding college access for thousands of local students. He supported the creation of Dream Resource Centers and secured additional resources and partnerships to address food insecurity and housing insecurity. Fong also supported the African American Outreach Initiative and LACCD Framework for Racial Equity and Social Justice.

According to campaign materials, Mike Fong’s continued goals for his next term include expanding workforce education and high-growth sector job training programs, expanding dual enrollment programs enabling high school students to enroll in college courses, and increasing access to distance learning technology.

Additionally, Mike Fong’s long record of community leadership includes serving as Chair of the PBS Southern California Asian Pacific Islander Community Council, Vice Chair of the White Memorial Medical Center Community Leadership Council, and Southern Vice Chair of the California Democratic Party’s Asian Pacific Islander Caucus.

According to our analysis, Mike Fong will continue to provide progressive and equitable leadership for the diverse LACCD community.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Mike Fong

Elect Mike Fong to continue progressive and equitable leadership for the diverse LACCD community.

Mike Fong, a lifelong Angeleno and the District 7 incumbent, currently serves as Director of Policy and Government Relations for the City of Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment. As an LACCD board member, Fong created job-training programs and collaborated with Mayor Eric Garcetti on the Los Angeles College Promise program, making two years of community college tuition-free expanding college access for thousands of local students. He supported the creation of Dream Resource Centers and secured additional resources and partnerships to address food insecurity and housing insecurity. Fong also supported the African American Outreach Initiative and LACCD Framework for Racial Equity and Social Justice.

According to campaign materials, Mike Fong’s continued goals for his next term include expanding workforce education and high-growth sector job training programs, expanding dual enrollment programs enabling high school students to enroll in college courses, and increasing access to distance learning technology.

Additionally, Mike Fong’s long record of community leadership includes serving as Chair of the PBS Southern California Asian Pacific Islander Community Council, Vice Chair of the White Memorial Medical Center Community Leadership Council, and Southern Vice Chair of the California Democratic Party’s Asian Pacific Islander Caucus.

According to our analysis, Mike Fong will continue to provide progressive and equitable leadership for the diverse LACCD community.

Read more about Mike Fong

Community College

Los Angeles Community College

Elect Mike Fong to continue progressive and equitable leadership for the diverse LACCD community.

Mike Fong, a lifelong Angeleno and the District 7 incumbent, currently serves as Director of Policy and Government Relations for the City of Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment. As an LACCD board member, Fong created job-training programs and collaborated with Mayor Eric Garcetti on the Los Angeles College Promise program, making two years of community college tuition-free expanding college access for thousands of local students. He supported the creation of Dream Resource Centers and secured additional resources and partnerships to address food insecurity and housing insecurity. Fong also supported the African American Outreach Initiative and LACCD Framework for Racial Equity and Social Justice.

According to campaign materials, Mike Fong’s continued goals for his next term include expanding workforce education and high-growth sector job training programs, expanding dual enrollment programs enabling high school students to enroll in college courses, and increasing access to distance learning technology.

Additionally, Mike Fong’s long record of community leadership includes serving as Chair of the PBS Southern California Asian Pacific Islander Community Council, Vice Chair of the White Memorial Medical Center Community Leadership Council, and Southern Vice Chair of the California Democratic Party’s Asian Pacific Islander Caucus.

According to our analysis, Mike Fong will continue to provide progressive and equitable leadership for the diverse LACCD community.

Mike Fong

Elect Mike Fong to continue progressive and equitable leadership for the diverse LACCD community.

Mike Fong, a lifelong Angeleno and the District 7 incumbent, currently serves as Director of Policy and Government Relations for the City of Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment. As an LACCD board member, Fong created job-training programs and collaborated with Mayor Eric Garcetti on the Los Angeles College Promise program, making two years of community college tuition-free expanding college access for thousands of local students. He supported the creation of Dream Resource Centers and secured additional resources and partnerships to address food insecurity and housing insecurity. Fong also supported the African American Outreach Initiative and LACCD Framework for Racial Equity and Social Justice.

According to campaign materials, Mike Fong’s continued goals for his next term include expanding workforce education and high-growth sector job training programs, expanding dual enrollment programs enabling high school students to enroll in college courses, and increasing access to distance learning technology.

Additionally, Mike Fong’s long record of community leadership includes serving as Chair of the PBS Southern California Asian Pacific Islander Community Council, Vice Chair of the White Memorial Medical Center Community Leadership Council, and Southern Vice Chair of the California Democratic Party’s Asian Pacific Islander Caucus.

According to our analysis, Mike Fong will continue to provide progressive and equitable leadership for the diverse LACCD community.

Read more about Mike Fong

Community College

Los Angeles Community College

Raquel Watts

Website
Elect Raquel Watts to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

Raquel Watts, a legal representative serving injured workers in their fight for benefits, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Watts and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to her 28 years of service in the workers’ compensation field, Raquel Watts is a long-standing volunteer at Crenshaw Christian Center. As an undergraduate at USC, she was executive director of Troy Camp and president of the Student Committee on Admissions and Recruitment, advocating for underserved applicants.

According to our analysis, Raquel Watts and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Last updated: 2023-04-05
Raquel Watts
Elect Raquel Watts to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

Raquel Watts, a legal representative serving injured workers in their fight for benefits, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Watts and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:

“Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.

Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.

Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”

Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to her 28 years of service in the workers’ compensation field, Raquel Watts is a long-standing volunteer at Crenshaw Christian Center. As an undergraduate at USC, she was executive director of Troy Camp and president of the Student Committee on Admissions and Recruitment, advocating for underserved applicants.

According to our analysis, Raquel Watts and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Raquel Watts

Community College

Los Angeles Community College
Elect Raquel Watts to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

Raquel Watts, a legal representative serving injured workers in their fight for benefits, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Watts and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to her 28 years of service in the workers’ compensation field, Raquel Watts is a long-standing volunteer at Crenshaw Christian Center. As an undergraduate at USC, she was executive director of Troy Camp and president of the Student Committee on Admissions and Recruitment, advocating for underserved applicants.

According to our analysis, Raquel Watts and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Raquel Watts
Elect Raquel Watts to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

Raquel Watts, a legal representative serving injured workers in their fight for benefits, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Watts and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:

“Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.

Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.

Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.

Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”

Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to her 28 years of service in the workers’ compensation field, Raquel Watts is a long-standing volunteer at Crenshaw Christian Center. As an undergraduate at USC, she was executive director of Troy Camp and president of the Student Committee on Admissions and Recruitment, advocating for underserved applicants.

According to our analysis, Raquel Watts and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.

Read more about Raquel Watts

Community College

Los Angeles Community College

Raquel Watts

Website
Elect Raquel Watts to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

Raquel Watts, a legal representative serving injured workers in their fight for benefits, is running as part of a coalition called Justice 4 LACCD, a coalition of four Black women seeking to diversify the board to reflect the 74 percent POC and 56 percent women student population it serves. Watts and Justice 4 LACCD are running on the shared values of what they call “The 4 R’s,” which are defined on their website as the following:
- “Representation – We are a united group of women who will make up a Board of Trustees that truly reflects and speaks on behalf of the LACCD community it serves.
- Recruitment and Retention – Creating policy to attract, retain and support more students and faculty that are under-represented. This includes more women, students and faculty of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities.
- Reform – Designate a committee to investigate police policy and response on LACCD campuses.
- Response to COVID-19 – Position our Community Colleges to lead in creating an equitable COVID strategy that prioritizes the needs of the most impacted members of our community.”
Furthermore, the coalition promises to fight for the rights of part-time, disabled, and unhoused students, as well as those with health conditions that prevent them from regularly accessing a college campus.

In addition to her 28 years of service in the workers’ compensation field, Raquel Watts is a long-standing volunteer at Crenshaw Christian Center. As an undergraduate at USC, she was executive director of Troy Camp and president of the Student Committee on Admissions and Recruitment, advocating for underserved applicants.

According to our analysis, Raquel Watts and the Justice 4 LACCD coalition will provide leadership that promotes the shared interests of communities historically excluded from the policymaking process.
Last updated: 2023-04-05

Los Angeles Unified School District

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below school races on your ballot.

Los Angeles Unified School District, Board Member, District #3

Scott Mark Schmerelson

Website Endorsements
Elect Scott Mark Schmerelson to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Los Angeles Unified School District contains 1,177 schools, and serves over 646,000 students annually. Members of the Los Angeles Board of Education are elected by district, every four years.

About the District

Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest public school district in California, and the second largest in the nation. The district oversees a budget of $8.4 billion. The district is very diverse, composed primarily of Latinx students (73.4 percent), with African American students (10 percent) composing the second-largest group of students.

About the Candidate

Scott Mark Schmerelson, a current LAUSD board member representing District 3, is from Los Angeles, California. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue advocating for the future of LAUSD’s educational system, and making a difference for the children and communities within his district.

Schmerelson’s priorities for District 3 schools include improving funding, classroom safety, parent participation, and environmental justice. Schmerelson has committed to fighting for adequate funding for Los Angeles’s public schools to ensure that education is being prioritized at the same level as other states. His campaign also prioritizes advocating for classroom safety by promoting gun safety awareness and instituting annual safety procedures. In addition to classroom safety, Schmerelson’s campaign emphasizes the importance of transitioning to renewable energy. He is committed to reducing waste within schools, and closing nearby gas facilities to reduce students’ exposure to pollution. Schmerelson has also demonstrated an awareness of the need for parent participation, and plans to eliminate barriers that create difficulties for parent volunteers. Schmerelson's campaign is committed to increasing the number of library aides, and establishing early interventions and screenings for students with dyslexia.

Prior to his role on the Los Angeles Board of Education, Scott Schmerelson served as an educator and administrator for over 40 years. He has experience working in the classroom as a high school teacher, as well as in administration through his roles as middle school counselor, assistant principal, and principal. During his term as principal, Schmerelson improved test scores, infrastructure, and morale. His experience working within the Los Angeles school system provided him with the knowledge and passion he has translated into his work as a member of the Board of Education.

Scott Schmerelson is endorsed by a strong majority of progressive groups in the district. These endorsements include Planned Parenthood, Sierra Club, and ACCE Action, and multiple unions, including SEIU Local 99. Schmerelson is also endorsed by the Los Angeles School Police Department, which is of particular concern, considering the rise of police violence within Los Angeles schools.

According to our analysis, despite our concerns about Scott Schmerelson’s police support, he remains the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Scott Mark Schmerelson

Elect Scott Mark Schmerelson to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Elect Scott Mark Schmerelson to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Los Angeles Unified School District contains 1,177 schools, and serves over 646,000 students annually. Members of the Los Angeles Board of Education are elected by district, every four years.

About the District

Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest public school district in California, and the second largest in the nation. The district oversees a budget of $8.4 billion. The district is very diverse, composed primarily of Latinx students (73.4 percent), with African American students (10 percent) composing the second-largest group of students.

About the Candidate

Scott Mark Schmerelson, a current LAUSD board member representing District 3, is from Los Angeles, California. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue advocating for the future of LAUSD’s educational system, and making a difference for the children and communities within his district.

Schmerelson’s priorities for District 3 schools include improving funding, classroom safety, parent participation, and environmental justice. Schmerelson has committed to fighting for adequate funding for Los Angeles’s public schools to ensure that education is being prioritized at the same level as other states. His campaign also prioritizes advocating for classroom safety by promoting gun safety awareness and instituting annual safety procedures. In addition to classroom safety, Schmerelson’s campaign emphasizes the importance of transitioning to renewable energy. He is committed to reducing waste within schools, and closing nearby gas facilities to reduce students’ exposure to pollution. Schmerelson has also demonstrated an awareness of the need for parent participation, and plans to eliminate barriers that create difficulties for parent volunteers. Schmerelson's campaign is committed to increasing the number of library aides, and establishing early interventions and screenings for students with dyslexia.

Prior to his role on the Los Angeles Board of Education, Scott Schmerelson served as an educator and administrator for over 40 years. He has experience working in the classroom as a high school teacher, as well as in administration through his roles as middle school counselor, assistant principal, and principal. During his term as principal, Schmerelson improved test scores, infrastructure, and morale. His experience working within the Los Angeles school system provided him with the knowledge and passion he has translated into his work as a member of the Board of Education.

Scott Schmerelson is endorsed by a strong majority of progressive groups in the district. These endorsements include Planned Parenthood, Sierra Club, and ACCE Action, and multiple unions, including SEIU Local 99. Schmerelson is also endorsed by the Los Angeles School Police Department, which is of particular concern, considering the rise of police violence within Los Angeles schools.

According to our analysis, despite our concerns about Scott Schmerelson’s police support, he remains the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Scott Mark Schmerelson

Elect Scott Mark Schmerelson to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Elect Scott Mark Schmerelson to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Los Angeles Unified School District contains 1,177 schools, and serves over 646,000 students annually. Members of the Los Angeles Board of Education are elected by district, every four years.

About the District

Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest public school district in California, and the second largest in the nation. The district oversees a budget of $8.4 billion. The district is very diverse, composed primarily of Latinx students (73.4 percent), with African American students (10 percent) composing the second-largest group of students.

About the Candidate

Scott Mark Schmerelson, a current LAUSD board member representing District 3, is from Los Angeles, California. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue advocating for the future of LAUSD’s educational system, and making a difference for the children and communities within his district.

Schmerelson’s priorities for District 3 schools include improving funding, classroom safety, parent participation, and environmental justice. Schmerelson has committed to fighting for adequate funding for Los Angeles’s public schools to ensure that education is being prioritized at the same level as other states. His campaign also prioritizes advocating for classroom safety by promoting gun safety awareness and instituting annual safety procedures. In addition to classroom safety, Schmerelson’s campaign emphasizes the importance of transitioning to renewable energy. He is committed to reducing waste within schools, and closing nearby gas facilities to reduce students’ exposure to pollution. Schmerelson has also demonstrated an awareness of the need for parent participation, and plans to eliminate barriers that create difficulties for parent volunteers. Schmerelson's campaign is committed to increasing the number of library aides, and establishing early interventions and screenings for students with dyslexia.

Prior to his role on the Los Angeles Board of Education, Scott Schmerelson served as an educator and administrator for over 40 years. He has experience working in the classroom as a high school teacher, as well as in administration through his roles as middle school counselor, assistant principal, and principal. During his term as principal, Schmerelson improved test scores, infrastructure, and morale. His experience working within the Los Angeles school system provided him with the knowledge and passion he has translated into his work as a member of the Board of Education.

Scott Schmerelson is endorsed by a strong majority of progressive groups in the district. These endorsements include Planned Parenthood, Sierra Club, and ACCE Action, and multiple unions, including SEIU Local 99. Schmerelson is also endorsed by the Los Angeles School Police Department, which is of particular concern, considering the rise of police violence within Los Angeles schools.

According to our analysis, despite our concerns about Scott Schmerelson’s police support, he remains the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Scott Mark Schmerelson

Website Endorsements
Elect Scott Mark Schmerelson to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Los Angeles Unified School District contains 1,177 schools, and serves over 646,000 students annually. Members of the Los Angeles Board of Education are elected by district, every four years.

About the District

Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest public school district in California, and the second largest in the nation. The district oversees a budget of $8.4 billion. The district is very diverse, composed primarily of Latinx students (73.4 percent), with African American students (10 percent) composing the second-largest group of students.

About the Candidate

Scott Mark Schmerelson, a current LAUSD board member representing District 3, is from Los Angeles, California. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue advocating for the future of LAUSD’s educational system, and making a difference for the children and communities within his district.

Schmerelson’s priorities for District 3 schools include improving funding, classroom safety, parent participation, and environmental justice. Schmerelson has committed to fighting for adequate funding for Los Angeles’s public schools to ensure that education is being prioritized at the same level as other states. His campaign also prioritizes advocating for classroom safety by promoting gun safety awareness and instituting annual safety procedures. In addition to classroom safety, Schmerelson’s campaign emphasizes the importance of transitioning to renewable energy. He is committed to reducing waste within schools, and closing nearby gas facilities to reduce students’ exposure to pollution. Schmerelson has also demonstrated an awareness of the need for parent participation, and plans to eliminate barriers that create difficulties for parent volunteers. Schmerelson's campaign is committed to increasing the number of library aides, and establishing early interventions and screenings for students with dyslexia.

Prior to his role on the Los Angeles Board of Education, Scott Schmerelson served as an educator and administrator for over 40 years. He has experience working in the classroom as a high school teacher, as well as in administration through his roles as middle school counselor, assistant principal, and principal. During his term as principal, Schmerelson improved test scores, infrastructure, and morale. His experience working within the Los Angeles school system provided him with the knowledge and passion he has translated into his work as a member of the Board of Education.

Scott Schmerelson is endorsed by a strong majority of progressive groups in the district. These endorsements include Planned Parenthood, Sierra Club, and ACCE Action, and multiple unions, including SEIU Local 99. Schmerelson is also endorsed by the Los Angeles School Police Department, which is of particular concern, considering the rise of police violence within Los Angeles schools.

According to our analysis, despite our concerns about Scott Schmerelson’s police support, he remains the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Los Angeles Unified School District, Board Member, District #7

Patricia Castellanos

Website Endorsements
Elect Patricia Castellanos to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Los Angeles Unified School District contains 1,177 schools, and serves over 646,000 students annually. Members of the Los Angeles Board of Education are elected by district, every four years. \

About the District

Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest public school district in California, and the second largest in the nation. The district oversees a budget of $8.4 billion. The district is very diverse, composed primarily of Latinx students (73.4 percent), with African American students (10 percent) composing the second-largest group of students.

About the Candidate

Patricia Castellanos is a workforce and economic development deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, and is a lifelong resident of LAUSD District 7. According to campaign materials, she is running for election to protect and strengthen local public schools, protect students from environmental pollution, and improve funding and quality of LAUSD education.

Castellanos’s priorities for LAUSD District 7 include improving classroom safety, quality, investment, and student support. As a parent supporting her own child with distance learning, she is committed to prioritizing COVID-19 relief and safe recovery for Los Angeles schools. Castellanos also understands the need to improve the quality of education within classrooms, and will fight to decrease class sizes, and increase the number of mental health and special education services and programs. Castellanos is also committed to finding revenue to reinvest funding into public education.

Patricia Castellanos is a longtime community organizer, with over 20 years of experience championing issues related to education. She has worked as director of Policy Training and Education at Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education and now serves as the workforce and economic development deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl. Through her positions, Castellanos has created opportunities for vulnerable, young and low-income populations. She has advocated for communities facing issues of homelessness and juvenile criminalization, and worked with L.A. County departments to ensure COVID-19 protections for small businesses and workers. Above all, Castellanos has demonstrated an awareness and commitment to address issues facing communities within District 7. She has experience organizing to address the historic disinvestment of Black and brown communities in South L.A. Her advocacy is fueled by her experience as a daughter of immigrant workers and mother of a child attending public schools in LAUSD District 7.

Castellanos is endorsed by numerous Democratic Party, teacher, labor, women's rights, and grassroots organizations. These include United Teachers Los Angeles, United Farm Workers, Sierra Club, ACCE Action, and Planned Parenthood--just to name a few. Castellanos has also received endorsements from a number of notable individuals, including U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, LAUSD Board President Dr. Richard Vladovi, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, and civil rights and labor leader Dolores Huerta.

According to our analysis, Patricia Castellanos is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Elect Patricia Castellanos to keep Los Angeles on the right track. Patricia Castellanos is a Workforce and Economic Development Deputy for LA County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, and is a lifelong resident of LAUSD District 7. According to campaign materials, she is running for election to protect and strengthen local public schools, protect students from environmental pollution, and improve funding and quality of LAUSD education.

Elect Patricia Castellanos to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Los Angeles Unified School District contains 1,177 schools, and serves over 646,000 students annually. Members of the Los Angeles Board of Education are elected by district, every four years. \

About the District

Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest public school district in California, and the second largest in the nation. The district oversees a budget of $8.4 billion. The district is very diverse, composed primarily of Latinx students (73.4 percent), with African American students (10 percent) composing the second-largest group of students.

About the Candidate

Patricia Castellanos is a workforce and economic development deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, and is a lifelong resident of LAUSD District 7. According to campaign materials, she is running for election to protect and strengthen local public schools, protect students from environmental pollution, and improve funding and quality of LAUSD education.

Castellanos’s priorities for LAUSD District 7 include improving classroom safety, quality, investment, and student support. As a parent supporting her own child with distance learning, she is committed to prioritizing COVID-19 relief and safe recovery for Los Angeles schools. Castellanos also understands the need to improve the quality of education within classrooms, and will fight to decrease class sizes, and increase the number of mental health and special education services and programs. Castellanos is also committed to finding revenue to reinvest funding into public education.

Patricia Castellanos is a longtime community organizer, with over 20 years of experience championing issues related to education. She has worked as director of Policy Training and Education at Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education and now serves as the workforce and economic development deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl. Through her positions, Castellanos has created opportunities for vulnerable, young and low-income populations. She has advocated for communities facing issues of homelessness and juvenile criminalization, and worked with L.A. County departments to ensure COVID-19 protections for small businesses and workers. Above all, Castellanos has demonstrated an awareness and commitment to address issues facing communities within District 7. She has experience organizing to address the historic disinvestment of Black and brown communities in South L.A. Her advocacy is fueled by her experience as a daughter of immigrant workers and mother of a child attending public schools in LAUSD District 7.

Castellanos is endorsed by numerous Democratic Party, teacher, labor, women's rights, and grassroots organizations. These include United Teachers Los Angeles, United Farm Workers, Sierra Club, ACCE Action, and Planned Parenthood--just to name a few. Castellanos has also received endorsements from a number of notable individuals, including U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, LAUSD Board President Dr. Richard Vladovi, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, and civil rights and labor leader Dolores Huerta.

According to our analysis, Patricia Castellanos is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Elect Patricia Castellanos to keep Los Angeles on the right track. Patricia Castellanos is a Workforce and Economic Development Deputy for LA County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, and is a lifelong resident of LAUSD District 7. According to campaign materials, she is running for election to protect and strengthen local public schools, protect students from environmental pollution, and improve funding and quality of LAUSD education.

Elect Patricia Castellanos to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Los Angeles Unified School District contains 1,177 schools, and serves over 646,000 students annually. Members of the Los Angeles Board of Education are elected by district, every four years. \

About the District

About the Candidate

Patricia Castellanos is a workforce and economic development deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, and is a lifelong resident of LAUSD District 7. According to campaign materials, she is running for election to protect and strengthen local public schools, protect students from environmental pollution, and improve funding and quality of LAUSD education.

Castellanos’s priorities for LAUSD District 7 include improving classroom safety, quality, investment, and student support. As a parent supporting her own child with distance learning, she is committed to prioritizing COVID-19 relief and safe recovery for Los Angeles schools. Castellanos also understands the need to improve the quality of education within classrooms, and will fight to decrease class sizes, and increase the number of mental health and special education services and programs. Castellanos is also committed to finding revenue to reinvest funding into public education.

Patricia Castellanos is a longtime community organizer, with over 20 years of experience championing issues related to education. She has worked as director of Policy Training and Education at Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education and now serves as the workforce and economic development deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl. Through her positions, Castellanos has created opportunities for vulnerable, young and low-income populations. She has advocated for communities facing issues of homelessness and juvenile criminalization, and worked with L.A. County departments to ensure COVID-19 protections for small businesses and workers. Above all, Castellanos has demonstrated an awareness and commitment to address issues facing communities within District 7. She has experience organizing to address the historic disinvestment of Black and brown communities in South L.A. Her advocacy is fueled by her experience as a daughter of immigrant workers and mother of a child attending public schools in LAUSD District 7.

Castellanos is endorsed by numerous Democratic Party, teacher, labor, women's rights, and grassroots organizations. These include United Teachers Los Angeles, United Farm Workers, Sierra Club, ACCE Action, and Planned Parenthood--just to name a few. Castellanos has also received endorsements from a number of notable individuals, including U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, LAUSD Board President Dr. Richard Vladovi, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, and civil rights and labor leader Dolores Huerta.

According to our analysis, Patricia Castellanos is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Patricia Castellanos

Website Endorsements
Elect Patricia Castellanos to keep Los Angeles on the right track.

About the Position

Los Angeles Unified School District contains 1,177 schools, and serves over 646,000 students annually. Members of the Los Angeles Board of Education are elected by district, every four years. \

About the District

Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest public school district in California, and the second largest in the nation. The district oversees a budget of $8.4 billion. The district is very diverse, composed primarily of Latinx students (73.4 percent), with African American students (10 percent) composing the second-largest group of students.

About the Candidate

Patricia Castellanos is a workforce and economic development deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, and is a lifelong resident of LAUSD District 7. According to campaign materials, she is running for election to protect and strengthen local public schools, protect students from environmental pollution, and improve funding and quality of LAUSD education.

Castellanos’s priorities for LAUSD District 7 include improving classroom safety, quality, investment, and student support. As a parent supporting her own child with distance learning, she is committed to prioritizing COVID-19 relief and safe recovery for Los Angeles schools. Castellanos also understands the need to improve the quality of education within classrooms, and will fight to decrease class sizes, and increase the number of mental health and special education services and programs. Castellanos is also committed to finding revenue to reinvest funding into public education.

Patricia Castellanos is a longtime community organizer, with over 20 years of experience championing issues related to education. She has worked as director of Policy Training and Education at Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education and now serves as the workforce and economic development deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl. Through her positions, Castellanos has created opportunities for vulnerable, young and low-income populations. She has advocated for communities facing issues of homelessness and juvenile criminalization, and worked with L.A. County departments to ensure COVID-19 protections for small businesses and workers. Above all, Castellanos has demonstrated an awareness and commitment to address issues facing communities within District 7. She has experience organizing to address the historic disinvestment of Black and brown communities in South L.A. Her advocacy is fueled by her experience as a daughter of immigrant workers and mother of a child attending public schools in LAUSD District 7.

Castellanos is endorsed by numerous Democratic Party, teacher, labor, women's rights, and grassroots organizations. These include United Teachers Los Angeles, United Farm Workers, Sierra Club, ACCE Action, and Planned Parenthood--just to name a few. Castellanos has also received endorsements from a number of notable individuals, including U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, LAUSD Board President Dr. Richard Vladovi, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, and civil rights and labor leader Dolores Huerta.

According to our analysis, Patricia Castellanos is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Senate

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State Senate races on your ballot.

State Senator, 27th District

Member of the State Senate

Democrat
Henry Stern
Re-elect State Senate Representative Henry Stern to keep SD-27 on the right track.

About the Position

State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating legislation that addresses issues within their district, as well as voting and debating on preexisting laws. The California State Senate has 40 congressional districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate's 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 29 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 11 seats.

About the District

California's 27th Senate District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show SD-27 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Henry Stern led Republican challenger Houman Salem by a margin of 27.6 percent. Stern’s campaign has raised $1,114,716 and has pledged to accept no money from the fossil fuel industry. Salem’s campaign has raised $19,080 and has not committed to any such pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Henry Stern, an environmental attorney and community activist, is from Malibu, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Stern is running for re-election to promote renewable-energy technology, end trophy hunting, and divert funds toward backup power and firefighting resources.

Sen. Stern’s priorities for SD-27 this year include expanding official state recognition of the climate-change crisis, further protecting our endangered species, and building microgrids to reduce blackouts. He currently sits on eight committees: the Natural Resources and Water Committee (chair); Climate Change Policies Committee (vice chair); Arts Committee; Budget and Fiscal Review Committee; Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee; Environmental Quality Committee; Elections and Constitutional Amendments Committee; and Judiciary Committee. Sen. Stern has sponsored 141 bills this year about such topics as gun violence prevention, education finance, fire safety, and exempting feminine hygiene products from taxation, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a Lifetime 80 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Stern has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Sen. Stern has not supported expanding Medi-Cal coverage to noncitizens or banning the use of biometric surveillance and facial-recognition technology from use in police body cameras.

Prior to his election to the State Senate, Sen. Henry Stern worked as an environmental lawyer, counseled Congressman Henry Waxman on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and taught civics in local schools. He is a longtime supporter of environmental conservation and animal rights.

Rep. Henry Stern is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. In his previous campaign, he was endorsed by the Association of Los Angeles County Sheriffs and California Association of Highway Patrolmen. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Houman Salem’s potential policies greatly outweighs Rep. Stern’s occasionally moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Henry Stern is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Henry Stern

Re-elect State Senate Representative Henry Stern to keep SD-27 on the right track.

About the Position

Re-elect State Senate Representative Henry Stern to keep SD-27 on the right track.

About the Position

State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating legislation that addresses issues within their district, as well as voting and debating on preexisting laws. The California State Senate has 40 congressional districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate's 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 29 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 11 seats.

About the District

California's 27th Senate District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show SD-27 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Henry Stern led Republican challenger Houman Salem by a margin of 27.6 percent. Stern’s campaign has raised $1,114,716 and has pledged to accept no money from the fossil fuel industry. Salem’s campaign has raised $19,080 and has not committed to any such pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Henry Stern, an environmental attorney and community activist, is from Malibu, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Stern is running for re-election to promote renewable-energy technology, end trophy hunting, and divert funds toward backup power and firefighting resources.

Sen. Stern’s priorities for SD-27 this year include expanding official state recognition of the climate-change crisis, further protecting our endangered species, and building microgrids to reduce blackouts. He currently sits on eight committees: the Natural Resources and Water Committee (chair); Climate Change Policies Committee (vice chair); Arts Committee; Budget and Fiscal Review Committee; Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee; Environmental Quality Committee; Elections and Constitutional Amendments Committee; and Judiciary Committee. Sen. Stern has sponsored 141 bills this year about such topics as gun violence prevention, education finance, fire safety, and exempting feminine hygiene products from taxation, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a Lifetime 80 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Stern has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Sen. Stern has not supported expanding Medi-Cal coverage to noncitizens or banning the use of biometric surveillance and facial-recognition technology from use in police body cameras.

Prior to his election to the State Senate, Sen. Henry Stern worked as an environmental lawyer, counseled Congressman Henry Waxman on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and taught civics in local schools. He is a longtime supporter of environmental conservation and animal rights.

Rep. Henry Stern is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. In his previous campaign, he was endorsed by the Association of Los Angeles County Sheriffs and California Association of Highway Patrolmen. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Houman Salem’s potential policies greatly outweighs Rep. Stern’s occasionally moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Henry Stern is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Henry Stern

Re-elect State Senate Representative Henry Stern to keep SD-27 on the right track.

About the Position

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Teachers Association, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, NARAL Pro-Choice California, SEIU CA, Sierra Club California, United Farm Workers

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/henry-stern/

Re-elect State Senate Representative Henry Stern to keep SD-27 on the right track.

About the Position

State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating legislation that addresses issues within their district, as well as voting and debating on preexisting laws. The California State Senate has 40 congressional districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate's 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 29 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 11 seats.

About the District

California's 27th Senate District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show SD-27 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Henry Stern led Republican challenger Houman Salem by a margin of 27.6 percent. Stern’s campaign has raised $1,114,716 and has pledged to accept no money from the fossil fuel industry. Salem’s campaign has raised $19,080 and has not committed to any such pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Henry Stern, an environmental attorney and community activist, is from Malibu, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Stern is running for re-election to promote renewable-energy technology, end trophy hunting, and divert funds toward backup power and firefighting resources.

Sen. Stern’s priorities for SD-27 this year include expanding official state recognition of the climate-change crisis, further protecting our endangered species, and building microgrids to reduce blackouts. He currently sits on eight committees: the Natural Resources and Water Committee (chair); Climate Change Policies Committee (vice chair); Arts Committee; Budget and Fiscal Review Committee; Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee; Environmental Quality Committee; Elections and Constitutional Amendments Committee; and Judiciary Committee. Sen. Stern has sponsored 141 bills this year about such topics as gun violence prevention, education finance, fire safety, and exempting feminine hygiene products from taxation, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a Lifetime 80 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Stern has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Sen. Stern has not supported expanding Medi-Cal coverage to noncitizens or banning the use of biometric surveillance and facial-recognition technology from use in police body cameras.

Prior to his election to the State Senate, Sen. Henry Stern worked as an environmental lawyer, counseled Congressman Henry Waxman on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and taught civics in local schools. He is a longtime supporter of environmental conservation and animal rights.

Rep. Henry Stern is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. In his previous campaign, he was endorsed by the Association of Los Angeles County Sheriffs and California Association of Highway Patrolmen. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Houman Salem’s potential policies greatly outweighs Rep. Stern’s occasionally moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Henry Stern is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Henry Stern
Re-elect State Senate Representative Henry Stern to keep SD-27 on the right track.

About the Position

State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating legislation that addresses issues within their district, as well as voting and debating on preexisting laws. The California State Senate has 40 congressional districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate's 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 29 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 11 seats.

About the District

California's 27th Senate District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show SD-27 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Henry Stern led Republican challenger Houman Salem by a margin of 27.6 percent. Stern’s campaign has raised $1,114,716 and has pledged to accept no money from the fossil fuel industry. Salem’s campaign has raised $19,080 and has not committed to any such pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Henry Stern, an environmental attorney and community activist, is from Malibu, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Stern is running for re-election to promote renewable-energy technology, end trophy hunting, and divert funds toward backup power and firefighting resources.

Sen. Stern’s priorities for SD-27 this year include expanding official state recognition of the climate-change crisis, further protecting our endangered species, and building microgrids to reduce blackouts. He currently sits on eight committees: the Natural Resources and Water Committee (chair); Climate Change Policies Committee (vice chair); Arts Committee; Budget and Fiscal Review Committee; Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee; Environmental Quality Committee; Elections and Constitutional Amendments Committee; and Judiciary Committee. Sen. Stern has sponsored 141 bills this year about such topics as gun violence prevention, education finance, fire safety, and exempting feminine hygiene products from taxation, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a Lifetime 80 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Stern has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Sen. Stern has not supported expanding Medi-Cal coverage to noncitizens or banning the use of biometric surveillance and facial-recognition technology from use in police body cameras.

Prior to his election to the State Senate, Sen. Henry Stern worked as an environmental lawyer, counseled Congressman Henry Waxman on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and taught civics in local schools. He is a longtime supporter of environmental conservation and animal rights.

Rep. Henry Stern is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. In his previous campaign, he was endorsed by the Association of Los Angeles County Sheriffs and California Association of Highway Patrolmen. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Houman Salem’s potential policies greatly outweighs Rep. Stern’s occasionally moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Henry Stern is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Senator, 35th District

Member of the State Senate

Democrat
Steven Bradford

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Senate Representative Steven Bradford to keep SD-35 on the right track.

About the Position

State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating legislation that addresses issues within their district, as well as voting and debating on preexisting laws. The California State Senate has 40 congressional districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate's 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 29 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 11 seats.

About the District

California's 35th Senate District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Inglewood, Torrance, and Long Beach. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show SD-35 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Bradford led American Independent Party challenger Anthony Perry by a margin of 51.4 percent. Bradford’s campaign has raised $1,162,607.30. Bradford has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted money from corporate and fossil fuel groups. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Perry’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

State Senator Steven Bradford is from Gardena, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2017. According to campaign materials, he is running for State Senate to advance policies to help local working-class families.

As a state senator, Bradford has authored numerous pieces of legislation that promote a clean environment, climate justice, and civil rights, and enhance public safety. Bradford currently serves as chair of the Labor and Industrial Relations Committee and sits on the Public Safety, Governmental Organization, Appropriations Committees, as well as the Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee. Prior to his election to the State Senate, he served in the Gardena City Council and the State Assembly.

Sen. Bradford’s priorities for SD-35 this year include health care, jobs, public safety, and economic revitalization. Sen. Bradford has sponsored and co-sponsored three bills about social justice and equitable housing this year. He scores 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Bradford has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Sen. Bradford has not supported key legislation that provides environmental protections in the district.

Prior to his election to the State Senate, Sen. Bradford was a public affairs manager for Southern California Edison, district director for the late Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald, and program director for the LA Conservation Corps.

Rep. Bradford is endorsed by many progressive and moderate groups in the district. According to our analysis, Rep. Bradford is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Steven Bradford

Re-elect State Senate Representative Steven Bradford to keep SD-35 on the right track.

About the Position

Re-elect State Senate Representative Steven Bradford to keep SD-35 on the right track.

About the Position

State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating legislation that addresses issues within their district, as well as voting and debating on preexisting laws. The California State Senate has 40 congressional districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate's 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 29 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 11 seats.

About the District

California's 35th Senate District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Inglewood, Torrance, and Long Beach. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show SD-35 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Bradford led American Independent Party challenger Anthony Perry by a margin of 51.4 percent. Bradford’s campaign has raised $1,162,607.30. Bradford has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted money from corporate and fossil fuel groups. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Perry’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

State Senator Steven Bradford is from Gardena, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2017. According to campaign materials, he is running for State Senate to advance policies to help local working-class families.

As a state senator, Bradford has authored numerous pieces of legislation that promote a clean environment, climate justice, and civil rights, and enhance public safety. Bradford currently serves as chair of the Labor and Industrial Relations Committee and sits on the Public Safety, Governmental Organization, Appropriations Committees, as well as the Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee. Prior to his election to the State Senate, he served in the Gardena City Council and the State Assembly.

Sen. Bradford’s priorities for SD-35 this year include health care, jobs, public safety, and economic revitalization. Sen. Bradford has sponsored and co-sponsored three bills about social justice and equitable housing this year. He scores 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Bradford has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Sen. Bradford has not supported key legislation that provides environmental protections in the district.

Prior to his election to the State Senate, Sen. Bradford was a public affairs manager for Southern California Edison, district director for the late Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald, and program director for the LA Conservation Corps.

Rep. Bradford is endorsed by many progressive and moderate groups in the district. According to our analysis, Rep. Bradford is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Steven Bradford

Re-elect State Senate Representative Steven Bradford to keep SD-35 on the right track.

About the Position

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California Nurses Association, California Teachers Association, National Union of Healthcare Workers, SEIU CA, United Farm Workers

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/steven-bradford/

Re-elect State Senate Representative Steven Bradford to keep SD-35 on the right track.

About the Position

State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating legislation that addresses issues within their district, as well as voting and debating on preexisting laws. The California State Senate has 40 congressional districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate's 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 29 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 11 seats.

About the District

California's 35th Senate District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Inglewood, Torrance, and Long Beach. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show SD-35 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Bradford led American Independent Party challenger Anthony Perry by a margin of 51.4 percent. Bradford’s campaign has raised $1,162,607.30. Bradford has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted money from corporate and fossil fuel groups. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Perry’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

State Senator Steven Bradford is from Gardena, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2017. According to campaign materials, he is running for State Senate to advance policies to help local working-class families.

As a state senator, Bradford has authored numerous pieces of legislation that promote a clean environment, climate justice, and civil rights, and enhance public safety. Bradford currently serves as chair of the Labor and Industrial Relations Committee and sits on the Public Safety, Governmental Organization, Appropriations Committees, as well as the Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee. Prior to his election to the State Senate, he served in the Gardena City Council and the State Assembly.

Sen. Bradford’s priorities for SD-35 this year include health care, jobs, public safety, and economic revitalization. Sen. Bradford has sponsored and co-sponsored three bills about social justice and equitable housing this year. He scores 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Bradford has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Sen. Bradford has not supported key legislation that provides environmental protections in the district.

Prior to his election to the State Senate, Sen. Bradford was a public affairs manager for Southern California Edison, district director for the late Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald, and program director for the LA Conservation Corps.

Rep. Bradford is endorsed by many progressive and moderate groups in the district. According to our analysis, Rep. Bradford is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Steven Bradford

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Senate Representative Steven Bradford to keep SD-35 on the right track.

About the Position

State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating legislation that addresses issues within their district, as well as voting and debating on preexisting laws. The California State Senate has 40 congressional districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate's 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 29 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 11 seats.

About the District

California's 35th Senate District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Inglewood, Torrance, and Long Beach. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show SD-35 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Bradford led American Independent Party challenger Anthony Perry by a margin of 51.4 percent. Bradford’s campaign has raised $1,162,607.30. Bradford has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted money from corporate and fossil fuel groups. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Perry’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

State Senator Steven Bradford is from Gardena, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2017. According to campaign materials, he is running for State Senate to advance policies to help local working-class families.

As a state senator, Bradford has authored numerous pieces of legislation that promote a clean environment, climate justice, and civil rights, and enhance public safety. Bradford currently serves as chair of the Labor and Industrial Relations Committee and sits on the Public Safety, Governmental Organization, Appropriations Committees, as well as the Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee. Prior to his election to the State Senate, he served in the Gardena City Council and the State Assembly.

Sen. Bradford’s priorities for SD-35 this year include health care, jobs, public safety, and economic revitalization. Sen. Bradford has sponsored and co-sponsored three bills about social justice and equitable housing this year. He scores 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Bradford has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Sen. Bradford has not supported key legislation that provides environmental protections in the district.

Prior to his election to the State Senate, Sen. Bradford was a public affairs manager for Southern California Edison, district director for the late Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald, and program director for the LA Conservation Corps.

Rep. Bradford is endorsed by many progressive and moderate groups in the district. According to our analysis, Rep. Bradford is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California Nurses Association, California Teachers Association, National Union of Healthcare Workers, SEIU CA, United Farm Workers

State Assembly

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State Assembly races on your ballot.

State Assembly, 40th District

Member of the State Assembly

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 40th Assembly District includes parts of San Bernardino County, which includes the cities of San Bernardino and Rancho Cucamonga. Republicans typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-40 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democratic incumbent Representative James Ramos led Republican challenger Jennifer Tullius by a margin of 18.8 percent. Ramos’s campaign has raised $1,048,867.97. Ramos has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and his campaign is funded by all three. Tullius’s campaign trails Ramos’s in donations by a large margin, having raised only $3,550.00. Tullius has also not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, but her campaign is funded by only herself and one other individual.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember James Ramos is the incumbent, having served in the Assembly in 2018. He scores a lifetime score of 18 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Ramos has supported few progressive bills that made it to a vote. While Ramos has progressive stances on education and the economy, he has voted against key progressive bills on criminal-justice reform, health care, the environment, labor, and housing.

Because the Democratic candidate in this race is considered to be a safe win in this district, we feel comfortable providing no recommendation in this race. Keep reading for progressive recommendations in other key races and on ballot measures where your vote can make a critical difference.

No Progressive Candidate - AD40

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

About the District

About the Race

About the Candidate

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

About the District

About the Race

About the Candidate

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 42nd District

Member of the State Assembly

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 42nd Assembly District includes parts of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Republicans typically hold this district, and incumbent Chad Mayes has held this seat as a Republican since 2014. That said, Mayes left the Republican Party this year and is running as an independent. The most recent election results show 49.7 percent of AD-42 voted for Trump for president in 2016, and 52.2 percent of the district voted for Cox for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, now-Independent incumbent Representative Mayes led Republican challenger Andrew Kotyuk by a margin of 1.5 percent. Neither candidate has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money. Mayes’s campaign has raised $740,040 and is funded by all three groups, including Anheuser-Busch Co., the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, and Chevron Corp. Opponent Kotyuk’s campaign has raised $298,738.27 and is backed by individuals, local businesses, and some labor groups.

About the Incumbent

Rep. Mayes, the incumbent, was first elected to the Assembly in 2014. According to campaign materials, Rep. Mayes is running for re-election to represent the people, not a party. Chad Mayes was first elected to the Assembly in November 2014 to represent the 42nd District in the California State Assembly. This Inland Empire district encompasses parts of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties.

Rep. Mayes’s priorities for AD-42 this year include individual freedom, shared responsibility, and educational excellence. He scores a lifetime score of 4 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Mayes has supported a very small number of progressive bills that made it to a vote. He has voted consistently against workers’ rights and environmental protection.

Neither candidate demonstrates a commitment to equitable or representative leadership. Keep reading for progressive recommendations in other key races and on ballot measures where your vote can make a critical difference.

No Progressive Candidate - AD42

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

About the Race

About the Incumbent

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

About the Race

About the Incumbent

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 43rd District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Laura Friedman

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Laura Friedman to keep AD-43 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 43rd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Glendale, Burbank, La Cañada Flintridge, and La Crescenta-Montrose. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-43 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Laura Friedman led Republican challenger Mike Graves by a margin of 54.9 percent. Friedman’s campaign has raised $408,291.69 and is not funded by fossil fuel money, although Sempra Energy, which is not on the No Fossil Fuel pledge list, thus technically not breaking her pledge, has contributed to her campaign. Friedman’s campaign has also accepted police and corporation money. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Graves’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Laura Friedman is a longtime Glendale resident. She is the incumbent, having served as assemblymember for the 43rd District in the State Assembly since 2016. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue her work to raise the minimum wage, protect the environment, and advocate for universal health care and affordable housing.

As an assemblymember, Friedman has authored and led the passage of several bills related to small business and innovation, and has worked to save developmental disability services, protect public health, and preserve civil rights. Assemblymember Friedman currently serves as chair of the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, which covers air quality, climate change, renewable energy, coastal protection, and other environmental issues. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, she served seven years on the Glendale City Council, including a term as the mayor of Glendale.

Assemblymember Friedman’s priorities for AD-43 this year include protecting vulnerable Californians, advocating for better and more efficient mass transit options, and combating the climate crisis. She has a lifetime score of 98 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Friedman has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation that would increase oversight of telecommunications companies.

During her first term as assemblymember, Friedman authored a package of bills to institute landmark water-efficiency standards, strengthen environmental sustainability, and expand access to higher education, health care, and transportation alternatives. She is a longtime supporter of environmental causes.

Assemblymember Friedman is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Friedman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Laura Friedman

Re-elect State Assemblymember Laura Friedman to keep AD-43 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 43rd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Glendale, Burbank, La Cañada Flintridge, and La Crescenta-Montrose. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-43 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Laura Friedman led Republican challenger Mike Graves by a margin of 54.9 percent. Friedman’s campaign has raised $408,291.69 and is not funded by fossil fuel money, although Sempra Energy, which is not on the No Fossil Fuel pledge list, thus technically not breaking her pledge, has contributed to her campaign. Friedman’s campaign has also accepted police and corporation money. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Graves’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Laura Friedman is a longtime Glendale resident. She is the incumbent, having served as assemblymember for the 43rd District in the State Assembly since 2016. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue her work to raise the minimum wage, protect the environment, and advocate for universal health care and affordable housing.

As an assemblymember, Friedman has authored and led the passage of several bills related to small business and innovation, and has worked to save developmental disability services, protect public health, and preserve civil rights. Assemblymember Friedman currently serves as chair of the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, which covers air quality, climate change, renewable energy, coastal protection, and other environmental issues. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, she served seven years on the Glendale City Council, including a term as the mayor of Glendale.

Assemblymember Friedman’s priorities for AD-43 this year include protecting vulnerable Californians, advocating for better and more efficient mass transit options, and combating the climate crisis. She has a lifetime score of 98 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Friedman has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation that would increase oversight of telecommunications companies.

During her first term as assemblymember, Friedman authored a package of bills to institute landmark water-efficiency standards, strengthen environmental sustainability, and expand access to higher education, health care, and transportation alternatives. She is a longtime supporter of environmental causes.

Assemblymember Friedman is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Friedman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Laura Friedman to keep AD-43 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 43rd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Glendale, Burbank, La Cañada Flintridge, and La Crescenta-Montrose. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-43 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Laura Friedman led Republican challenger Mike Graves by a margin of 54.9 percent. Friedman’s campaign has raised $408,291.69 and is not funded by fossil fuel money, although Sempra Energy, which is not on the No Fossil Fuel pledge list, thus technically not breaking her pledge, has contributed to her campaign. Friedman’s campaign has also accepted police and corporation money. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Graves’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Laura Friedman is a longtime Glendale resident. She is the incumbent, having served as assemblymember for the 43rd District in the State Assembly since 2016. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue her work to raise the minimum wage, protect the environment, and advocate for universal health care and affordable housing.

As an assemblymember, Friedman has authored and led the passage of several bills related to small business and innovation, and has worked to save developmental disability services, protect public health, and preserve civil rights. Assemblymember Friedman currently serves as chair of the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, which covers air quality, climate change, renewable energy, coastal protection, and other environmental issues. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, she served seven years on the Glendale City Council, including a term as the mayor of Glendale.

Assemblymember Friedman’s priorities for AD-43 this year include protecting vulnerable Californians, advocating for better and more efficient mass transit options, and combating the climate crisis. She has a lifetime score of 98 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Friedman has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation that would increase oversight of telecommunications companies.

During her first term as assemblymember, Friedman authored a package of bills to institute landmark water-efficiency standards, strengthen environmental sustainability, and expand access to higher education, health care, and transportation alternatives. She is a longtime supporter of environmental causes.

Assemblymember Friedman is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Friedman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Laura Friedman

Re-elect State Assemblymember Laura Friedman to keep AD-43 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 43rd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Glendale, Burbank, La Cañada Flintridge, and La Crescenta-Montrose. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-43 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Laura Friedman led Republican challenger Mike Graves by a margin of 54.9 percent. Friedman’s campaign has raised $408,291.69 and is not funded by fossil fuel money, although Sempra Energy, which is not on the No Fossil Fuel pledge list, thus technically not breaking her pledge, has contributed to her campaign. Friedman’s campaign has also accepted police and corporation money. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Graves’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Laura Friedman is a longtime Glendale resident. She is the incumbent, having served as assemblymember for the 43rd District in the State Assembly since 2016. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue her work to raise the minimum wage, protect the environment, and advocate for universal health care and affordable housing.

As an assemblymember, Friedman has authored and led the passage of several bills related to small business and innovation, and has worked to save developmental disability services, protect public health, and preserve civil rights. Assemblymember Friedman currently serves as chair of the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, which covers air quality, climate change, renewable energy, coastal protection, and other environmental issues. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, she served seven years on the Glendale City Council, including a term as the mayor of Glendale.

Assemblymember Friedman’s priorities for AD-43 this year include protecting vulnerable Californians, advocating for better and more efficient mass transit options, and combating the climate crisis. She has a lifetime score of 98 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Friedman has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation that would increase oversight of telecommunications companies.

During her first term as assemblymember, Friedman authored a package of bills to institute landmark water-efficiency standards, strengthen environmental sustainability, and expand access to higher education, health care, and transportation alternatives. She is a longtime supporter of environmental causes.

Assemblymember Friedman is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Friedman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME 57, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, California Women’s List, Close the Gap CA, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Nurses Association, California Teachers Association, Equality California, NARAL Pro-Choice California, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Sierra Club California, United Farm Workers

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/laura-friedman/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Laura Friedman to keep AD-43 on the right track.

About the Position

About the District

California's 43rd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Glendale, Burbank, La Cañada Flintridge, and La Crescenta-Montrose. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-43 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Laura Friedman led Republican challenger Mike Graves by a margin of 54.9 percent. Friedman’s campaign has raised $408,291.69 and is not funded by fossil fuel money, although Sempra Energy, which is not on the No Fossil Fuel pledge list, thus technically not breaking her pledge, has contributed to her campaign. Friedman’s campaign has also accepted police and corporation money. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Graves’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Laura Friedman is a longtime Glendale resident. She is the incumbent, having served as assemblymember for the 43rd District in the State Assembly since 2016. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue her work to raise the minimum wage, protect the environment, and advocate for universal health care and affordable housing.

As an assemblymember, Friedman has authored and led the passage of several bills related to small business and innovation, and has worked to save developmental disability services, protect public health, and preserve civil rights. Assemblymember Friedman currently serves as chair of the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, which covers air quality, climate change, renewable energy, coastal protection, and other environmental issues. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, she served seven years on the Glendale City Council, including a term as the mayor of Glendale.

Assemblymember Friedman’s priorities for AD-43 this year include protecting vulnerable Californians, advocating for better and more efficient mass transit options, and combating the climate crisis. She has a lifetime score of 98 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Friedman has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation that would increase oversight of telecommunications companies.

During her first term as assemblymember, Friedman authored a package of bills to institute landmark water-efficiency standards, strengthen environmental sustainability, and expand access to higher education, health care, and transportation alternatives. She is a longtime supporter of environmental causes.

Assemblymember Friedman is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Friedman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Laura Friedman

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Laura Friedman to keep AD-43 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 43rd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and includes the cities of Glendale, Burbank, La Cañada Flintridge, and La Crescenta-Montrose. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-43 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Laura Friedman led Republican challenger Mike Graves by a margin of 54.9 percent. Friedman’s campaign has raised $408,291.69 and is not funded by fossil fuel money, although Sempra Energy, which is not on the No Fossil Fuel pledge list, thus technically not breaking her pledge, has contributed to her campaign. Friedman’s campaign has also accepted police and corporation money. No FEC filings have been made about opponent Graves’s campaign’s funding.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Laura Friedman is a longtime Glendale resident. She is the incumbent, having served as assemblymember for the 43rd District in the State Assembly since 2016. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue her work to raise the minimum wage, protect the environment, and advocate for universal health care and affordable housing.

As an assemblymember, Friedman has authored and led the passage of several bills related to small business and innovation, and has worked to save developmental disability services, protect public health, and preserve civil rights. Assemblymember Friedman currently serves as chair of the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, which covers air quality, climate change, renewable energy, coastal protection, and other environmental issues. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, she served seven years on the Glendale City Council, including a term as the mayor of Glendale.

Assemblymember Friedman’s priorities for AD-43 this year include protecting vulnerable Californians, advocating for better and more efficient mass transit options, and combating the climate crisis. She has a lifetime score of 98 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Friedman has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation that would increase oversight of telecommunications companies.

During her first term as assemblymember, Friedman authored a package of bills to institute landmark water-efficiency standards, strengthen environmental sustainability, and expand access to higher education, health care, and transportation alternatives. She is a longtime supporter of environmental causes.

Assemblymember Friedman is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Friedman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 44th District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Jacqui Irwin

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to keep AD-44 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 44th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district, although a Republican held this seat from 2010 to 2014. The most recent election results show AD-44 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Irwin led Republican challenger Rob McCoy by a margin of 54.9 percent. Irwin’s campaign has raised $491,633.36. The campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and is funded by police and corporate money, including from Monsanto, Facebook, and Johnson & Johnson. McCoy’s campaign has not made any FEC filings.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin currently resides in Thousand Oaks, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014. According to campaign materials, she is running to keep her seat to continue to create jobs, ensure that her community is safe, and advocate for fiscally responsible governance.

Assemblymember Irwin’s priorities for AD-44 this year include job creation. She has sponsored and co-sponsored two bills about gun violence prevention. Irwin scores a Lifetime Courage Score of 46 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Irwin has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has voted against key progressive bills on criminal-justice reform, labor rights, and increasing access to affordable housing.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Irwin served as mayor of Thousand Oaks. In her first term as assemblymember, she advanced legislation to increase funding for education and mental-health services, expand consumer protections, and address sexual harassment in the workplace. Irwin currently serves as chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Cybersecurity Select Committee, and sits on three additional committees.

Rep. Irwin is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also endorsed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter McCoy’s potential policies--especially as a pastor who made the news recently by defying a judge’s orders to stop in-person church services during the pandemic--greatly outweighs Irwin’s moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Irwin is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Jacqui Irwin

Re-elect State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to keep AD-44 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 44th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district, although a Republican held this seat from 2010 to 2014. The most recent election results show AD-44 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Irwin led Republican challenger Rob McCoy by a margin of 54.9 percent. Irwin’s campaign has raised $491,633.36. The campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and is funded by police and corporate money, including from Monsanto, Facebook, and Johnson & Johnson. McCoy’s campaign has not made any FEC filings.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin currently resides in Thousand Oaks, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014. According to campaign materials, she is running to keep her seat to continue to create jobs, ensure that her community is safe, and advocate for fiscally responsible governance.

Assemblymember Irwin’s priorities for AD-44 this year include job creation. She has sponsored and co-sponsored two bills about gun violence prevention. Irwin scores a Lifetime Courage Score of 46 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Irwin has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has voted against key progressive bills on criminal-justice reform, labor rights, and increasing access to affordable housing.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Irwin served as mayor of Thousand Oaks. In her first term as assemblymember, she advanced legislation to increase funding for education and mental-health services, expand consumer protections, and address sexual harassment in the workplace. Irwin currently serves as chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Cybersecurity Select Committee, and sits on three additional committees.

Rep. Irwin is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also endorsed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter McCoy’s potential policies--especially as a pastor who made the news recently by defying a judge’s orders to stop in-person church services during the pandemic--greatly outweighs Irwin’s moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Irwin is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to keep AD-44 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 44th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district, although a Republican held this seat from 2010 to 2014. The most recent election results show AD-44 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Irwin led Republican challenger Rob McCoy by a margin of 54.9 percent. Irwin’s campaign has raised $491,633.36. The campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and is funded by police and corporate money, including from Monsanto, Facebook, and Johnson & Johnson. McCoy’s campaign has not made any FEC filings.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin currently resides in Thousand Oaks, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014. According to campaign materials, she is running to keep her seat to continue to create jobs, ensure that her community is safe, and advocate for fiscally responsible governance.

Assemblymember Irwin’s priorities for AD-44 this year include job creation. She has sponsored and co-sponsored two bills about gun violence prevention. Irwin scores a Lifetime Courage Score of 46 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Irwin has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has voted against key progressive bills on criminal-justice reform, labor rights, and increasing access to affordable housing.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Irwin served as mayor of Thousand Oaks. In her first term as assemblymember, she advanced legislation to increase funding for education and mental-health services, expand consumer protections, and address sexual harassment in the workplace. Irwin currently serves as chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Cybersecurity Select Committee, and sits on three additional committees.

Rep. Irwin is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also endorsed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter McCoy’s potential policies--especially as a pastor who made the news recently by defying a judge’s orders to stop in-person church services during the pandemic--greatly outweighs Irwin’s moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Irwin is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Jacqui Irwin

Re-elect State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to keep AD-44 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 44th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district, although a Republican held this seat from 2010 to 2014. The most recent election results show AD-44 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Irwin led Republican challenger Rob McCoy by a margin of 54.9 percent. Irwin’s campaign has raised $491,633.36. The campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and is funded by police and corporate money, including from Monsanto, Facebook, and Johnson & Johnson. McCoy’s campaign has not made any FEC filings.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin currently resides in Thousand Oaks, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014. According to campaign materials, she is running to keep her seat to continue to create jobs, ensure that her community is safe, and advocate for fiscally responsible governance.

Assemblymember Irwin’s priorities for AD-44 this year include job creation. She has sponsored and co-sponsored two bills about gun violence prevention. Irwin scores a Lifetime Courage Score of 46 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Irwin has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has voted against key progressive bills on criminal-justice reform, labor rights, and increasing access to affordable housing.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Irwin served as mayor of Thousand Oaks. In her first term as assemblymember, she advanced legislation to increase funding for education and mental-health services, expand consumer protections, and address sexual harassment in the workplace. Irwin currently serves as chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Cybersecurity Select Committee, and sits on three additional committees.

Rep. Irwin is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also endorsed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter McCoy’s potential policies--especially as a pastor who made the news recently by defying a judge’s orders to stop in-person church services during the pandemic--greatly outweighs Irwin’s moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Irwin is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, California Women’s List, Close the Gap CA, Emily's List, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Teachers Association, Equality California, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Sierra Club California

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/jacqui-irwin/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to keep AD-44 on the right track.

About the Position

About the District

California's 44th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district, although a Republican held this seat from 2010 to 2014. The most recent election results show AD-44 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Irwin led Republican challenger Rob McCoy by a margin of 54.9 percent. Irwin’s campaign has raised $491,633.36. The campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and is funded by police and corporate money, including from Monsanto, Facebook, and Johnson & Johnson. McCoy’s campaign has not made any FEC filings.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin currently resides in Thousand Oaks, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014. According to campaign materials, she is running to keep her seat to continue to create jobs, ensure that her community is safe, and advocate for fiscally responsible governance.

Assemblymember Irwin’s priorities for AD-44 this year include job creation. She has sponsored and co-sponsored two bills about gun violence prevention. Irwin scores a Lifetime Courage Score of 46 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Irwin has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has voted against key progressive bills on criminal-justice reform, labor rights, and increasing access to affordable housing.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Irwin served as mayor of Thousand Oaks. In her first term as assemblymember, she advanced legislation to increase funding for education and mental-health services, expand consumer protections, and address sexual harassment in the workplace. Irwin currently serves as chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Cybersecurity Select Committee, and sits on three additional committees.

Rep. Irwin is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also endorsed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter McCoy’s potential policies--especially as a pastor who made the news recently by defying a judge’s orders to stop in-person church services during the pandemic--greatly outweighs Irwin’s moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Irwin is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Jacqui Irwin

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to keep AD-44 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 44th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district, although a Republican held this seat from 2010 to 2014. The most recent election results show AD-44 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Irwin led Republican challenger Rob McCoy by a margin of 54.9 percent. Irwin’s campaign has raised $491,633.36. The campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and is funded by police and corporate money, including from Monsanto, Facebook, and Johnson & Johnson. McCoy’s campaign has not made any FEC filings.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin currently resides in Thousand Oaks, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014. According to campaign materials, she is running to keep her seat to continue to create jobs, ensure that her community is safe, and advocate for fiscally responsible governance.

Assemblymember Irwin’s priorities for AD-44 this year include job creation. She has sponsored and co-sponsored two bills about gun violence prevention. Irwin scores a Lifetime Courage Score of 46 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Irwin has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has voted against key progressive bills on criminal-justice reform, labor rights, and increasing access to affordable housing.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Irwin served as mayor of Thousand Oaks. In her first term as assemblymember, she advanced legislation to increase funding for education and mental-health services, expand consumer protections, and address sexual harassment in the workplace. Irwin currently serves as chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Cybersecurity Select Committee, and sits on three additional committees.

Rep. Irwin is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also endorsed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter McCoy’s potential policies--especially as a pastor who made the news recently by defying a judge’s orders to stop in-person church services during the pandemic--greatly outweighs Irwin’s moderate voting record. According to our analysis, Rep. Irwin is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 46th District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Adrin Nazarian

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian to keep AD-46 on the right track.

About the Position

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California’s 46th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. Democratic Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian has held this office since he was elected in 2012. The most recent election results show 76.2 percent of AD-46 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and 78 percent of AD-46 voted for Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian led Democratic challenger Lanira Murphy by a margin of 39.4 percent. Assemblymember Nazarian’s campaign has raised over $527,000 and is funded by fossil fuels, corporate PACs, and police money. Murphy’s campaign has received $1,376 in contributions and has committed to keeping corporate PAC money and police money out of her campaign. She has not signed the fossil fuel money pledge.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Nazarian was born in Iran and now lives in West Toluca Lake, CA. He previously served as Chief of Staff to former Assistant Majority Leader Paul Krekorian. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Nazarian is running for re-election to increase K–12 and higher learning aid, work with small businesses to keep film production jobs in the district, and improve transportation.

Assemblymember Nazarian’s priorities for AD-46 this year include lowering insulin copays for diabetic Californians during the COVID-19 pandemic and divesting from Turkish bonds. He currently sits on five standing committees: Aging and Long-Term Care (as chair), Arts, Budget, Health, and Transportation. Assemblymember Nazarian has sponsored 55 bills about taxation, wellness programs, health care, and education this year, of which 10 have been successfully chaptered into law.

His lifetime score is 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Nazarian has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Assemblymember Nazarian has not supported SB 1 (strengthening California environmental standards to pre-Trump federal levels), SB 136 (repealing sentencing enhancements for those with prior offenses), AB 1600 (expediting the process to obtain police misconduct records in a criminal trial), AB 290 (preventing dialysis companies from steering patients from Medi-Cal to boost corporate profits), SB 268 (offering voters more information on potentially progressive taxation measures), and AB 1279 (encouraging affordable housing production in “high-resource” areas that show patterns of exclusion). Additionally, Assemblymember Nazarian received a 100 percent score from the California Environmental Justice Alliance in 2019.

Assemblymember Nazarian is endorsed by a majority of progressive groups such as California Democratic Party, Equality California, and California Teachers Association. He is also endorsed by California Statewide Law Enforcement Association and the Peace Officers Research Association. We were unable to find any endorsements for challenger Murphy. Despite his problematic endorsements by law enforcement and occasional moderate voting history on key progressive legislation, Assemblymember Nazarian’s base of support in the district makes him the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Adrin Nazarian

Re-elect State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian to keep AD-46 on the right track.

About the Position

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California’s 46th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. Democratic Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian has held this office since he was elected in 2012. The most recent election results show 76.2 percent of AD-46 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and 78 percent of AD-46 voted for Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian led Democratic challenger Lanira Murphy by a margin of 39.4 percent. Assemblymember Nazarian’s campaign has raised over $527,000 and is funded by fossil fuels, corporate PACs, and police money. Murphy’s campaign has received $1,376 in contributions and has committed to keeping corporate PAC money and police money out of her campaign. She has not signed the fossil fuel money pledge.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Nazarian was born in Iran and now lives in West Toluca Lake, CA. He previously served as Chief of Staff to former Assistant Majority Leader Paul Krekorian. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Nazarian is running for re-election to increase K–12 and higher learning aid, work with small businesses to keep film production jobs in the district, and improve transportation.

Assemblymember Nazarian’s priorities for AD-46 this year include lowering insulin copays for diabetic Californians during the COVID-19 pandemic and divesting from Turkish bonds. He currently sits on five standing committees: Aging and Long-Term Care (as chair), Arts, Budget, Health, and Transportation. Assemblymember Nazarian has sponsored 55 bills about taxation, wellness programs, health care, and education this year, of which 10 have been successfully chaptered into law.

His lifetime score is 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Nazarian has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Assemblymember Nazarian has not supported SB 1 (strengthening California environmental standards to pre-Trump federal levels), SB 136 (repealing sentencing enhancements for those with prior offenses), AB 1600 (expediting the process to obtain police misconduct records in a criminal trial), AB 290 (preventing dialysis companies from steering patients from Medi-Cal to boost corporate profits), SB 268 (offering voters more information on potentially progressive taxation measures), and AB 1279 (encouraging affordable housing production in “high-resource” areas that show patterns of exclusion). Additionally, Assemblymember Nazarian received a 100 percent score from the California Environmental Justice Alliance in 2019.

Assemblymember Nazarian is endorsed by a majority of progressive groups such as California Democratic Party, Equality California, and California Teachers Association. He is also endorsed by California Statewide Law Enforcement Association and the Peace Officers Research Association. We were unable to find any endorsements for challenger Murphy. Despite his problematic endorsements by law enforcement and occasional moderate voting history on key progressive legislation, Assemblymember Nazarian’s base of support in the district makes him the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian to keep AD-46 on the right track.

About the Position

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California’s 46th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. Democratic Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian has held this office since he was elected in 2012. The most recent election results show 76.2 percent of AD-46 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and 78 percent of AD-46 voted for Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian led Democratic challenger Lanira Murphy by a margin of 39.4 percent. Assemblymember Nazarian’s campaign has raised over $527,000 and is funded by fossil fuels, corporate PACs, and police money. Murphy’s campaign has received $1,376 in contributions and has committed to keeping corporate PAC money and police money out of her campaign. She has not signed the fossil fuel money pledge.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Nazarian was born in Iran and now lives in West Toluca Lake, CA. He previously served as Chief of Staff to former Assistant Majority Leader Paul Krekorian. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Nazarian is running for re-election to increase K–12 and higher learning aid, work with small businesses to keep film production jobs in the district, and improve transportation.

Assemblymember Nazarian’s priorities for AD-46 this year include lowering insulin copays for diabetic Californians during the COVID-19 pandemic and divesting from Turkish bonds. He currently sits on five standing committees: Aging and Long-Term Care (as chair), Arts, Budget, Health, and Transportation. Assemblymember Nazarian has sponsored 55 bills about taxation, wellness programs, health care, and education this year, of which 10 have been successfully chaptered into law.

His lifetime score is 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Nazarian has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Assemblymember Nazarian has not supported SB 1 (strengthening California environmental standards to pre-Trump federal levels), SB 136 (repealing sentencing enhancements for those with prior offenses), AB 1600 (expediting the process to obtain police misconduct records in a criminal trial), AB 290 (preventing dialysis companies from steering patients from Medi-Cal to boost corporate profits), SB 268 (offering voters more information on potentially progressive taxation measures), and AB 1279 (encouraging affordable housing production in “high-resource” areas that show patterns of exclusion). Additionally, Assemblymember Nazarian received a 100 percent score from the California Environmental Justice Alliance in 2019.

Assemblymember Nazarian is endorsed by a majority of progressive groups such as California Democratic Party, Equality California, and California Teachers Association. He is also endorsed by California Statewide Law Enforcement Association and the Peace Officers Research Association. We were unable to find any endorsements for challenger Murphy. Despite his problematic endorsements by law enforcement and occasional moderate voting history on key progressive legislation, Assemblymember Nazarian’s base of support in the district makes him the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Adrin Nazarian

Re-elect State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian to keep AD-46 on the right track.

About the Position

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California’s 46th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. Democratic Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian has held this office since he was elected in 2012. The most recent election results show 76.2 percent of AD-46 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and 78 percent of AD-46 voted for Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian led Democratic challenger Lanira Murphy by a margin of 39.4 percent. Assemblymember Nazarian’s campaign has raised over $527,000 and is funded by fossil fuels, corporate PACs, and police money. Murphy’s campaign has received $1,376 in contributions and has committed to keeping corporate PAC money and police money out of her campaign. She has not signed the fossil fuel money pledge.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Nazarian was born in Iran and now lives in West Toluca Lake, CA. He previously served as Chief of Staff to former Assistant Majority Leader Paul Krekorian. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Nazarian is running for re-election to increase K–12 and higher learning aid, work with small businesses to keep film production jobs in the district, and improve transportation.

Assemblymember Nazarian’s priorities for AD-46 this year include lowering insulin copays for diabetic Californians during the COVID-19 pandemic and divesting from Turkish bonds. He currently sits on five standing committees: Aging and Long-Term Care (as chair), Arts, Budget, Health, and Transportation. Assemblymember Nazarian has sponsored 55 bills about taxation, wellness programs, health care, and education this year, of which 10 have been successfully chaptered into law.

His lifetime score is 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Nazarian has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Assemblymember Nazarian has not supported SB 1 (strengthening California environmental standards to pre-Trump federal levels), SB 136 (repealing sentencing enhancements for those with prior offenses), AB 1600 (expediting the process to obtain police misconduct records in a criminal trial), AB 290 (preventing dialysis companies from steering patients from Medi-Cal to boost corporate profits), SB 268 (offering voters more information on potentially progressive taxation measures), and AB 1279 (encouraging affordable housing production in “high-resource” areas that show patterns of exclusion). Additionally, Assemblymember Nazarian received a 100 percent score from the California Environmental Justice Alliance in 2019.

Assemblymember Nazarian is endorsed by a majority of progressive groups such as California Democratic Party, Equality California, and California Teachers Association. He is also endorsed by California Statewide Law Enforcement Association and the Peace Officers Research Association. We were unable to find any endorsements for challenger Murphy. Despite his problematic endorsements by law enforcement and occasional moderate voting history on key progressive legislation, Assemblymember Nazarian’s base of support in the district makes him the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Teachers Association, Equality California, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Sierra Club California

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/adrin-nazarian/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian to keep AD-46 on the right track.

About the Position

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California’s 46th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. Democratic Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian has held this office since he was elected in 2012. The most recent election results show 76.2 percent of AD-46 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and 78 percent of AD-46 voted for Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian led Democratic challenger Lanira Murphy by a margin of 39.4 percent. Assemblymember Nazarian’s campaign has raised over $527,000 and is funded by fossil fuels, corporate PACs, and police money. Murphy’s campaign has received $1,376 in contributions and has committed to keeping corporate PAC money and police money out of her campaign. She has not signed the fossil fuel money pledge.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Nazarian was born in Iran and now lives in West Toluca Lake, CA. He previously served as Chief of Staff to former Assistant Majority Leader Paul Krekorian. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Nazarian is running for re-election to increase K–12 and higher learning aid, work with small businesses to keep film production jobs in the district, and improve transportation.

Assemblymember Nazarian’s priorities for AD-46 this year include lowering insulin copays for diabetic Californians during the COVID-19 pandemic and divesting from Turkish bonds. He currently sits on five standing committees: Aging and Long-Term Care (as chair), Arts, Budget, Health, and Transportation. Assemblymember Nazarian has sponsored 55 bills about taxation, wellness programs, health care, and education this year, of which 10 have been successfully chaptered into law.

His lifetime score is 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Nazarian has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Assemblymember Nazarian has not supported SB 1 (strengthening California environmental standards to pre-Trump federal levels), SB 136 (repealing sentencing enhancements for those with prior offenses), AB 1600 (expediting the process to obtain police misconduct records in a criminal trial), AB 290 (preventing dialysis companies from steering patients from Medi-Cal to boost corporate profits), SB 268 (offering voters more information on potentially progressive taxation measures), and AB 1279 (encouraging affordable housing production in “high-resource” areas that show patterns of exclusion). Additionally, Assemblymember Nazarian received a 100 percent score from the California Environmental Justice Alliance in 2019.

Assemblymember Nazarian is endorsed by a majority of progressive groups such as California Democratic Party, Equality California, and California Teachers Association. He is also endorsed by California Statewide Law Enforcement Association and the Peace Officers Research Association. We were unable to find any endorsements for challenger Murphy. Despite his problematic endorsements by law enforcement and occasional moderate voting history on key progressive legislation, Assemblymember Nazarian’s base of support in the district makes him the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Adrin Nazarian

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian to keep AD-46 on the right track.

About the Position

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California’s 46th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. Democratic Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian has held this office since he was elected in 2012. The most recent election results show 76.2 percent of AD-46 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and 78 percent of AD-46 voted for Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian led Democratic challenger Lanira Murphy by a margin of 39.4 percent. Assemblymember Nazarian’s campaign has raised over $527,000 and is funded by fossil fuels, corporate PACs, and police money. Murphy’s campaign has received $1,376 in contributions and has committed to keeping corporate PAC money and police money out of her campaign. She has not signed the fossil fuel money pledge.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Nazarian was born in Iran and now lives in West Toluca Lake, CA. He previously served as Chief of Staff to former Assistant Majority Leader Paul Krekorian. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Nazarian is running for re-election to increase K–12 and higher learning aid, work with small businesses to keep film production jobs in the district, and improve transportation.

Assemblymember Nazarian’s priorities for AD-46 this year include lowering insulin copays for diabetic Californians during the COVID-19 pandemic and divesting from Turkish bonds. He currently sits on five standing committees: Aging and Long-Term Care (as chair), Arts, Budget, Health, and Transportation. Assemblymember Nazarian has sponsored 55 bills about taxation, wellness programs, health care, and education this year, of which 10 have been successfully chaptered into law.

His lifetime score is 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assemblymember Nazarian has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Assemblymember Nazarian has not supported SB 1 (strengthening California environmental standards to pre-Trump federal levels), SB 136 (repealing sentencing enhancements for those with prior offenses), AB 1600 (expediting the process to obtain police misconduct records in a criminal trial), AB 290 (preventing dialysis companies from steering patients from Medi-Cal to boost corporate profits), SB 268 (offering voters more information on potentially progressive taxation measures), and AB 1279 (encouraging affordable housing production in “high-resource” areas that show patterns of exclusion). Additionally, Assemblymember Nazarian received a 100 percent score from the California Environmental Justice Alliance in 2019.

Assemblymember Nazarian is endorsed by a majority of progressive groups such as California Democratic Party, Equality California, and California Teachers Association. He is also endorsed by California Statewide Law Enforcement Association and the Peace Officers Research Association. We were unable to find any endorsements for challenger Murphy. Despite his problematic endorsements by law enforcement and occasional moderate voting history on key progressive legislation, Assemblymember Nazarian’s base of support in the district makes him the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Teachers Association, Equality California, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Sierra Club California

State Assembly, 51st District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Wendy Carrillo

Website
Re-elect State Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo to keep AD-51 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 51st Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County, and includes East Los Angeles and the neighborhoods of Lincoln Heights, Eagle Rock, and Chinatown. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show that 85 percent of AD-51 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 85.9 percent voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

Since the primary, Wendy Carrillo stands unchallenged in this election after she won 86.6 percent of the vote in the primaries. Carrillo’s campaign has raised $438,703.55. She has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money and has accepted funds from all three groups.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is from El Salvador and moved to the Boyle Heights neighborhood in 1985. She has lived in Los Angeles ever since, and first won her seat in 2017. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Carrillo is running for re-election to fight for opportunity, equality, and fairness.

Assemblymember Carrillo’s priorities for AD-51 this year include improving access to quality education and health care, creating economic opportunity, and providing affordable housing. In the Assembly, Carrillo serves on nineteen committees, including Select Committees on Ending the School to Prison Pipeline and Uplifting Girls and Women of Color in California. She was recently a co-author of AB 1482, which protects renters from unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases, and was signed into law in 2019. This year, Carrillo has co-sponsored three bills expanding access to affordable housing and providing medical leave protection for workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. She scores a lifetime score of 90 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Carrillo has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation providing oversight of telecommunications companies.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Carrillo was an award-winning journalist, writer, and producer. For ten years, she hosted a community-based radio program on Los Angeles Power 106 fm, discussing issues around access to higher education, environmental justice, and political transparency. More recently, she co-founded Reported.ly, an award-winning social media start-up covering human rights, global conflict, and social movements. She is a longtime supporter of labor rights, health care for all, and better conditions for caregivers.

Rep. Carrillo is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Wendy Carrillo

Re-elect State Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo to keep AD-51 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 51st Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County, and includes East Los Angeles and the neighborhoods of Lincoln Heights, Eagle Rock, and Chinatown. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show that 85 percent of AD-51 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 85.9 percent voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

Since the primary, Wendy Carrillo stands unchallenged in this election after she won 86.6 percent of the vote in the primaries. Carrillo’s campaign has raised $438,703.55. She has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money and has accepted funds from all three groups.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is from El Salvador and moved to the Boyle Heights neighborhood in 1985. She has lived in Los Angeles ever since, and first won her seat in 2017. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Carrillo is running for re-election to fight for opportunity, equality, and fairness.

Assemblymember Carrillo’s priorities for AD-51 this year include improving access to quality education and health care, creating economic opportunity, and providing affordable housing. In the Assembly, Carrillo serves on nineteen committees, including Select Committees on Ending the School to Prison Pipeline and Uplifting Girls and Women of Color in California. She was recently a co-author of AB 1482, which protects renters from unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases, and was signed into law in 2019. This year, Carrillo has co-sponsored three bills expanding access to affordable housing and providing medical leave protection for workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. She scores a lifetime score of 90 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Carrillo has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation providing oversight of telecommunications companies.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Carrillo was an award-winning journalist, writer, and producer. For ten years, she hosted a community-based radio program on Los Angeles Power 106 fm, discussing issues around access to higher education, environmental justice, and political transparency. More recently, she co-founded Reported.ly, an award-winning social media start-up covering human rights, global conflict, and social movements. She is a longtime supporter of labor rights, health care for all, and better conditions for caregivers.

Rep. Carrillo is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo to keep AD-51 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 51st Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County, and includes East Los Angeles and the neighborhoods of Lincoln Heights, Eagle Rock, and Chinatown. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show that 85 percent of AD-51 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 85.9 percent voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

Since the primary, Wendy Carrillo stands unchallenged in this election after she won 86.6 percent of the vote in the primaries. Carrillo’s campaign has raised $438,703.55. She has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money and has accepted funds from all three groups.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is from El Salvador and moved to the Boyle Heights neighborhood in 1985. She has lived in Los Angeles ever since, and first won her seat in 2017. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Carrillo is running for re-election to fight for opportunity, equality, and fairness.

Assemblymember Carrillo’s priorities for AD-51 this year include improving access to quality education and health care, creating economic opportunity, and providing affordable housing. In the Assembly, Carrillo serves on nineteen committees, including Select Committees on Ending the School to Prison Pipeline and Uplifting Girls and Women of Color in California. She was recently a co-author of AB 1482, which protects renters from unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases, and was signed into law in 2019. This year, Carrillo has co-sponsored three bills expanding access to affordable housing and providing medical leave protection for workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. She scores a lifetime score of 90 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Carrillo has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation providing oversight of telecommunications companies.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Carrillo was an award-winning journalist, writer, and producer. For ten years, she hosted a community-based radio program on Los Angeles Power 106 fm, discussing issues around access to higher education, environmental justice, and political transparency. More recently, she co-founded Reported.ly, an award-winning social media start-up covering human rights, global conflict, and social movements. She is a longtime supporter of labor rights, health care for all, and better conditions for caregivers.

Rep. Carrillo is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Wendy Carrillo

Re-elect State Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo to keep AD-51 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 51st Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County, and includes East Los Angeles and the neighborhoods of Lincoln Heights, Eagle Rock, and Chinatown. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show that 85 percent of AD-51 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 85.9 percent voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

Since the primary, Wendy Carrillo stands unchallenged in this election after she won 86.6 percent of the vote in the primaries. Carrillo’s campaign has raised $438,703.55. She has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money and has accepted funds from all three groups.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is from El Salvador and moved to the Boyle Heights neighborhood in 1985. She has lived in Los Angeles ever since, and first won her seat in 2017. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Carrillo is running for re-election to fight for opportunity, equality, and fairness.

Assemblymember Carrillo’s priorities for AD-51 this year include improving access to quality education and health care, creating economic opportunity, and providing affordable housing. In the Assembly, Carrillo serves on nineteen committees, including Select Committees on Ending the School to Prison Pipeline and Uplifting Girls and Women of Color in California. She was recently a co-author of AB 1482, which protects renters from unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases, and was signed into law in 2019. This year, Carrillo has co-sponsored three bills expanding access to affordable housing and providing medical leave protection for workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. She scores a lifetime score of 90 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Carrillo has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation providing oversight of telecommunications companies.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Carrillo was an award-winning journalist, writer, and producer. For ten years, she hosted a community-based radio program on Los Angeles Power 106 fm, discussing issues around access to higher education, environmental justice, and political transparency. More recently, she co-founded Reported.ly, an award-winning social media start-up covering human rights, global conflict, and social movements. She is a longtime supporter of labor rights, health care for all, and better conditions for caregivers.

Rep. Carrillo is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, California Women’s List, Close the Gap CA, Fund Her, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California Teachers Association, Equality California, NARAL Pro-Choice California, Sierra Club California, United Farm Workers

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/wendy-carrillo/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo to keep AD-51 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 51st Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County, and includes East Los Angeles and the neighborhoods of Lincoln Heights, Eagle Rock, and Chinatown. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show that 85 percent of AD-51 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 85.9 percent voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

Since the primary, Wendy Carrillo stands unchallenged in this election after she won 86.6 percent of the vote in the primaries. Carrillo’s campaign has raised $438,703.55. She has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money and has accepted funds from all three groups.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is from El Salvador and moved to the Boyle Heights neighborhood in 1985. She has lived in Los Angeles ever since, and first won her seat in 2017. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Carrillo is running for re-election to fight for opportunity, equality, and fairness.

Assemblymember Carrillo’s priorities for AD-51 this year include improving access to quality education and health care, creating economic opportunity, and providing affordable housing. In the Assembly, Carrillo serves on nineteen committees, including Select Committees on Ending the School to Prison Pipeline and Uplifting Girls and Women of Color in California. She was recently a co-author of AB 1482, which protects renters from unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases, and was signed into law in 2019. This year, Carrillo has co-sponsored three bills expanding access to affordable housing and providing medical leave protection for workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. She scores a lifetime score of 90 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Carrillo has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation providing oversight of telecommunications companies.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Carrillo was an award-winning journalist, writer, and producer. For ten years, she hosted a community-based radio program on Los Angeles Power 106 fm, discussing issues around access to higher education, environmental justice, and political transparency. More recently, she co-founded Reported.ly, an award-winning social media start-up covering human rights, global conflict, and social movements. She is a longtime supporter of labor rights, health care for all, and better conditions for caregivers.

Rep. Carrillo is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Wendy Carrillo

Website
Re-elect State Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo to keep AD-51 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 51st Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County, and includes East Los Angeles and the neighborhoods of Lincoln Heights, Eagle Rock, and Chinatown. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show that 85 percent of AD-51 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 85.9 percent voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

Since the primary, Wendy Carrillo stands unchallenged in this election after she won 86.6 percent of the vote in the primaries. Carrillo’s campaign has raised $438,703.55. She has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money and has accepted funds from all three groups.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is from El Salvador and moved to the Boyle Heights neighborhood in 1985. She has lived in Los Angeles ever since, and first won her seat in 2017. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Carrillo is running for re-election to fight for opportunity, equality, and fairness.

Assemblymember Carrillo’s priorities for AD-51 this year include improving access to quality education and health care, creating economic opportunity, and providing affordable housing. In the Assembly, Carrillo serves on nineteen committees, including Select Committees on Ending the School to Prison Pipeline and Uplifting Girls and Women of Color in California. She was recently a co-author of AB 1482, which protects renters from unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases, and was signed into law in 2019. This year, Carrillo has co-sponsored three bills expanding access to affordable housing and providing medical leave protection for workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. She scores a lifetime score of 90 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Carrillo has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, she has not supported legislation providing oversight of telecommunications companies.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Carrillo was an award-winning journalist, writer, and producer. For ten years, she hosted a community-based radio program on Los Angeles Power 106 fm, discussing issues around access to higher education, environmental justice, and political transparency. More recently, she co-founded Reported.ly, an award-winning social media start-up covering human rights, global conflict, and social movements. She is a longtime supporter of labor rights, health care for all, and better conditions for caregivers.

Rep. Carrillo is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. According to our analysis, Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 52nd District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Freddie Rodriguez

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez to keep AD-52 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 52nd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties and the cities of Pomona, Ontario, and Chino. Democrats typically hold this district and Rodriguez has been the incumbent since 2013. The most recent election results show 65.8 percent of AD-52 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 64.1 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Rodriguez led Republican challenger Toni Holle by a margin of 37.7 percent. Neither candidate has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $460,048.63, including donations from corporations, like Pepsi Co.; police groups, like the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs’; and fossil fuel corporations, like Chevron Corp. Holle’s campaign has raised much less: $1,236.05, mostly from individuals.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez is from and continues to reside in Pomona, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2013. According to campaign materials, he is running to continue to represent his district’s needs in Sacramento.

In the State Assembly, Rodriguez introduced legislation to extend public transportation and address public safety concerns. He sits on twelve committees, and chairs the Standing Committee on Public and Retirement as well as the Select Committee on Local Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he worked as an emergency responder and served on the Pomona City Council. He is a longtime supporter of job creation and public safety.

Rep. Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-52 this year include public safety, the economy, and education. He scores a 53 Lifetime Score of out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Rodriguez has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Rodriguez was absent on key votes pertaining to environmental protection, criminal-justice reform, and workers’ rights.

Rep. Rodriguez is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. Although we disagree with Rodriguez being absent for key votes on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent AD-52, Rodriguez is the most progressive candidate on the ballot. That said, we encourage more progressive candidates that will better reflect this community’s needs to run in future cycles.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Freddie Rodriguez

Re-elect State Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez to keep AD-52 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 52nd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties and the cities of Pomona, Ontario, and Chino. Democrats typically hold this district and Rodriguez has been the incumbent since 2013. The most recent election results show 65.8 percent of AD-52 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 64.1 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Rodriguez led Republican challenger Toni Holle by a margin of 37.7 percent. Neither candidate has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $460,048.63, including donations from corporations, like Pepsi Co.; police groups, like the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs’; and fossil fuel corporations, like Chevron Corp. Holle’s campaign has raised much less: $1,236.05, mostly from individuals.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez is from and continues to reside in Pomona, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2013. According to campaign materials, he is running to continue to represent his district’s needs in Sacramento.

In the State Assembly, Rodriguez introduced legislation to extend public transportation and address public safety concerns. He sits on twelve committees, and chairs the Standing Committee on Public and Retirement as well as the Select Committee on Local Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he worked as an emergency responder and served on the Pomona City Council. He is a longtime supporter of job creation and public safety.

Rep. Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-52 this year include public safety, the economy, and education. He scores a 53 Lifetime Score of out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Rodriguez has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Rodriguez was absent on key votes pertaining to environmental protection, criminal-justice reform, and workers’ rights.

Rep. Rodriguez is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. Although we disagree with Rodriguez being absent for key votes on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent AD-52, Rodriguez is the most progressive candidate on the ballot. That said, we encourage more progressive candidates that will better reflect this community’s needs to run in future cycles.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez to keep AD-52 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 52nd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties and the cities of Pomona, Ontario, and Chino. Democrats typically hold this district and Rodriguez has been the incumbent since 2013. The most recent election results show 65.8 percent of AD-52 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 64.1 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Rodriguez led Republican challenger Toni Holle by a margin of 37.7 percent. Neither candidate has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $460,048.63, including donations from corporations, like Pepsi Co.; police groups, like the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs’; and fossil fuel corporations, like Chevron Corp. Holle’s campaign has raised much less: $1,236.05, mostly from individuals.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez is from and continues to reside in Pomona, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2013. According to campaign materials, he is running to continue to represent his district’s needs in Sacramento.

In the State Assembly, Rodriguez introduced legislation to extend public transportation and address public safety concerns. He sits on twelve committees, and chairs the Standing Committee on Public and Retirement as well as the Select Committee on Local Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he worked as an emergency responder and served on the Pomona City Council. He is a longtime supporter of job creation and public safety.

Rep. Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-52 this year include public safety, the economy, and education. He scores a 53 Lifetime Score of out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Rodriguez has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Rodriguez was absent on key votes pertaining to environmental protection, criminal-justice reform, and workers’ rights.

Rep. Rodriguez is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. Although we disagree with Rodriguez being absent for key votes on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent AD-52, Rodriguez is the most progressive candidate on the ballot. That said, we encourage more progressive candidates that will better reflect this community’s needs to run in future cycles.

Freddie Rodriguez

Re-elect State Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez to keep AD-52 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 52nd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties and the cities of Pomona, Ontario, and Chino. Democrats typically hold this district and Rodriguez has been the incumbent since 2013. The most recent election results show 65.8 percent of AD-52 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 64.1 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Rodriguez led Republican challenger Toni Holle by a margin of 37.7 percent. Neither candidate has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $460,048.63, including donations from corporations, like Pepsi Co.; police groups, like the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs’; and fossil fuel corporations, like Chevron Corp. Holle’s campaign has raised much less: $1,236.05, mostly from individuals.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez is from and continues to reside in Pomona, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2013. According to campaign materials, he is running to continue to represent his district’s needs in Sacramento.

In the State Assembly, Rodriguez introduced legislation to extend public transportation and address public safety concerns. He sits on twelve committees, and chairs the Standing Committee on Public and Retirement as well as the Select Committee on Local Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he worked as an emergency responder and served on the Pomona City Council. He is a longtime supporter of job creation and public safety.

Rep. Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-52 this year include public safety, the economy, and education. He scores a 53 Lifetime Score of out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Rodriguez has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Rodriguez was absent on key votes pertaining to environmental protection, criminal-justice reform, and workers’ rights.

Rep. Rodriguez is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. Although we disagree with Rodriguez being absent for key votes on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent AD-52, Rodriguez is the most progressive candidate on the ballot. That said, we encourage more progressive candidates that will better reflect this community’s needs to run in future cycles.

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/freddie-rodriguez/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez to keep AD-52 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 52nd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties and the cities of Pomona, Ontario, and Chino. Democrats typically hold this district and Rodriguez has been the incumbent since 2013. The most recent election results show 65.8 percent of AD-52 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 64.1 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Rodriguez led Republican challenger Toni Holle by a margin of 37.7 percent. Neither candidate has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $460,048.63, including donations from corporations, like Pepsi Co.; police groups, like the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs’; and fossil fuel corporations, like Chevron Corp. Holle’s campaign has raised much less: $1,236.05, mostly from individuals.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez is from and continues to reside in Pomona, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2013. According to campaign materials, he is running to continue to represent his district’s needs in Sacramento.

In the State Assembly, Rodriguez introduced legislation to extend public transportation and address public safety concerns. He sits on twelve committees, and chairs the Standing Committee on Public and Retirement as well as the Select Committee on Local Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he worked as an emergency responder and served on the Pomona City Council. He is a longtime supporter of job creation and public safety.

Rep. Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-52 this year include public safety, the economy, and education. He scores a 53 Lifetime Score of out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Rodriguez has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Rodriguez was absent on key votes pertaining to environmental protection, criminal-justice reform, and workers’ rights.

Rep. Rodriguez is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. Although we disagree with Rodriguez being absent for key votes on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent AD-52, Rodriguez is the most progressive candidate on the ballot. That said, we encourage more progressive candidates that will better reflect this community’s needs to run in future cycles.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Freddie Rodriguez

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez to keep AD-52 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 52nd Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties and the cities of Pomona, Ontario, and Chino. Democrats typically hold this district and Rodriguez has been the incumbent since 2013. The most recent election results show 65.8 percent of AD-52 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 64.1 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Rodriguez led Republican challenger Toni Holle by a margin of 37.7 percent. Neither candidate has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $460,048.63, including donations from corporations, like Pepsi Co.; police groups, like the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs’; and fossil fuel corporations, like Chevron Corp. Holle’s campaign has raised much less: $1,236.05, mostly from individuals.

About the Candidate

Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez is from and continues to reside in Pomona, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2013. According to campaign materials, he is running to continue to represent his district’s needs in Sacramento.

In the State Assembly, Rodriguez introduced legislation to extend public transportation and address public safety concerns. He sits on twelve committees, and chairs the Standing Committee on Public and Retirement as well as the Select Committee on Local Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he worked as an emergency responder and served on the Pomona City Council. He is a longtime supporter of job creation and public safety.

Rep. Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-52 this year include public safety, the economy, and education. He scores a 53 Lifetime Score of out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Rodriguez has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Rodriguez was absent on key votes pertaining to environmental protection, criminal-justice reform, and workers’ rights.

Rep. Rodriguez is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. Although we disagree with Rodriguez being absent for key votes on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent AD-52, Rodriguez is the most progressive candidate on the ballot. That said, we encourage more progressive candidates that will better reflect this community’s needs to run in future cycles.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 54th District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Sydney Kamlager-Dove

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager-Dove to keep AD-54 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent ,and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 54th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-54 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove led Democratic challenger Tracy Bernard Jones by a margin of 26.9 percent. Rep. Kamlager-Dove’s campaign has raised $456,755 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Jones’s campaign has not filed any apparent campaign finance records with the California Secretary of State and has not committed to any pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, former district director for California State Senator and Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell, is from Chicago, IL, and has lived in Los Angeles since 1990. According to campaign materials, Rep. Kamlager-Dove is running for re-election to fight for more equitable and innovative neighborhoods.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove’s priorities for AD-54 this year include gun violence prevention, further developing her free preschool initiative, and reducing packaging waste. She currently sits on six committees: the Rules (State Assembly and Legislature), Communications and Conveyance, Insurance, Public Safety, and Arts/Entertainment/Sports/Tourism/Internet Media Committees. Rep. Kamlager-Dove has sponsored 235 bills on such topics as prohibiting no-rehire provisions, banning biometric surveillance in police body cameras, and prohibiting the state from charging admin fees to inmates seeking medical care this year, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. She scores a lifetime 88 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has not supported funding public banks, equalizing out-of-pocket emergency health-care costs regardless of insurance coverage, and preventing dialysis companies from redirecting patients away from Medi-Cal. She has accepted $11,400 from DaVita Inc., a private company that commands 37 percent of the dialysis market.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove first worked for the Social and Public Art Resource Center (SPARC) in Venice, CA. In 2010, she worked on Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell’s State Assembly campaign, becoming district director after Mitchell’s victory. In 2015, Kamlager-Dove was elected to the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees, and in 2018, she entered the California State Assembly, winning the special election resulting from Sebastian Ridley-Thomas’s resignation. She holds an undergraduate degree in political science from USC, a master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon, sits on the board of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles, and is a longtime supporter of recognizing and quashing racial and economic biases in the administration of California’s public services.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also backed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, California Association of Realtors, California Apartment Association, and the aforementioned DaVita Inc. However, we judge that her legislative accomplishments thus far outweigh her occasionally moderate voting record and lack of campaign finance pledges. According to our analysis, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Sydney Kamlager-Dove

Re-elect State Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager-Dove to keep AD-54 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent ,and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 54th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-54 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove led Democratic challenger Tracy Bernard Jones by a margin of 26.9 percent. Rep. Kamlager-Dove’s campaign has raised $456,755 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Jones’s campaign has not filed any apparent campaign finance records with the California Secretary of State and has not committed to any pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, former district director for California State Senator and Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell, is from Chicago, IL, and has lived in Los Angeles since 1990. According to campaign materials, Rep. Kamlager-Dove is running for re-election to fight for more equitable and innovative neighborhoods.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove’s priorities for AD-54 this year include gun violence prevention, further developing her free preschool initiative, and reducing packaging waste. She currently sits on six committees: the Rules (State Assembly and Legislature), Communications and Conveyance, Insurance, Public Safety, and Arts/Entertainment/Sports/Tourism/Internet Media Committees. Rep. Kamlager-Dove has sponsored 235 bills on such topics as prohibiting no-rehire provisions, banning biometric surveillance in police body cameras, and prohibiting the state from charging admin fees to inmates seeking medical care this year, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. She scores a lifetime 88 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has not supported funding public banks, equalizing out-of-pocket emergency health-care costs regardless of insurance coverage, and preventing dialysis companies from redirecting patients away from Medi-Cal. She has accepted $11,400 from DaVita Inc., a private company that commands 37 percent of the dialysis market.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove first worked for the Social and Public Art Resource Center (SPARC) in Venice, CA. In 2010, she worked on Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell’s State Assembly campaign, becoming district director after Mitchell’s victory. In 2015, Kamlager-Dove was elected to the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees, and in 2018, she entered the California State Assembly, winning the special election resulting from Sebastian Ridley-Thomas’s resignation. She holds an undergraduate degree in political science from USC, a master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon, sits on the board of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles, and is a longtime supporter of recognizing and quashing racial and economic biases in the administration of California’s public services.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also backed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, California Association of Realtors, California Apartment Association, and the aforementioned DaVita Inc. However, we judge that her legislative accomplishments thus far outweigh her occasionally moderate voting record and lack of campaign finance pledges. According to our analysis, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager-Dove to keep AD-54 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent ,and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 54th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-54 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove led Democratic challenger Tracy Bernard Jones by a margin of 26.9 percent. Rep. Kamlager-Dove’s campaign has raised $456,755 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Jones’s campaign has not filed any apparent campaign finance records with the California Secretary of State and has not committed to any pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, former district director for California State Senator and Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell, is from Chicago, IL, and has lived in Los Angeles since 1990. According to campaign materials, Rep. Kamlager-Dove is running for re-election to fight for more equitable and innovative neighborhoods.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove’s priorities for AD-54 this year include gun violence prevention, further developing her free preschool initiative, and reducing packaging waste. She currently sits on six committees: the Rules (State Assembly and Legislature), Communications and Conveyance, Insurance, Public Safety, and Arts/Entertainment/Sports/Tourism/Internet Media Committees. Rep. Kamlager-Dove has sponsored 235 bills on such topics as prohibiting no-rehire provisions, banning biometric surveillance in police body cameras, and prohibiting the state from charging admin fees to inmates seeking medical care this year, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. She scores a lifetime 88 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has not supported funding public banks, equalizing out-of-pocket emergency health-care costs regardless of insurance coverage, and preventing dialysis companies from redirecting patients away from Medi-Cal. She has accepted $11,400 from DaVita Inc., a private company that commands 37 percent of the dialysis market.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove first worked for the Social and Public Art Resource Center (SPARC) in Venice, CA. In 2010, she worked on Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell’s State Assembly campaign, becoming district director after Mitchell’s victory. In 2015, Kamlager-Dove was elected to the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees, and in 2018, she entered the California State Assembly, winning the special election resulting from Sebastian Ridley-Thomas’s resignation. She holds an undergraduate degree in political science from USC, a master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon, sits on the board of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles, and is a longtime supporter of recognizing and quashing racial and economic biases in the administration of California’s public services.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also backed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, California Association of Realtors, California Apartment Association, and the aforementioned DaVita Inc. However, we judge that her legislative accomplishments thus far outweigh her occasionally moderate voting record and lack of campaign finance pledges. According to our analysis, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office.

Sydney Kamlager-Dove

Re-elect State Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager-Dove to keep AD-54 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent ,and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 54th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-54 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove led Democratic challenger Tracy Bernard Jones by a margin of 26.9 percent. Rep. Kamlager-Dove’s campaign has raised $456,755 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Jones’s campaign has not filed any apparent campaign finance records with the California Secretary of State and has not committed to any pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, former district director for California State Senator and Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell, is from Chicago, IL, and has lived in Los Angeles since 1990. According to campaign materials, Rep. Kamlager-Dove is running for re-election to fight for more equitable and innovative neighborhoods.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove’s priorities for AD-54 this year include gun violence prevention, further developing her free preschool initiative, and reducing packaging waste. She currently sits on six committees: the Rules (State Assembly and Legislature), Communications and Conveyance, Insurance, Public Safety, and Arts/Entertainment/Sports/Tourism/Internet Media Committees. Rep. Kamlager-Dove has sponsored 235 bills on such topics as prohibiting no-rehire provisions, banning biometric surveillance in police body cameras, and prohibiting the state from charging admin fees to inmates seeking medical care this year, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. She scores a lifetime 88 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has not supported funding public banks, equalizing out-of-pocket emergency health-care costs regardless of insurance coverage, and preventing dialysis companies from redirecting patients away from Medi-Cal. She has accepted $11,400 from DaVita Inc., a private company that commands 37 percent of the dialysis market.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove first worked for the Social and Public Art Resource Center (SPARC) in Venice, CA. In 2010, she worked on Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell’s State Assembly campaign, becoming district director after Mitchell’s victory. In 2015, Kamlager-Dove was elected to the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees, and in 2018, she entered the California State Assembly, winning the special election resulting from Sebastian Ridley-Thomas’s resignation. She holds an undergraduate degree in political science from USC, a master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon, sits on the board of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles, and is a longtime supporter of recognizing and quashing racial and economic biases in the administration of California’s public services.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also backed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, California Association of Realtors, California Apartment Association, and the aforementioned DaVita Inc. However, we judge that her legislative accomplishments thus far outweigh her occasionally moderate voting record and lack of campaign finance pledges. According to our analysis, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office.

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, California Women’s List, Close the Gap CA, Emily's List, Fund Her, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Teachers Association, Equality California, NARAL Pro-Choice California, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Sierra Club California

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/sydney-kamlager/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager-Dove to keep AD-54 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent ,and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 54th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-54 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove led Democratic challenger Tracy Bernard Jones by a margin of 26.9 percent. Rep. Kamlager-Dove’s campaign has raised $456,755 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Jones’s campaign has not filed any apparent campaign finance records with the California Secretary of State and has not committed to any pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, former district director for California State Senator and Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell, is from Chicago, IL, and has lived in Los Angeles since 1990. According to campaign materials, Rep. Kamlager-Dove is running for re-election to fight for more equitable and innovative neighborhoods.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove’s priorities for AD-54 this year include gun violence prevention, further developing her free preschool initiative, and reducing packaging waste. She currently sits on six committees: the Rules (State Assembly and Legislature), Communications and Conveyance, Insurance, Public Safety, and Arts/Entertainment/Sports/Tourism/Internet Media Committees. Rep. Kamlager-Dove has sponsored 235 bills on such topics as prohibiting no-rehire provisions, banning biometric surveillance in police body cameras, and prohibiting the state from charging admin fees to inmates seeking medical care this year, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. She scores a lifetime 88 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has not supported funding public banks, equalizing out-of-pocket emergency health-care costs regardless of insurance coverage, and preventing dialysis companies from redirecting patients away from Medi-Cal. She has accepted $11,400 from DaVita Inc., a private company that commands 37 percent of the dialysis market.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove first worked for the Social and Public Art Resource Center (SPARC) in Venice, CA. In 2010, she worked on Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell’s State Assembly campaign, becoming district director after Mitchell’s victory. In 2015, Kamlager-Dove was elected to the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees, and in 2018, she entered the California State Assembly, winning the special election resulting from Sebastian Ridley-Thomas’s resignation. She holds an undergraduate degree in political science from USC, a master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon, sits on the board of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles, and is a longtime supporter of recognizing and quashing racial and economic biases in the administration of California’s public services.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also backed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, California Association of Realtors, California Apartment Association, and the aforementioned DaVita Inc. However, we judge that her legislative accomplishments thus far outweigh her occasionally moderate voting record and lack of campaign finance pledges. According to our analysis, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Sydney Kamlager-Dove

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager-Dove to keep AD-54 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent ,and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 54th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-54 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove led Democratic challenger Tracy Bernard Jones by a margin of 26.9 percent. Rep. Kamlager-Dove’s campaign has raised $456,755 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Jones’s campaign has not filed any apparent campaign finance records with the California Secretary of State and has not committed to any pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, former district director for California State Senator and Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell, is from Chicago, IL, and has lived in Los Angeles since 1990. According to campaign materials, Rep. Kamlager-Dove is running for re-election to fight for more equitable and innovative neighborhoods.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove’s priorities for AD-54 this year include gun violence prevention, further developing her free preschool initiative, and reducing packaging waste. She currently sits on six committees: the Rules (State Assembly and Legislature), Communications and Conveyance, Insurance, Public Safety, and Arts/Entertainment/Sports/Tourism/Internet Media Committees. Rep. Kamlager-Dove has sponsored 235 bills on such topics as prohibiting no-rehire provisions, banning biometric surveillance in police body cameras, and prohibiting the state from charging admin fees to inmates seeking medical care this year, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. She scores a lifetime 88 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has supported the most progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Kamlager-Dove has not supported funding public banks, equalizing out-of-pocket emergency health-care costs regardless of insurance coverage, and preventing dialysis companies from redirecting patients away from Medi-Cal. She has accepted $11,400 from DaVita Inc., a private company that commands 37 percent of the dialysis market.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove first worked for the Social and Public Art Resource Center (SPARC) in Venice, CA. In 2010, she worked on Courage California Endorsee Holly J. Mitchell’s State Assembly campaign, becoming district director after Mitchell’s victory. In 2015, Kamlager-Dove was elected to the Los Angeles Community College District Board of Trustees, and in 2018, she entered the California State Assembly, winning the special election resulting from Sebastian Ridley-Thomas’s resignation. She holds an undergraduate degree in political science from USC, a master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon, sits on the board of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles, and is a longtime supporter of recognizing and quashing racial and economic biases in the administration of California’s public services.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. She is also backed by the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, California Association of Realtors, California Apartment Association, and the aforementioned DaVita Inc. However, we judge that her legislative accomplishments thus far outweigh her occasionally moderate voting record and lack of campaign finance pledges. According to our analysis, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 55th District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Andrew Rodriguez

Website Endorsements
Elect State Assemblymember Andrew Rodriguez to push AD-55 in the right direction.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 55th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Republicans typically hold this district. The most recent election results show 49.9 percent of AD-55 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 52.1 percent of the district voted for Cox for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat challenger Representative Rodriguez trailed Republican challenger Phillip Chen by a margin of 12.4 percent. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $559,650.25. His campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money, and has accepted funds from a police group. Opponent Chen’s campaign has raised $774,814.84 and has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money. Some of Chen’s biggest donors are police and corporate PACs.

About the Candidate

Andrew Rodriguez is a lifelong resident of the City of Walnut and the 55th State Assembly District. According to campaign materials, he is running for the position to be an accessible, transparent, and effective representative for his community in Sacramento.

Rodriguez is mayor pro tem of the city of Walnut. In this position, he has advocated for more housing in the district and smart growth strategies for the city, and he completed a general plan land-use update for the city for the first time in forty years. He has also worked as a land-use planner in the San Gabriel Valley and on several political campaigns, including then Newark Mayor Cory Booker’s successful U.S. Senate bid.

Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-55 this year include strengthening public education, expanding economic opportunity, and addressing housing and homelessness.

When he was sworn in as mayor of Walnut, Rodriguez was the youngest councilmember serving in Los Angeles County. During his term, Andrew and the city council have balanced the city's budget annually, and have worked to make Walnut one of the safest cities in California. In 2019, Walnut was ranked as one of the financially healthiest cities in California by the State Controller's Office.

Andrew Rodriguez is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. Assemblymember Chen has shown that he does not represent the needs of constituents in facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians. According to our analysis, Andrew Rodriguez is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Andrew Rodriguez

Elect State Assemblymember Andrew Rodriguez to push AD-55 in the right direction.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 55th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Republicans typically hold this district. The most recent election results show 49.9 percent of AD-55 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 52.1 percent of the district voted for Cox for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat challenger Representative Rodriguez trailed Republican challenger Phillip Chen by a margin of 12.4 percent. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $559,650.25. His campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money, and has accepted funds from a police group. Opponent Chen’s campaign has raised $774,814.84 and has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money. Some of Chen’s biggest donors are police and corporate PACs.

About the Candidate

Andrew Rodriguez is a lifelong resident of the City of Walnut and the 55th State Assembly District. According to campaign materials, he is running for the position to be an accessible, transparent, and effective representative for his community in Sacramento.

Rodriguez is mayor pro tem of the city of Walnut. In this position, he has advocated for more housing in the district and smart growth strategies for the city, and he completed a general plan land-use update for the city for the first time in forty years. He has also worked as a land-use planner in the San Gabriel Valley and on several political campaigns, including then Newark Mayor Cory Booker’s successful U.S. Senate bid.

Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-55 this year include strengthening public education, expanding economic opportunity, and addressing housing and homelessness.

When he was sworn in as mayor of Walnut, Rodriguez was the youngest councilmember serving in Los Angeles County. During his term, Andrew and the city council have balanced the city's budget annually, and have worked to make Walnut one of the safest cities in California. In 2019, Walnut was ranked as one of the financially healthiest cities in California by the State Controller's Office.

Andrew Rodriguez is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. Assemblymember Chen has shown that he does not represent the needs of constituents in facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians. According to our analysis, Andrew Rodriguez is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Elect State Assemblymember Andrew Rodriguez to push AD-55 in the right direction.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 55th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Republicans typically hold this district. The most recent election results show 49.9 percent of AD-55 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 52.1 percent of the district voted for Cox for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat challenger Representative Rodriguez trailed Republican challenger Phillip Chen by a margin of 12.4 percent. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $559,650.25. His campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money, and has accepted funds from a police group. Opponent Chen’s campaign has raised $774,814.84 and has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money. Some of Chen’s biggest donors are police and corporate PACs.

About the Candidate

Andrew Rodriguez is a lifelong resident of the City of Walnut and the 55th State Assembly District. According to campaign materials, he is running for the position to be an accessible, transparent, and effective representative for his community in Sacramento.

Rodriguez is mayor pro tem of the city of Walnut. In this position, he has advocated for more housing in the district and smart growth strategies for the city, and he completed a general plan land-use update for the city for the first time in forty years. He has also worked as a land-use planner in the San Gabriel Valley and on several political campaigns, including then Newark Mayor Cory Booker’s successful U.S. Senate bid.

Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-55 this year include strengthening public education, expanding economic opportunity, and addressing housing and homelessness.

When he was sworn in as mayor of Walnut, Rodriguez was the youngest councilmember serving in Los Angeles County. During his term, Andrew and the city council have balanced the city's budget annually, and have worked to make Walnut one of the safest cities in California. In 2019, Walnut was ranked as one of the financially healthiest cities in California by the State Controller's Office.

Andrew Rodriguez is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. Assemblymember Chen has shown that he does not represent the needs of constituents in facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians. According to our analysis, Andrew Rodriguez is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Andrew Rodriguez

Elect State Assemblymember Andrew Rodriguez to push AD-55 in the right direction.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 55th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Republicans typically hold this district. The most recent election results show 49.9 percent of AD-55 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 52.1 percent of the district voted for Cox for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat challenger Representative Rodriguez trailed Republican challenger Phillip Chen by a margin of 12.4 percent. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $559,650.25. His campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money, and has accepted funds from a police group. Opponent Chen’s campaign has raised $774,814.84 and has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money. Some of Chen’s biggest donors are police and corporate PACs.

About the Candidate

Andrew Rodriguez is a lifelong resident of the City of Walnut and the 55th State Assembly District. According to campaign materials, he is running for the position to be an accessible, transparent, and effective representative for his community in Sacramento.

Rodriguez is mayor pro tem of the city of Walnut. In this position, he has advocated for more housing in the district and smart growth strategies for the city, and he completed a general plan land-use update for the city for the first time in forty years. He has also worked as a land-use planner in the San Gabriel Valley and on several political campaigns, including then Newark Mayor Cory Booker’s successful U.S. Senate bid.

Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-55 this year include strengthening public education, expanding economic opportunity, and addressing housing and homelessness.

When he was sworn in as mayor of Walnut, Rodriguez was the youngest councilmember serving in Los Angeles County. During his term, Andrew and the city council have balanced the city's budget annually, and have worked to make Walnut one of the safest cities in California. In 2019, Walnut was ranked as one of the financially healthiest cities in California by the State Controller's Office.

Andrew Rodriguez is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. Assemblymember Chen has shown that he does not represent the needs of constituents in facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians. According to our analysis, Andrew Rodriguez is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME 57, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Nurses Association, California Teachers Association, CHIRLA Action fund, Equality California, NARAL Pro-Choice California, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Sierra Club California, United Domestic Workers

Elect State Assemblymember Andrew Rodriguez to push AD-55 in the right direction.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 55th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Republicans typically hold this district. The most recent election results show 49.9 percent of AD-55 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 52.1 percent of the district voted for Cox for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat challenger Representative Rodriguez trailed Republican challenger Phillip Chen by a margin of 12.4 percent. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $559,650.25. His campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money, and has accepted funds from a police group. Opponent Chen’s campaign has raised $774,814.84 and has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money. Some of Chen’s biggest donors are police and corporate PACs.

About the Candidate

Andrew Rodriguez is a lifelong resident of the City of Walnut and the 55th State Assembly District. According to campaign materials, he is running for the position to be an accessible, transparent, and effective representative for his community in Sacramento.

Rodriguez is mayor pro tem of the city of Walnut. In this position, he has advocated for more housing in the district and smart growth strategies for the city, and he completed a general plan land-use update for the city for the first time in forty years. He has also worked as a land-use planner in the San Gabriel Valley and on several political campaigns, including then Newark Mayor Cory Booker’s successful U.S. Senate bid.

Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-55 this year include strengthening public education, expanding economic opportunity, and addressing housing and homelessness.

When he was sworn in as mayor of Walnut, Rodriguez was the youngest councilmember serving in Los Angeles County. During his term, Andrew and the city council have balanced the city's budget annually, and have worked to make Walnut one of the safest cities in California. In 2019, Walnut was ranked as one of the financially healthiest cities in California by the State Controller's Office.

Andrew Rodriguez is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. Assemblymember Chen has shown that he does not represent the needs of constituents in facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians. According to our analysis, Andrew Rodriguez is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Andrew Rodriguez

Website Endorsements
Elect State Assemblymember Andrew Rodriguez to push AD-55 in the right direction.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 55th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino Counties. Republicans typically hold this district. The most recent election results show 49.9 percent of AD-55 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 52.1 percent of the district voted for Cox for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat challenger Representative Rodriguez trailed Republican challenger Phillip Chen by a margin of 12.4 percent. Rodriguez’s campaign has raised $559,650.25. His campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money, and has accepted funds from a police group. Opponent Chen’s campaign has raised $774,814.84 and has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and police money. Some of Chen’s biggest donors are police and corporate PACs.

About the Candidate

Andrew Rodriguez is a lifelong resident of the City of Walnut and the 55th State Assembly District. According to campaign materials, he is running for the position to be an accessible, transparent, and effective representative for his community in Sacramento.

Rodriguez is mayor pro tem of the city of Walnut. In this position, he has advocated for more housing in the district and smart growth strategies for the city, and he completed a general plan land-use update for the city for the first time in forty years. He has also worked as a land-use planner in the San Gabriel Valley and on several political campaigns, including then Newark Mayor Cory Booker’s successful U.S. Senate bid.

Rodriguez’s priorities for AD-55 this year include strengthening public education, expanding economic opportunity, and addressing housing and homelessness.

When he was sworn in as mayor of Walnut, Rodriguez was the youngest councilmember serving in Los Angeles County. During his term, Andrew and the city council have balanced the city's budget annually, and have worked to make Walnut one of the safest cities in California. In 2019, Walnut was ranked as one of the financially healthiest cities in California by the State Controller's Office.

Andrew Rodriguez is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. Assemblymember Chen has shown that he does not represent the needs of constituents in facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians. According to our analysis, Andrew Rodriguez is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 57th District

Member of the State Assembly

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 57th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and the cities of South El Monte, Norwalk, and the City of Industry. Democrats typically win in this district. The most recent election results show 65.8 percent of AD-57 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 64.2 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018. In this district, outgoing Assembly Majority Leader Calderon has high name recognition because he has held this seat since 2012, which he was elected to following his father’s tenure. Democrat Lisa Calderon is Ian Calderon’s stepmother, which, if she wins, would make the seat held by a third Calderon in a row.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat Lisa Calderon trailed Republican challenger Jessica Martinez by a margin of 8.6 percent. Calderon’s campaign has raised $480,274.00, has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted funds from all three groups. Martinez has raised much less than Calderon, with $16,800.84, mostly from individual contributions. Martinez’s campaign has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money.

About the Candidate

Based on their moderate stances and vague policy platform, Lisa Calderon is likely to provide no progressive leadership in office. Because the Democratic candidate in this race is considered to be a safe win in this district, we feel comfortable providing no recommendation in this race. Keep reading for progressive recommendations in other key races and on ballot measures where your vote can make a critical difference.

No Progressive Candidate - AD57

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

About the Race

About the Candidate

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

About the Race

About the Candidate

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 61st District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Jose Medina
Re-elect State Assemblymember Jose Medina to keep AD-61 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 61st Assembly District includes parts of Riverside County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-61 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Jose Medina led Republican challenger Ali Mazarei by a margin of 32.4 percent. Medina’s campaign has raised $419,689 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Mazarei’s campaign has raised $176,281, almost entirely from his own pocket and his Arco gas station business, and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Jose Medina, a former educator and four-time assemblymember, is from San Jose, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Medina is running for re-election to further his efforts to achieve debt-free college.

Rep. Jose Medina’s priorities for AD-61 this year include making Ethnic Studies a high school graduation requirement and engaging young people with his Youth Advisory Committee. He currently sits on six committees: the Higher Education (chair), Arts, Accountability and Administrative Review, Business and Professions, Budget, and Transportation Committees. Rep. Medina has sponsored 239 bills this year on such topics as services for undocumented minors, occupational health and safety, and reducing the use of force by police, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a lifetime 75 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Medina has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Medina has not supported preventing dialysis companies from steering patients away from Medi-Cal, strengthening emissions-reporting requirements, establishing oil-spill contingency plans, reducing single-use packaging waste, allowing the sponsorship of public banks, forcing debt collectors to leave a final $1,724 in a bank account, and establishing an organization to raise and distribute affordable housing funds. His No vote on the dialysis bill comes after accepting a total of $14,500 from DaVita Inc., a private dialysis provider that commands 37 percent of the market.

Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Rep. Jose Medina taught in the Riverside public school system, serving as a school board member on the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education and completing three successful terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees. During his first term in the Assembly, Rep. Medina secured $15 million for the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine. In 2018, he secured $9.7 million to assist in the development of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture, and Industry. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of California, Riverside, and is a longtime supporter of Chicano history and art in the region.

Rep. Jose Medina has received endorsements from some progressive groups in the district. He has also been endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California, California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. He has also accepted money from Pfizer, DaVita Inc., and a number of fossil fuel companies and interests. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Ali Mazarei’s potential policies outweighs Medina’s moderate voting record and inaction on campaign financing. According to our analysis, Rep. Jose Medina is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office at this time, but we urge progressive voices in the district to make themselves heard and run for office in the future.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Jose Medina

Re-elect State Assemblymember Jose Medina to keep AD-61 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 61st Assembly District includes parts of Riverside County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-61 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Jose Medina led Republican challenger Ali Mazarei by a margin of 32.4 percent. Medina’s campaign has raised $419,689 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Mazarei’s campaign has raised $176,281, almost entirely from his own pocket and his Arco gas station business, and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Jose Medina, a former educator and four-time assemblymember, is from San Jose, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Medina is running for re-election to further his efforts to achieve debt-free college.

Rep. Jose Medina’s priorities for AD-61 this year include making Ethnic Studies a high school graduation requirement and engaging young people with his Youth Advisory Committee. He currently sits on six committees: the Higher Education (chair), Arts, Accountability and Administrative Review, Business and Professions, Budget, and Transportation Committees. Rep. Medina has sponsored 239 bills this year on such topics as services for undocumented minors, occupational health and safety, and reducing the use of force by police, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a lifetime 75 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Medina has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Medina has not supported preventing dialysis companies from steering patients away from Medi-Cal, strengthening emissions-reporting requirements, establishing oil-spill contingency plans, reducing single-use packaging waste, allowing the sponsorship of public banks, forcing debt collectors to leave a final $1,724 in a bank account, and establishing an organization to raise and distribute affordable housing funds. His No vote on the dialysis bill comes after accepting a total of $14,500 from DaVita Inc., a private dialysis provider that commands 37 percent of the market.

Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Rep. Jose Medina taught in the Riverside public school system, serving as a school board member on the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education and completing three successful terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees. During his first term in the Assembly, Rep. Medina secured $15 million for the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine. In 2018, he secured $9.7 million to assist in the development of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture, and Industry. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of California, Riverside, and is a longtime supporter of Chicano history and art in the region.

Rep. Jose Medina has received endorsements from some progressive groups in the district. He has also been endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California, California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. He has also accepted money from Pfizer, DaVita Inc., and a number of fossil fuel companies and interests. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Ali Mazarei’s potential policies outweighs Medina’s moderate voting record and inaction on campaign financing. According to our analysis, Rep. Jose Medina is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office at this time, but we urge progressive voices in the district to make themselves heard and run for office in the future.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Jose Medina to keep AD-61 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 61st Assembly District includes parts of Riverside County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-61 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Jose Medina led Republican challenger Ali Mazarei by a margin of 32.4 percent. Medina’s campaign has raised $419,689 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Mazarei’s campaign has raised $176,281, almost entirely from his own pocket and his Arco gas station business, and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Jose Medina, a former educator and four-time assemblymember, is from San Jose, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Medina is running for re-election to further his efforts to achieve debt-free college.

Rep. Jose Medina’s priorities for AD-61 this year include making Ethnic Studies a high school graduation requirement and engaging young people with his Youth Advisory Committee. He currently sits on six committees: the Higher Education (chair), Arts, Accountability and Administrative Review, Business and Professions, Budget, and Transportation Committees. Rep. Medina has sponsored 239 bills this year on such topics as services for undocumented minors, occupational health and safety, and reducing the use of force by police, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a lifetime 75 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Medina has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Medina has not supported preventing dialysis companies from steering patients away from Medi-Cal, strengthening emissions-reporting requirements, establishing oil-spill contingency plans, reducing single-use packaging waste, allowing the sponsorship of public banks, forcing debt collectors to leave a final $1,724 in a bank account, and establishing an organization to raise and distribute affordable housing funds. His No vote on the dialysis bill comes after accepting a total of $14,500 from DaVita Inc., a private dialysis provider that commands 37 percent of the market.

Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Rep. Jose Medina taught in the Riverside public school system, serving as a school board member on the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education and completing three successful terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees. During his first term in the Assembly, Rep. Medina secured $15 million for the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine. In 2018, he secured $9.7 million to assist in the development of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture, and Industry. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of California, Riverside, and is a longtime supporter of Chicano history and art in the region.

Rep. Jose Medina has received endorsements from some progressive groups in the district. He has also been endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California, California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. He has also accepted money from Pfizer, DaVita Inc., and a number of fossil fuel companies and interests. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Ali Mazarei’s potential policies outweighs Medina’s moderate voting record and inaction on campaign financing. According to our analysis, Rep. Jose Medina is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office at this time, but we urge progressive voices in the district to make themselves heard and run for office in the future.

Jose Medina

Re-elect State Assemblymember Jose Medina to keep AD-61 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 61st Assembly District includes parts of Riverside County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-61 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Jose Medina led Republican challenger Ali Mazarei by a margin of 32.4 percent. Medina’s campaign has raised $419,689 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Mazarei’s campaign has raised $176,281, almost entirely from his own pocket and his Arco gas station business, and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Jose Medina, a former educator and four-time assemblymember, is from San Jose, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Medina is running for re-election to further his efforts to achieve debt-free college.

Rep. Jose Medina’s priorities for AD-61 this year include making Ethnic Studies a high school graduation requirement and engaging young people with his Youth Advisory Committee. He currently sits on six committees: the Higher Education (chair), Arts, Accountability and Administrative Review, Business and Professions, Budget, and Transportation Committees. Rep. Medina has sponsored 239 bills this year on such topics as services for undocumented minors, occupational health and safety, and reducing the use of force by police, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a lifetime 75 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Medina has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Medina has not supported preventing dialysis companies from steering patients away from Medi-Cal, strengthening emissions-reporting requirements, establishing oil-spill contingency plans, reducing single-use packaging waste, allowing the sponsorship of public banks, forcing debt collectors to leave a final $1,724 in a bank account, and establishing an organization to raise and distribute affordable housing funds. His No vote on the dialysis bill comes after accepting a total of $14,500 from DaVita Inc., a private dialysis provider that commands 37 percent of the market.

Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Rep. Jose Medina taught in the Riverside public school system, serving as a school board member on the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education and completing three successful terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees. During his first term in the Assembly, Rep. Medina secured $15 million for the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine. In 2018, he secured $9.7 million to assist in the development of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture, and Industry. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of California, Riverside, and is a longtime supporter of Chicano history and art in the region.

Rep. Jose Medina has received endorsements from some progressive groups in the district. He has also been endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California, California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. He has also accepted money from Pfizer, DaVita Inc., and a number of fossil fuel companies and interests. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Ali Mazarei’s potential policies outweighs Medina’s moderate voting record and inaction on campaign financing. According to our analysis, Rep. Jose Medina is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office at this time, but we urge progressive voices in the district to make themselves heard and run for office in the future.

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/jose-medina/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Jose Medina to keep AD-61 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 61st Assembly District includes parts of Riverside County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-61 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Jose Medina led Republican challenger Ali Mazarei by a margin of 32.4 percent. Medina’s campaign has raised $419,689 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Mazarei’s campaign has raised $176,281, almost entirely from his own pocket and his Arco gas station business, and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Jose Medina, a former educator and four-time assemblymember, is from San Jose, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Medina is running for re-election to further his efforts to achieve debt-free college.

Rep. Jose Medina’s priorities for AD-61 this year include making Ethnic Studies a high school graduation requirement and engaging young people with his Youth Advisory Committee. He currently sits on six committees: the Higher Education (chair), Arts, Accountability and Administrative Review, Business and Professions, Budget, and Transportation Committees. Rep. Medina has sponsored 239 bills this year on such topics as services for undocumented minors, occupational health and safety, and reducing the use of force by police, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a lifetime 75 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Medina has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Medina has not supported preventing dialysis companies from steering patients away from Medi-Cal, strengthening emissions-reporting requirements, establishing oil-spill contingency plans, reducing single-use packaging waste, allowing the sponsorship of public banks, forcing debt collectors to leave a final $1,724 in a bank account, and establishing an organization to raise and distribute affordable housing funds. His No vote on the dialysis bill comes after accepting a total of $14,500 from DaVita Inc., a private dialysis provider that commands 37 percent of the market.

Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Rep. Jose Medina taught in the Riverside public school system, serving as a school board member on the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education and completing three successful terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees. During his first term in the Assembly, Rep. Medina secured $15 million for the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine. In 2018, he secured $9.7 million to assist in the development of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture, and Industry. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of California, Riverside, and is a longtime supporter of Chicano history and art in the region.

Rep. Jose Medina has received endorsements from some progressive groups in the district. He has also been endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California, California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. He has also accepted money from Pfizer, DaVita Inc., and a number of fossil fuel companies and interests. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Ali Mazarei’s potential policies outweighs Medina’s moderate voting record and inaction on campaign financing. According to our analysis, Rep. Jose Medina is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office at this time, but we urge progressive voices in the district to make themselves heard and run for office in the future.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Jose Medina
Re-elect State Assemblymember Jose Medina to keep AD-61 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 61st Assembly District includes parts of Riverside County. Democrats typically hold this district. The most recent election results show AD-61 voted for Hillary Clinton for president in 2016 and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Jose Medina led Republican challenger Ali Mazarei by a margin of 32.4 percent. Medina’s campaign has raised $419,689 and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges. Mazarei’s campaign has raised $176,281, almost entirely from his own pocket and his Arco gas station business, and has not committed to any campaign finance pledges.

About the Candidate

Rep. Jose Medina, a former educator and four-time assemblymember, is from San Jose, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Medina is running for re-election to further his efforts to achieve debt-free college.

Rep. Jose Medina’s priorities for AD-61 this year include making Ethnic Studies a high school graduation requirement and engaging young people with his Youth Advisory Committee. He currently sits on six committees: the Higher Education (chair), Arts, Accountability and Administrative Review, Business and Professions, Budget, and Transportation Committees. Rep. Medina has sponsored 239 bills this year on such topics as services for undocumented minors, occupational health and safety, and reducing the use of force by police, of which over 10 percent have successfully passed. He scores a lifetime 75 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Medina has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, Rep. Medina has not supported preventing dialysis companies from steering patients away from Medi-Cal, strengthening emissions-reporting requirements, establishing oil-spill contingency plans, reducing single-use packaging waste, allowing the sponsorship of public banks, forcing debt collectors to leave a final $1,724 in a bank account, and establishing an organization to raise and distribute affordable housing funds. His No vote on the dialysis bill comes after accepting a total of $14,500 from DaVita Inc., a private dialysis provider that commands 37 percent of the market.

Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Rep. Jose Medina taught in the Riverside public school system, serving as a school board member on the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education and completing three successful terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees. During his first term in the Assembly, Rep. Medina secured $15 million for the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine. In 2018, he secured $9.7 million to assist in the development of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture, and Industry. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of California, Riverside, and is a longtime supporter of Chicano history and art in the region.

Rep. Jose Medina has received endorsements from some progressive groups in the district. He has also been endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California, California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. He has also accepted money from Pfizer, DaVita Inc., and a number of fossil fuel companies and interests. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Ali Mazarei’s potential policies outweighs Medina’s moderate voting record and inaction on campaign financing. According to our analysis, Rep. Jose Medina is the strongest choice for representative leadership in office at this time, but we urge progressive voices in the district to make themselves heard and run for office in the future.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 65th District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Sharon Quirk-Silva

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to keep AD-65 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 65th Assembly District includes parts of Orange County. This is a historically red district that flipped blue when Sharon Quirk-Silva won in 2012. It went back to red in 2014, when she lost her incumbency, and then back to blue when she won again in 2016. The most recent election results show AD-65 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sharon Quirk-Silva led Republican challenger Cynthia Thacker by a margin of 15.4 percent. Quirk-Silva’s campaign has raised $529,123.99. Her campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted funds from all three groups. No FEC filings have been made for Thacker’s campaign, and she is endorsed by the Republican Party of Orange County and the California Republican Party.

About the Candidate

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva moved to Fullerton when she was two, attended Orange County public schools, earned her bachelor's degree from Fullerton College and UCLA, and her teaching credential from CSU Fullerton. Quirk-Silva defeated a Republican incumbent for this seat in 2012, but lost her bid for re-election in 2014 to Republican Young Kim. She ran again in 2016, defeated Kim, and has served in this seat since. According to campaign materials, Quirk-Silva is running to keep working on education, climate, and economic issues that affect the state of California.

In the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva authored a fee waiver bill that allows the homeless to receive an ID and a copy of their birth certificate without paying for them. Quirk Silva served as chair of the Assembly Jobs Committee and secured $23 million for small businesses. Quirk-Silva currently sits on the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Communications and Conveyance Committee. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva served on the Fullerton City Council starting in 2004 and was elected mayor in 2007.

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s priorities for AD-65 this year include increased funding for schools, expanding the economy, public safety, and expanding access to affordable health care. She currently sits on thirteen committees, including the standing committee on Housing and Community Development and the select committees on Foster Care and Student Debt. Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva has sponsored two bills about housing and homelessness this year. She scores 49 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Quirk-Silva generally votes progressive for bills that address California’s education system and climate change. That said, she has abstained from voting on policies that could help solve other issues, including police transparency.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Quirk-Silva worked as a teacher in the Fullerton School District. She is a longtime supporter of affordable housing, quality education, and access to physical and mental-health services.

Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. That said, she is also endorsed by police groups. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Thacker’s potential policies greatly outweighs Quirk-Silva’s moderate voting record and decisions regarding police accountability. Although we disagree with her relationships with the police, her district is vulnerable to flipping red. According to our analysis, Sharon Quirk-Silva is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Sharon Quirk-Silva

Re-elect State Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to keep AD-65 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 65th Assembly District includes parts of Orange County. This is a historically red district that flipped blue when Sharon Quirk-Silva won in 2012. It went back to red in 2014, when she lost her incumbency, and then back to blue when she won again in 2016. The most recent election results show AD-65 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sharon Quirk-Silva led Republican challenger Cynthia Thacker by a margin of 15.4 percent. Quirk-Silva’s campaign has raised $529,123.99. Her campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted funds from all three groups. No FEC filings have been made for Thacker’s campaign, and she is endorsed by the Republican Party of Orange County and the California Republican Party.

About the Candidate

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva moved to Fullerton when she was two, attended Orange County public schools, earned her bachelor's degree from Fullerton College and UCLA, and her teaching credential from CSU Fullerton. Quirk-Silva defeated a Republican incumbent for this seat in 2012, but lost her bid for re-election in 2014 to Republican Young Kim. She ran again in 2016, defeated Kim, and has served in this seat since. According to campaign materials, Quirk-Silva is running to keep working on education, climate, and economic issues that affect the state of California.

In the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva authored a fee waiver bill that allows the homeless to receive an ID and a copy of their birth certificate without paying for them. Quirk Silva served as chair of the Assembly Jobs Committee and secured $23 million for small businesses. Quirk-Silva currently sits on the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Communications and Conveyance Committee. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva served on the Fullerton City Council starting in 2004 and was elected mayor in 2007.

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s priorities for AD-65 this year include increased funding for schools, expanding the economy, public safety, and expanding access to affordable health care. She currently sits on thirteen committees, including the standing committee on Housing and Community Development and the select committees on Foster Care and Student Debt. Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva has sponsored two bills about housing and homelessness this year. She scores 49 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Quirk-Silva generally votes progressive for bills that address California’s education system and climate change. That said, she has abstained from voting on policies that could help solve other issues, including police transparency.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Quirk-Silva worked as a teacher in the Fullerton School District. She is a longtime supporter of affordable housing, quality education, and access to physical and mental-health services.

Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. That said, she is also endorsed by police groups. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Thacker’s potential policies greatly outweighs Quirk-Silva’s moderate voting record and decisions regarding police accountability. Although we disagree with her relationships with the police, her district is vulnerable to flipping red. According to our analysis, Sharon Quirk-Silva is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to keep AD-65 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 65th Assembly District includes parts of Orange County. This is a historically red district that flipped blue when Sharon Quirk-Silva won in 2012. It went back to red in 2014, when she lost her incumbency, and then back to blue when she won again in 2016. The most recent election results show AD-65 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sharon Quirk-Silva led Republican challenger Cynthia Thacker by a margin of 15.4 percent. Quirk-Silva’s campaign has raised $529,123.99. Her campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted funds from all three groups. No FEC filings have been made for Thacker’s campaign, and she is endorsed by the Republican Party of Orange County and the California Republican Party.

About the Candidate

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva moved to Fullerton when she was two, attended Orange County public schools, earned her bachelor's degree from Fullerton College and UCLA, and her teaching credential from CSU Fullerton. Quirk-Silva defeated a Republican incumbent for this seat in 2012, but lost her bid for re-election in 2014 to Republican Young Kim. She ran again in 2016, defeated Kim, and has served in this seat since. According to campaign materials, Quirk-Silva is running to keep working on education, climate, and economic issues that affect the state of California.

In the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva authored a fee waiver bill that allows the homeless to receive an ID and a copy of their birth certificate without paying for them. Quirk Silva served as chair of the Assembly Jobs Committee and secured $23 million for small businesses. Quirk-Silva currently sits on the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Communications and Conveyance Committee. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva served on the Fullerton City Council starting in 2004 and was elected mayor in 2007.

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s priorities for AD-65 this year include increased funding for schools, expanding the economy, public safety, and expanding access to affordable health care. She currently sits on thirteen committees, including the standing committee on Housing and Community Development and the select committees on Foster Care and Student Debt. Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva has sponsored two bills about housing and homelessness this year. She scores 49 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Quirk-Silva generally votes progressive for bills that address California’s education system and climate change. That said, she has abstained from voting on policies that could help solve other issues, including police transparency.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Quirk-Silva worked as a teacher in the Fullerton School District. She is a longtime supporter of affordable housing, quality education, and access to physical and mental-health services.

Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. That said, she is also endorsed by police groups. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Thacker’s potential policies greatly outweighs Quirk-Silva’s moderate voting record and decisions regarding police accountability. Although we disagree with her relationships with the police, her district is vulnerable to flipping red. According to our analysis, Sharon Quirk-Silva is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Sharon Quirk-Silva

Re-elect State Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to keep AD-65 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 65th Assembly District includes parts of Orange County. This is a historically red district that flipped blue when Sharon Quirk-Silva won in 2012. It went back to red in 2014, when she lost her incumbency, and then back to blue when she won again in 2016. The most recent election results show AD-65 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sharon Quirk-Silva led Republican challenger Cynthia Thacker by a margin of 15.4 percent. Quirk-Silva’s campaign has raised $529,123.99. Her campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted funds from all three groups. No FEC filings have been made for Thacker’s campaign, and she is endorsed by the Republican Party of Orange County and the California Republican Party.

About the Candidate

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva moved to Fullerton when she was two, attended Orange County public schools, earned her bachelor's degree from Fullerton College and UCLA, and her teaching credential from CSU Fullerton. Quirk-Silva defeated a Republican incumbent for this seat in 2012, but lost her bid for re-election in 2014 to Republican Young Kim. She ran again in 2016, defeated Kim, and has served in this seat since. According to campaign materials, Quirk-Silva is running to keep working on education, climate, and economic issues that affect the state of California.

In the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva authored a fee waiver bill that allows the homeless to receive an ID and a copy of their birth certificate without paying for them. Quirk Silva served as chair of the Assembly Jobs Committee and secured $23 million for small businesses. Quirk-Silva currently sits on the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Communications and Conveyance Committee. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva served on the Fullerton City Council starting in 2004 and was elected mayor in 2007.

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s priorities for AD-65 this year include increased funding for schools, expanding the economy, public safety, and expanding access to affordable health care. She currently sits on thirteen committees, including the standing committee on Housing and Community Development and the select committees on Foster Care and Student Debt. Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva has sponsored two bills about housing and homelessness this year. She scores 49 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Quirk-Silva generally votes progressive for bills that address California’s education system and climate change. That said, she has abstained from voting on policies that could help solve other issues, including police transparency.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Quirk-Silva worked as a teacher in the Fullerton School District. She is a longtime supporter of affordable housing, quality education, and access to physical and mental-health services.

Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. That said, she is also endorsed by police groups. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Thacker’s potential policies greatly outweighs Quirk-Silva’s moderate voting record and decisions regarding police accountability. Although we disagree with her relationships with the police, her district is vulnerable to flipping red. According to our analysis, Sharon Quirk-Silva is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, Close the Gap CA, Consumer Attorneys of California, Emily's List, California Democratic Party, California Teachers Association, Equality California, National Union of Healthcare Workers, United Domestic Workers

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/sharon-quirk-silva/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to keep AD-65 on the right track.

About the Position

About the District

California's 65th Assembly District includes parts of Orange County. This is a historically red district that flipped blue when Sharon Quirk-Silva won in 2012. It went back to red in 2014, when she lost her incumbency, and then back to blue when she won again in 2016. The most recent election results show AD-65 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sharon Quirk-Silva led Republican challenger Cynthia Thacker by a margin of 15.4 percent. Quirk-Silva’s campaign has raised $529,123.99. Her campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted funds from all three groups. No FEC filings have been made for Thacker’s campaign, and she is endorsed by the Republican Party of Orange County and the California Republican Party.

About the Candidate

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva moved to Fullerton when she was two, attended Orange County public schools, earned her bachelor's degree from Fullerton College and UCLA, and her teaching credential from CSU Fullerton. Quirk-Silva defeated a Republican incumbent for this seat in 2012, but lost her bid for re-election in 2014 to Republican Young Kim. She ran again in 2016, defeated Kim, and has served in this seat since. According to campaign materials, Quirk-Silva is running to keep working on education, climate, and economic issues that affect the state of California.

In the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva authored a fee waiver bill that allows the homeless to receive an ID and a copy of their birth certificate without paying for them. Quirk Silva served as chair of the Assembly Jobs Committee and secured $23 million for small businesses. Quirk-Silva currently sits on the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Communications and Conveyance Committee. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva served on the Fullerton City Council starting in 2004 and was elected mayor in 2007.

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s priorities for AD-65 this year include increased funding for schools, expanding the economy, public safety, and expanding access to affordable health care. She currently sits on thirteen committees, including the standing committee on Housing and Community Development and the select committees on Foster Care and Student Debt. Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva has sponsored two bills about housing and homelessness this year. She scores 49 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Quirk-Silva generally votes progressive for bills that address California’s education system and climate change. That said, she has abstained from voting on policies that could help solve other issues, including police transparency.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Quirk-Silva worked as a teacher in the Fullerton School District. She is a longtime supporter of affordable housing, quality education, and access to physical and mental-health services.

Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. That said, she is also endorsed by police groups. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Thacker’s potential policies greatly outweighs Quirk-Silva’s moderate voting record and decisions regarding police accountability. Although we disagree with her relationships with the police, her district is vulnerable to flipping red. According to our analysis, Sharon Quirk-Silva is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Sharon Quirk-Silva

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to keep AD-65 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a four-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 65th Assembly District includes parts of Orange County. This is a historically red district that flipped blue when Sharon Quirk-Silva won in 2012. It went back to red in 2014, when she lost her incumbency, and then back to blue when she won again in 2016. The most recent election results show AD-65 voted for Clinton for president in 2016 and Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sharon Quirk-Silva led Republican challenger Cynthia Thacker by a margin of 15.4 percent. Quirk-Silva’s campaign has raised $529,123.99. Her campaign has not committed to refusing corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money, and has accepted funds from all three groups. No FEC filings have been made for Thacker’s campaign, and she is endorsed by the Republican Party of Orange County and the California Republican Party.

About the Candidate

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva moved to Fullerton when she was two, attended Orange County public schools, earned her bachelor's degree from Fullerton College and UCLA, and her teaching credential from CSU Fullerton. Quirk-Silva defeated a Republican incumbent for this seat in 2012, but lost her bid for re-election in 2014 to Republican Young Kim. She ran again in 2016, defeated Kim, and has served in this seat since. According to campaign materials, Quirk-Silva is running to keep working on education, climate, and economic issues that affect the state of California.

In the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva authored a fee waiver bill that allows the homeless to receive an ID and a copy of their birth certificate without paying for them. Quirk Silva served as chair of the Assembly Jobs Committee and secured $23 million for small businesses. Quirk-Silva currently sits on the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Communications and Conveyance Committee. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva served on the Fullerton City Council starting in 2004 and was elected mayor in 2007.

Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva’s priorities for AD-65 this year include increased funding for schools, expanding the economy, public safety, and expanding access to affordable health care. She currently sits on thirteen committees, including the standing committee on Housing and Community Development and the select committees on Foster Care and Student Debt. Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva has sponsored two bills about housing and homelessness this year. She scores 49 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Quirk-Silva generally votes progressive for bills that address California’s education system and climate change. That said, she has abstained from voting on policies that could help solve other issues, including police transparency.

Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Quirk-Silva worked as a teacher in the Fullerton School District. She is a longtime supporter of affordable housing, quality education, and access to physical and mental-health services.

Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. That said, she is also endorsed by police groups. However, the threat of Republican challenger and strong Trump supporter Thacker’s potential policies greatly outweighs Quirk-Silva’s moderate voting record and decisions regarding police accountability. Although we disagree with her relationships with the police, her district is vulnerable to flipping red. According to our analysis, Sharon Quirk-Silva is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

State Assembly, 66th District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat
Al Muratsuchi

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi to keep AD-66 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 66th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and the cities of Gardena, Redondo Beach, and Torrance. The district is somewhat purple, and Democrats have typically held this district, although it flipped to red when Muratsuchi lost to his Republican challenger in 2014. The most recent election results show 60 percent of AD-66 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 59.3 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Muratsuchi led Republican challenger Arthur Schaper by a margin of 32.4 percent. Muratsuchi’s campaign has raised $344,833.35 and has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. His campaign has accepted funds from all three groups. Schaper’s campaign has raised much less than Muratsuchi’s--$1,861 in total, all from individual contributions. Schaper has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money.

About the Candidate

Rep. Muratsuchi, a former prosecutor and deputy attorney general with the California Department of Justice, has lived in Southern California for nearly 25 years. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2016. According to campaign materials, he is for re-election to bring good jobs and quality education to his district, as well as improve environmental protections and veteran services.

In the Assembly, Muratsuchi has advanced legislation to keep aerospace jobs in the state, increase funding for public education, oppose oil drilling throughout California’s coastlines, and to improve the services provided to homeless and disabled veterans. He currently sits on eight committees and chairs the select committee on Aerospace. Rep. Muratsuchi has co-sponsored two bills on gun violence prevention and consumer protection this year. He scores 64 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, he has a clear history of casting bad votes on criminal-justice reform measures.

Rep. Maratsuchi is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. However, the threat of right-wing challenger and strong Trump supporter Schaper’s potential policies greatly outweighs Muratsuchi’s moderate voting record and inaction on justice reform. According to our analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Al Muratsuchi

Re-elect State Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi to keep AD-66 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 66th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and the cities of Gardena, Redondo Beach, and Torrance. The district is somewhat purple, and Democrats have typically held this district, although it flipped to red when Muratsuchi lost to his Republican challenger in 2014. The most recent election results show 60 percent of AD-66 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 59.3 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Muratsuchi led Republican challenger Arthur Schaper by a margin of 32.4 percent. Muratsuchi’s campaign has raised $344,833.35 and has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. His campaign has accepted funds from all three groups. Schaper’s campaign has raised much less than Muratsuchi’s--$1,861 in total, all from individual contributions. Schaper has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money.

About the Candidate

Rep. Muratsuchi, a former prosecutor and deputy attorney general with the California Department of Justice, has lived in Southern California for nearly 25 years. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2016. According to campaign materials, he is for re-election to bring good jobs and quality education to his district, as well as improve environmental protections and veteran services.

In the Assembly, Muratsuchi has advanced legislation to keep aerospace jobs in the state, increase funding for public education, oppose oil drilling throughout California’s coastlines, and to improve the services provided to homeless and disabled veterans. He currently sits on eight committees and chairs the select committee on Aerospace. Rep. Muratsuchi has co-sponsored two bills on gun violence prevention and consumer protection this year. He scores 64 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, he has a clear history of casting bad votes on criminal-justice reform measures.

Rep. Maratsuchi is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. However, the threat of right-wing challenger and strong Trump supporter Schaper’s potential policies greatly outweighs Muratsuchi’s moderate voting record and inaction on justice reform. According to our analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Re-elect State Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi to keep AD-66 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 66th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and the cities of Gardena, Redondo Beach, and Torrance. The district is somewhat purple, and Democrats have typically held this district, although it flipped to red when Muratsuchi lost to his Republican challenger in 2014. The most recent election results show 60 percent of AD-66 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 59.3 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Muratsuchi led Republican challenger Arthur Schaper by a margin of 32.4 percent. Muratsuchi’s campaign has raised $344,833.35 and has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. His campaign has accepted funds from all three groups. Schaper’s campaign has raised much less than Muratsuchi’s--$1,861 in total, all from individual contributions. Schaper has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money.

About the Candidate

Rep. Muratsuchi, a former prosecutor and deputy attorney general with the California Department of Justice, has lived in Southern California for nearly 25 years. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2016. According to campaign materials, he is for re-election to bring good jobs and quality education to his district, as well as improve environmental protections and veteran services.

In the Assembly, Muratsuchi has advanced legislation to keep aerospace jobs in the state, increase funding for public education, oppose oil drilling throughout California’s coastlines, and to improve the services provided to homeless and disabled veterans. He currently sits on eight committees and chairs the select committee on Aerospace. Rep. Muratsuchi has co-sponsored two bills on gun violence prevention and consumer protection this year. He scores 64 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, he has a clear history of casting bad votes on criminal-justice reform measures.

Rep. Maratsuchi is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. However, the threat of right-wing challenger and strong Trump supporter Schaper’s potential policies greatly outweighs Muratsuchi’s moderate voting record and inaction on justice reform. According to our analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Al Muratsuchi

Re-elect State Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi to keep AD-66 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 66th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and the cities of Gardena, Redondo Beach, and Torrance. The district is somewhat purple, and Democrats have typically held this district, although it flipped to red when Muratsuchi lost to his Republican challenger in 2014. The most recent election results show 60 percent of AD-66 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 59.3 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Muratsuchi led Republican challenger Arthur Schaper by a margin of 32.4 percent. Muratsuchi’s campaign has raised $344,833.35 and has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. His campaign has accepted funds from all three groups. Schaper’s campaign has raised much less than Muratsuchi’s--$1,861 in total, all from individual contributions. Schaper has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money.

About the Candidate

Rep. Muratsuchi, a former prosecutor and deputy attorney general with the California Department of Justice, has lived in Southern California for nearly 25 years. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2016. According to campaign materials, he is for re-election to bring good jobs and quality education to his district, as well as improve environmental protections and veteran services.

In the Assembly, Muratsuchi has advanced legislation to keep aerospace jobs in the state, increase funding for public education, oppose oil drilling throughout California’s coastlines, and to improve the services provided to homeless and disabled veterans. He currently sits on eight committees and chairs the select committee on Aerospace. Rep. Muratsuchi has co-sponsored two bills on gun violence prevention and consumer protection this year. He scores 64 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, he has a clear history of casting bad votes on criminal-justice reform measures.

Rep. Maratsuchi is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. However, the threat of right-wing challenger and strong Trump supporter Schaper’s potential policies greatly outweighs Muratsuchi’s moderate voting record and inaction on justice reform. According to our analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Endorsed By: AFSCME State Council, California Federation of Teachers, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, California Democratic Party, California League of Conservation Voters, California Teachers Association, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, Equality California, NARAL Pro-Choice California, Sierra Club California

Courage Score: https://www.couragescore.org/people/al-muratsuchi/

Re-elect State Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi to keep AD-66 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 66th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and the cities of Gardena, Redondo Beach, and Torrance. The district is somewhat purple, and Democrats have typically held this district, although it flipped to red when Muratsuchi lost to his Republican challenger in 2014. The most recent election results show 60 percent of AD-66 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 59.3 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Muratsuchi led Republican challenger Arthur Schaper by a margin of 32.4 percent. Muratsuchi’s campaign has raised $344,833.35 and has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. His campaign has accepted funds from all three groups. Schaper’s campaign has raised much less than Muratsuchi’s--$1,861 in total, all from individual contributions. Schaper has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money.

About the Candidate

Rep. Muratsuchi, a former prosecutor and deputy attorney general with the California Department of Justice, has lived in Southern California for nearly 25 years. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2016. According to campaign materials, he is for re-election to bring good jobs and quality education to his district, as well as improve environmental protections and veteran services.

In the Assembly, Muratsuchi has advanced legislation to keep aerospace jobs in the state, increase funding for public education, oppose oil drilling throughout California’s coastlines, and to improve the services provided to homeless and disabled veterans. He currently sits on eight committees and chairs the select committee on Aerospace. Rep. Muratsuchi has co-sponsored two bills on gun violence prevention and consumer protection this year. He scores 64 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, he has a clear history of casting bad votes on criminal-justice reform measures.

Rep. Maratsuchi is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. However, the threat of right-wing challenger and strong Trump supporter Schaper’s potential policies greatly outweighs Muratsuchi’s moderate voting record and inaction on justice reform. According to our analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Al Muratsuchi

Website Endorsements
Re-elect State Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi to keep AD-66 on the right track.

About the Position

State Assembly Members form part of the California State Legislature, and work alongside the governor to establish laws and a state budget. They hold the power to pass bills that affect public policy, set state spending levels, raise and lower taxes, and uphold or override the governor’s vetoes. The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the State Senate and Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 61 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 17 seats. One seat is held by an Independent, and one seat is currently vacant.

About the District

California's 66th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles County and the cities of Gardena, Redondo Beach, and Torrance. The district is somewhat purple, and Democrats have typically held this district, although it flipped to red when Muratsuchi lost to his Republican challenger in 2014. The most recent election results show 60 percent of AD-66 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 59.3 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Muratsuchi led Republican challenger Arthur Schaper by a margin of 32.4 percent. Muratsuchi’s campaign has raised $344,833.35 and has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. His campaign has accepted funds from all three groups. Schaper’s campaign has raised much less than Muratsuchi’s--$1,861 in total, all from individual contributions. Schaper has also not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money.

About the Candidate

Rep. Muratsuchi, a former prosecutor and deputy attorney general with the California Department of Justice, has lived in Southern California for nearly 25 years. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2016. According to campaign materials, he is for re-election to bring good jobs and quality education to his district, as well as improve environmental protections and veteran services.

In the Assembly, Muratsuchi has advanced legislation to keep aerospace jobs in the state, increase funding for public education, oppose oil drilling throughout California’s coastlines, and to improve the services provided to homeless and disabled veterans. He currently sits on eight committees and chairs the select committee on Aerospace. Rep. Muratsuchi has co-sponsored two bills on gun violence prevention and consumer protection this year. He scores 64 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi has supported some progressive bills that made it to a vote. That said, he has a clear history of casting bad votes on criminal-justice reform measures.

Rep. Maratsuchi is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by police organizations. However, the threat of right-wing challenger and strong Trump supporter Schaper’s potential policies greatly outweighs Muratsuchi’s moderate voting record and inaction on justice reform. According to our analysis, Rep. Muratsuchi is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Congress

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below congressional districts on your ballot.

27th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

Democrat
Judy Chu

Website Endorsements
Re-elect Congressional Representative Judy Chu to keep CA-27 blue.

About the Position

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District

California's 27th Congressional District includes part of Los Angeles County. This seat has been reliably Democratic since 2001, and has voted for Democratic presidential and gubernatorial candidates in every election since 1996, with the exception of a narrow win by Gov. Schwarzenegger in 2006. Hillary Clinton won this district with 66 percent of the vote in 2016, and Gavin Newsom won with 65 percent of the vote in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Judy Chu led Republican challenger Johnny Nalbandian by a margin of 57.5 percent. Rep. Chu’s campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. She has received a total of nearly $800,000 in donations, including donations from Comcast Corporation, FedEx, Google NetPAC, and Lockheed Martin Corporation. Challenger Nalbandian has not taken any fundraising pledges, and has raised only $36,000. One third of his raised funds have been contributed from his own accounts.

About the Candidate

Rep. Judy Chu, a former member of the State Assembly, has lived in Monterey Park for over 30 years. According to campaign materials, Rep. Chu is running for re-election to continue fighting for her constituents through legislation related to social programs, education reform, and small-business support.

Rep. Chu’s priorities for CA-27 this year have included working to reverse the Trump administration’s Muslim ban, establishing increased environmental protections for the San Gabriel Mountain region, and supporting coronavirus relief for small businesses, immigrants, and working families. Rep. Chu serves on two committees: Small Business (ranks 7th), and Ways and Means (ranks 14th). This year, Rep. Chu has voted 99 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 96 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. In contrast to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Chu voted in favor of the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Implementation Act Trade Agreement, and in support of appropriations made to the Department of the Interior, the environment, and other related committees. Rep. Chu has sponsored 46 bills about mental-health care access, immigration protections, and educational equity this year. She has also proposed legislation to support minority-owned businesses that were left out of the COVID-19 relief legislation. Of those 46 bills, two have been referred to the Senate, and the remaining are in committee or referred to committee.

Rep.Chu is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district, including California League of Conservation Voters. She is also endorsed by several police organizations. However, the threat of Republican challenger Nalbandian’s potential policies greatly outweighs Rep. Chu’s relationship with police organizations. According to our analysis, Rep. Chu is the clear choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Judy Chu

Re-elect Congressional Representative Judy Chu to keep CA-27 blue.

About the Position

Re-elect Congressional Representative Judy Chu to keep CA-27 blue.

About the Position

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District

California's 27th Congressional District includes part of Los Angeles County. This seat has been reliably Democratic since 2001, and has voted for Democratic presidential and gubernatorial candidates in every election since 1996, with the exception of a narrow win by Gov. Schwarzenegger in 2006. Hillary Clinton won this district with 66 percent of the vote in 2016, and Gavin Newsom won with 65 percent of the vote in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Judy Chu led Republican challenger Johnny Nalbandian by a margin of 57.5 percent. Rep. Chu’s campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. She has received a total of nearly $800,000 in donations, including donations from Comcast Corporation, FedEx, Google NetPAC, and Lockheed Martin Corporation. Challenger Nalbandian has not taken any fundraising pledges, and has raised only $36,000. One third of his raised funds have been contributed from his own accounts.

About the Candidate

Rep. Judy Chu, a former member of the State Assembly, has lived in Monterey Park for over 30 years. According to campaign materials, Rep. Chu is running for re-election to continue fighting for her constituents through legislation related to social programs, education reform, and small-business support.

Rep. Chu’s priorities for CA-27 this year have included working to reverse the Trump administration’s Muslim ban, establishing increased environmental protections for the San Gabriel Mountain region, and supporting coronavirus relief for small businesses, immigrants, and working families. Rep. Chu serves on two committees: Small Business (ranks 7th), and Ways and Means (ranks 14th). This year, Rep. Chu has voted 99 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 96 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. In contrast to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Chu voted in favor of the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Implementation Act Trade Agreement, and in support of appropriations made to the Department of the Interior, the environment, and other related committees. Rep. Chu has sponsored 46 bills about mental-health care access, immigration protections, and educational equity this year. She has also proposed legislation to support minority-owned businesses that were left out of the COVID-19 relief legislation. Of those 46 bills, two have been referred to the Senate, and the remaining are in committee or referred to committee.

Rep.Chu is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district, including California League of Conservation Voters. She is also endorsed by several police organizations. However, the threat of Republican challenger Nalbandian’s potential policies greatly outweighs Rep. Chu’s relationship with police organizations. According to our analysis, Rep. Chu is the clear choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Judy Chu

Re-elect Congressional Representative Judy Chu to keep CA-27 blue.

About the Position

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Nurses Association, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, SEIU CA, United Farm Workers, Los Angeles County Democratic Party

Re-elect Congressional Representative Judy Chu to keep CA-27 blue.

About the Position

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District

California's 27th Congressional District includes part of Los Angeles County. This seat has been reliably Democratic since 2001, and has voted for Democratic presidential and gubernatorial candidates in every election since 1996, with the exception of a narrow win by Gov. Schwarzenegger in 2006. Hillary Clinton won this district with 66 percent of the vote in 2016, and Gavin Newsom won with 65 percent of the vote in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Judy Chu led Republican challenger Johnny Nalbandian by a margin of 57.5 percent. Rep. Chu’s campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. She has received a total of nearly $800,000 in donations, including donations from Comcast Corporation, FedEx, Google NetPAC, and Lockheed Martin Corporation. Challenger Nalbandian has not taken any fundraising pledges, and has raised only $36,000. One third of his raised funds have been contributed from his own accounts.

About the Candidate

Rep. Judy Chu, a former member of the State Assembly, has lived in Monterey Park for over 30 years. According to campaign materials, Rep. Chu is running for re-election to continue fighting for her constituents through legislation related to social programs, education reform, and small-business support.

Rep. Chu’s priorities for CA-27 this year have included working to reverse the Trump administration’s Muslim ban, establishing increased environmental protections for the San Gabriel Mountain region, and supporting coronavirus relief for small businesses, immigrants, and working families. Rep. Chu serves on two committees: Small Business (ranks 7th), and Ways and Means (ranks 14th). This year, Rep. Chu has voted 99 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 96 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. In contrast to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Chu voted in favor of the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Implementation Act Trade Agreement, and in support of appropriations made to the Department of the Interior, the environment, and other related committees. Rep. Chu has sponsored 46 bills about mental-health care access, immigration protections, and educational equity this year. She has also proposed legislation to support minority-owned businesses that were left out of the COVID-19 relief legislation. Of those 46 bills, two have been referred to the Senate, and the remaining are in committee or referred to committee.

Rep.Chu is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district, including California League of Conservation Voters. She is also endorsed by several police organizations. However, the threat of Republican challenger Nalbandian’s potential policies greatly outweighs Rep. Chu’s relationship with police organizations. According to our analysis, Rep. Chu is the clear choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Judy Chu

Website Endorsements
Re-elect Congressional Representative Judy Chu to keep CA-27 blue.

About the Position

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District

California's 27th Congressional District includes part of Los Angeles County. This seat has been reliably Democratic since 2001, and has voted for Democratic presidential and gubernatorial candidates in every election since 1996, with the exception of a narrow win by Gov. Schwarzenegger in 2006. Hillary Clinton won this district with 66 percent of the vote in 2016, and Gavin Newsom won with 65 percent of the vote in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Judy Chu led Republican challenger Johnny Nalbandian by a margin of 57.5 percent. Rep. Chu’s campaign has not pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. She has received a total of nearly $800,000 in donations, including donations from Comcast Corporation, FedEx, Google NetPAC, and Lockheed Martin Corporation. Challenger Nalbandian has not taken any fundraising pledges, and has raised only $36,000. One third of his raised funds have been contributed from his own accounts.

About the Candidate

Rep. Judy Chu, a former member of the State Assembly, has lived in Monterey Park for over 30 years. According to campaign materials, Rep. Chu is running for re-election to continue fighting for her constituents through legislation related to social programs, education reform, and small-business support.

Rep. Chu’s priorities for CA-27 this year have included working to reverse the Trump administration’s Muslim ban, establishing increased environmental protections for the San Gabriel Mountain region, and supporting coronavirus relief for small businesses, immigrants, and working families. Rep. Chu serves on two committees: Small Business (ranks 7th), and Ways and Means (ranks 14th). This year, Rep. Chu has voted 99 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 96 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. In contrast to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Chu voted in favor of the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Implementation Act Trade Agreement, and in support of appropriations made to the Department of the Interior, the environment, and other related committees. Rep. Chu has sponsored 46 bills about mental-health care access, immigration protections, and educational equity this year. She has also proposed legislation to support minority-owned businesses that were left out of the COVID-19 relief legislation. Of those 46 bills, two have been referred to the Senate, and the remaining are in committee or referred to committee.

Rep.Chu is endorsed by some progressive groups in the district, including California League of Conservation Voters. She is also endorsed by several police organizations. However, the threat of Republican challenger Nalbandian’s potential policies greatly outweighs Rep. Chu’s relationship with police organizations. According to our analysis, Rep. Chu is the clear choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, California Nurses Association, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, SEIU CA, United Farm Workers, Los Angeles County Democratic Party

28th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

Democrat
Adam Schiff

Website
Re-elect Congressional Representative Adam Schiff to keep CA-28 on the right side of history.

About the Position
The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District
California’s 28th Congressional District includes part of Los Angeles County. Democrats have held this district since 2002, and have also voted for every Democratic presidential and gubernatorial candidate since 1998.

About the Race
In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Representative Adam Schiff led Republican challenger Eric Early by a margin of 47 percent. While Schiff’s campaign is funded by the fossil fuel industry and corporate PACs, his Republican opponent, Eric Early, has several problematic funders, including California Freedom and Prosperity Fund PAC, which regularly misleads the public about progressive leaders across the country. Schiff’s voting record, however, still shows that he has the progressive values and experience to meet this moment in history.

About the Candidate
Rep. Schiff currently lives in Burbank. According to campaign materials, Rep. Schiff is running for re-election to support American-made products, promote renewable energy, fund affordable education initiatives, support the Equality Act for the LGBTQ+ community, end Citizens United through a constitutional amendment, fix our immigration system, secure our nation and our democracy, and pass gun violence prevention legislation.

Rep. Schiff’s priorities for CA-28 this year have included battling COVID-19 through relief legislation and safety regulation, getting funding for an early earthquake-warning system, rental assistance and affordable housing, space exploration, earth science research, and next steps for a “cap park” across Highway 101 in Hollywood, just to name a few. He currently sits on several committees but is now the top Democrat, or Ranking Member, on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, where he skillfully led the impeachment inquiry into the current President’s abuse of power. This year, Rep. Schiff has voted 100 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 95 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, mainly differing on the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Rep. Schiff has sponsored 26 bills around COVID-19, corruption, and other national security items this year, some of which are now on the floor of the Senate. That said, he has cast unfavorable votes on issues pertaining to military spending and the use of military force.

Rep. Schiff is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. As the only Democratic candidate running in a strong Democratic district, Representative Adam Schiff is the clear choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Adam Schiff

Re-elect Congressional Representative Adam Schiff to keep CA-28 on the right side of history.

About the Position

Re-elect Congressional Representative Adam Schiff to keep CA-28 on the right side of history.

About the Position
The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District
California’s 28th Congressional District includes part of Los Angeles County. Democrats have held this district since 2002, and have also voted for every Democratic presidential and gubernatorial candidate since 1998.

About the Race
In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Representative Adam Schiff led Republican challenger Eric Early by a margin of 47 percent. While Schiff’s campaign is funded by the fossil fuel industry and corporate PACs, his Republican opponent, Eric Early, has several problematic funders, including California Freedom and Prosperity Fund PAC, which regularly misleads the public about progressive leaders across the country. Schiff’s voting record, however, still shows that he has the progressive values and experience to meet this moment in history.

About the Candidate
Rep. Schiff currently lives in Burbank. According to campaign materials, Rep. Schiff is running for re-election to support American-made products, promote renewable energy, fund affordable education initiatives, support the Equality Act for the LGBTQ+ community, end Citizens United through a constitutional amendment, fix our immigration system, secure our nation and our democracy, and pass gun violence prevention legislation.

Rep. Schiff’s priorities for CA-28 this year have included battling COVID-19 through relief legislation and safety regulation, getting funding for an early earthquake-warning system, rental assistance and affordable housing, space exploration, earth science research, and next steps for a “cap park” across Highway 101 in Hollywood, just to name a few. He currently sits on several committees but is now the top Democrat, or Ranking Member, on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, where he skillfully led the impeachment inquiry into the current President’s abuse of power. This year, Rep. Schiff has voted 100 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 95 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, mainly differing on the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Rep. Schiff has sponsored 26 bills around COVID-19, corruption, and other national security items this year, some of which are now on the floor of the Senate. That said, he has cast unfavorable votes on issues pertaining to military spending and the use of military force.

Rep. Schiff is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. As the only Democratic candidate running in a strong Democratic district, Representative Adam Schiff is the clear choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Adam Schiff

Re-elect Congressional Representative Adam Schiff to keep CA-28 on the right side of history.

About the Position

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, SEIU CA, Los Angeles County Democratic Party

Re-elect Congressional Representative Adam Schiff to keep CA-28 on the right side of history.

About the Position
The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District
California’s 28th Congressional District includes part of Los Angeles County. Democrats have held this district since 2002, and have also voted for every Democratic presidential and gubernatorial candidate since 1998.

About the Race
In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Representative Adam Schiff led Republican challenger Eric Early by a margin of 47 percent. While Schiff’s campaign is funded by the fossil fuel industry and corporate PACs, his Republican opponent, Eric Early, has several problematic funders, including California Freedom and Prosperity Fund PAC, which regularly misleads the public about progressive leaders across the country. Schiff’s voting record, however, still shows that he has the progressive values and experience to meet this moment in history.

About the Candidate
Rep. Schiff currently lives in Burbank. According to campaign materials, Rep. Schiff is running for re-election to support American-made products, promote renewable energy, fund affordable education initiatives, support the Equality Act for the LGBTQ+ community, end Citizens United through a constitutional amendment, fix our immigration system, secure our nation and our democracy, and pass gun violence prevention legislation.

Rep. Schiff’s priorities for CA-28 this year have included battling COVID-19 through relief legislation and safety regulation, getting funding for an early earthquake-warning system, rental assistance and affordable housing, space exploration, earth science research, and next steps for a “cap park” across Highway 101 in Hollywood, just to name a few. He currently sits on several committees but is now the top Democrat, or Ranking Member, on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, where he skillfully led the impeachment inquiry into the current President’s abuse of power. This year, Rep. Schiff has voted 100 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 95 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, mainly differing on the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Rep. Schiff has sponsored 26 bills around COVID-19, corruption, and other national security items this year, some of which are now on the floor of the Senate. That said, he has cast unfavorable votes on issues pertaining to military spending and the use of military force.

Rep. Schiff is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. As the only Democratic candidate running in a strong Democratic district, Representative Adam Schiff is the clear choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Democrat
Adam Schiff

Website
Re-elect Congressional Representative Adam Schiff to keep CA-28 on the right side of history.

About the Position
The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District
California’s 28th Congressional District includes part of Los Angeles County. Democrats have held this district since 2002, and have also voted for every Democratic presidential and gubernatorial candidate since 1998.

About the Race
In the primary, Democrat Incumbent Representative Adam Schiff led Republican challenger Eric Early by a margin of 47 percent. While Schiff’s campaign is funded by the fossil fuel industry and corporate PACs, his Republican opponent, Eric Early, has several problematic funders, including California Freedom and Prosperity Fund PAC, which regularly misleads the public about progressive leaders across the country. Schiff’s voting record, however, still shows that he has the progressive values and experience to meet this moment in history.

About the Candidate
Rep. Schiff currently lives in Burbank. According to campaign materials, Rep. Schiff is running for re-election to support American-made products, promote renewable energy, fund affordable education initiatives, support the Equality Act for the LGBTQ+ community, end Citizens United through a constitutional amendment, fix our immigration system, secure our nation and our democracy, and pass gun violence prevention legislation.

Rep. Schiff’s priorities for CA-28 this year have included battling COVID-19 through relief legislation and safety regulation, getting funding for an early earthquake-warning system, rental assistance and affordable housing, space exploration, earth science research, and next steps for a “cap park” across Highway 101 in Hollywood, just to name a few. He currently sits on several committees but is now the top Democrat, or Ranking Member, on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, where he skillfully led the impeachment inquiry into the current President’s abuse of power. This year, Rep. Schiff has voted 100 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 95 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, mainly differing on the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Rep. Schiff has sponsored 26 bills around COVID-19, corruption, and other national security items this year, some of which are now on the floor of the Senate. That said, he has cast unfavorable votes on issues pertaining to military spending and the use of military force.

Rep. Schiff is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. As the only Democratic candidate running in a strong Democratic district, Representative Adam Schiff is the clear choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, SEIU CA, Los Angeles County Democratic Party

29th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

Democrat
Angélica María Dueñas

Website Endorsements
Challenger Angélica María Dueñas promises to push CA-29 to prioritize the interests of local residents who have been left out of policymaking, particularly in supporting the working class, and issues around civil rights and social justice.

Angélica María Dueñas is from the San Fernando Valley. According to campaign materials she is running for this seat because of her personal connection to the economic challenges faced by working-class communities, and her commitment to progressive representation in government.

Dueñas is a human resources professional and social-justice advocate, which she does because of her interest in supporting the working class and her long-held belief in the power of working-class representation in government. She has been involved with the Sun Valley Neighborhood Council Board, and served four terms in leadership roles with the organization. During the 2016 election, she was a strong supporter of the progressive message and ideals represented by Senator Bernie Sanders, and she served as a delegate for his campaign.

Dueñas is endorsed by several progressive groups in the district, including local divisions of Sunrise Movement, Progressive Democrats of America, and Our Revolution. While Dueñas has less name recognition and political power than the incumbent, she would bring a more progressive platform to the seat and has made principled funding pledges during her campaign. According to our analysis, Dueñas is a strong choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Angélica María Dueñas

Challenger Angélica María Dueñas promises to push CA-29 to prioritize the interests of local residents who have been left out of policymaking, particularly in supporting the working class, and issues around civil rights and social justice.

Challenger Angélica María Dueñas promises to push CA-29 to prioritize the interests of local residents who have been left out of policymaking, particularly in supporting the working class, and issues around civil rights and social justice.

Angélica María Dueñas is from the San Fernando Valley. According to campaign materials she is running for this seat because of her personal connection to the economic challenges faced by working-class communities, and her commitment to progressive representation in government.

Dueñas is a human resources professional and social-justice advocate, which she does because of her interest in supporting the working class and her long-held belief in the power of working-class representation in government. She has been involved with the Sun Valley Neighborhood Council Board, and served four terms in leadership roles with the organization. During the 2016 election, she was a strong supporter of the progressive message and ideals represented by Senator Bernie Sanders, and she served as a delegate for his campaign.

Dueñas is endorsed by several progressive groups in the district, including local divisions of Sunrise Movement, Progressive Democrats of America, and Our Revolution. While Dueñas has less name recognition and political power than the incumbent, she would bring a more progressive platform to the seat and has made principled funding pledges during her campaign. According to our analysis, Dueñas is a strong choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Angélica María Dueñas

Challenger Angélica María Dueñas promises to push CA-29 to prioritize the interests of local residents who have been left out of policymaking, particularly in supporting the working class, and issues around civil rights and social justice.

Endorsed By: California Progressive Alliance, Ground Game LA, Our Revolution, Sunrise Movement

Democrat
Angélica María Dueñas

Website Endorsements
Challenger Angélica María Dueñas promises to push CA-29 to prioritize the interests of local residents who have been left out of policymaking, particularly in supporting the working class, and issues around civil rights and social justice.

Angélica María Dueñas is from the San Fernando Valley. According to campaign materials she is running for this seat because of her personal connection to the economic challenges faced by working-class communities, and her commitment to progressive representation in government.

Dueñas is a human resources professional and social-justice advocate, which she does because of her interest in supporting the working class and her long-held belief in the power of working-class representation in government. She has been involved with the Sun Valley Neighborhood Council Board, and served four terms in leadership roles with the organization. During the 2016 election, she was a strong supporter of the progressive message and ideals represented by Senator Bernie Sanders, and she served as a delegate for his campaign.

Dueñas is endorsed by several progressive groups in the district, including local divisions of Sunrise Movement, Progressive Democrats of America, and Our Revolution. While Dueñas has less name recognition and political power than the incumbent, she would bring a more progressive platform to the seat and has made principled funding pledges during her campaign. According to our analysis, Dueñas is a strong choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Progressive Alliance, Ground Game LA, Our Revolution, Sunrise Movement

Democrat
Tony Cardenas

Website
Incumbent Tony Cardenas promises to keep prioritizing CA-29’s established interests, particularly in health-care research and building the middle class.

Rep. Cardenas, a former member of the State Legislature and the Los Angeles City Council, is from Pacoima, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Cardenas is running for re-election to use his consensus-driven approach to rebuild the middle class and inspire American innovation.

Rep. Cardenas’ priorities for CA-29 this year have included civil rights improvements, juvenile-justice reform, and supporting health-care research. He currently sits on one committee: Energy and Commerce (ranks 20th). This year, Rep. Cardenas has voted 99 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 95 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. In contrast to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Cardenas agreed on the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, and on making appropriations to the Department of Defense and Department of State. Rep. Cardenas has sponsored 33 bills about health and health research, criminal justice, and commemorating Latinx heritage this year. Of these bills, one has been received in the Senate, two are on the floor of the House, and all remaining are either in committee or referred to committee.

Rep. Cardenas is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California. However, Rep. Cardenas’ connections and demonstrated record of consensus building in Congress make him a strong choice for representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Tony Cardenas

Incumbent Tony Cardenas promises to keep prioritizing CA-29’s established interests, particularly in health-care research and building the middle class.

Incumbent Tony Cardenas promises to keep prioritizing CA-29’s established interests, particularly in health-care research and building the middle class.

Rep. Cardenas, a former member of the State Legislature and the Los Angeles City Council, is from Pacoima, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Cardenas is running for re-election to use his consensus-driven approach to rebuild the middle class and inspire American innovation.

Rep. Cardenas’ priorities for CA-29 this year have included civil rights improvements, juvenile-justice reform, and supporting health-care research. He currently sits on one committee: Energy and Commerce (ranks 20th). This year, Rep. Cardenas has voted 99 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 95 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. In contrast to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Cardenas agreed on the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, and on making appropriations to the Department of Defense and Department of State. Rep. Cardenas has sponsored 33 bills about health and health research, criminal justice, and commemorating Latinx heritage this year. Of these bills, one has been received in the Senate, two are on the floor of the House, and all remaining are either in committee or referred to committee.

Rep. Cardenas is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California. However, Rep. Cardenas’ connections and demonstrated record of consensus building in Congress make him a strong choice for representative leadership in office.

Tony Cardenas

Incumbent Tony Cardenas promises to keep prioritizing CA-29’s established interests, particularly in health-care research and building the middle class.

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, SEIU CA, Los Angeles County Democratic Party

Democrat
Tony Cardenas

Website
Incumbent Tony Cardenas promises to keep prioritizing CA-29’s established interests, particularly in health-care research and building the middle class.

Rep. Cardenas, a former member of the State Legislature and the Los Angeles City Council, is from Pacoima, CA. According to campaign materials, Rep. Cardenas is running for re-election to use his consensus-driven approach to rebuild the middle class and inspire American innovation.

Rep. Cardenas’ priorities for CA-29 this year have included civil rights improvements, juvenile-justice reform, and supporting health-care research. He currently sits on one committee: Energy and Commerce (ranks 20th). This year, Rep. Cardenas has voted 99 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 95 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. In contrast to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Cardenas agreed on the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, and on making appropriations to the Department of Defense and Department of State. Rep. Cardenas has sponsored 33 bills about health and health research, criminal justice, and commemorating Latinx heritage this year. Of these bills, one has been received in the Senate, two are on the floor of the House, and all remaining are either in committee or referred to committee.

Rep. Cardenas is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California. However, Rep. Cardenas’ connections and demonstrated record of consensus building in Congress make him a strong choice for representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: AFSCME 3299, AFSCME State Council, California Labor Federation, SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, California Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California League of Conservation Voters, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, SEIU CA, Los Angeles County Democratic Party

30th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

Democrat
Brad Sherman

Website
Re-elect Congressional Representative Brad Sherman to keep CA-30 on the right track.

About the Position

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District

California's 30th Congressional District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district, and the incumbent Rep. Sherman has held this seat since 2012. The most recent election results show 69.1 percent of AD-30 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 69.9 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sherman led Republican challenger Mark Reed by a margin of 35.4 percent. Neither campaign has pledged to refuse corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or police money. Sherman’s campaign is funded by banks, fossil fuel money, and Pro-Israel America PAC. Reed’s campaign has not made any FEC filings.

About the Candidate

Representative Brad Sherman was born and raised in Southern California and lives in Sherman Oaks, a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley. He is the incumbent and is currently serving his 12th term in Congress. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue providing strong progressive leadership in Congress for the labor movement, human rights, animal rights, and the environment.

As a congressional representative, Rep. Sherman has provided leadership in areas that include fiscal policy and foreign relations, and was among the first legislators to call for impeachment against the president in 2017 on the grounds of obstruction of justice. Prior to his election to Congress, he served on the California State Board of Equalization from 1991 to 1996. It is, however, important to note that Rep. Sherman has been called out by former aides for enabling a generally toxic workplace atmosphere, although he has not been accused of any specific abusive acts in or outside the workplace. In addition, Rep. Sherman spoke in 2017 at an event hosted by MeK (Mojahedin-e Khalq), an Iranian group with ties to Rudy Giuliani and John Bolton, and which advocates for U.S. sanctions on and bombing of Iran. His support of the organization incited criticism among anti-war groups and his constituents, many of whom are Iranian-American.

Rep. Sherman’s priorities for CA-30 this year have included fixing the economy, standing up to Wall Street, and protecting Social Security and Medicare. He currently sits on three committees and is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Financial Services Committee. This year, Rep. Sherman has voted 100 percent of the time with Nancy Pelosi and 95 percent of the time with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. While Rep. Ocasio-Cortez voted against the National Defense Authorization Act, Sherman voted for it. Rep. Sherman has co-sponsored three bills about protecting the USPS, increasing accountability of police misconduct, and limiting American engagement in hostilities in or against Iran this year, of which all have successfully passed.

Rep. Sherman is endorsed by many progressive groups in the district. He is also endorsed by Democrats for Israel Los Angeles, which pressured the California Democratic Party to vote down an amendment to the party platform that would have called for the right of return for Palestinians and resulted in the elimination of references to a two-state solution. However, the threat of the potential policies of his Republican challenger, Reed, who is pro-life, denies climate change, and opposes same-sex marriage, outweighs Sherman’s issues described here. According to our analysis, Rep. Sherman is the strongest choice for equitable and representative leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Brad Sherman

Re-elect Congressional Representative Brad Sherman to keep CA-30 on the right track.

About the Position

Re-elect Congressional Representative Brad Sherman to keep CA-30 on the right track.

About the Position

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives. There is no term limit for this position.

About the District

California's 30th Congressional District includes parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Democrats typically hold this district, and the incumbent Rep. Sherman has held this seat since 2012. The most recent election results show 69.1 percent of AD-30 voted for Clinton for president in 2016, and 69.9 percent of the district voted for Newsom for governor in 2018.

About the Race

In the primary, Democrat incumbent Representative Sherm

No Recommendation

About the Candidate

About the Candidate

No Recommendation

About the Candidate

Elect Vice President Joseph Biden as President of the United States to get America back on track.

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Elect Vice President Joseph Biden as President of the United States to get America back on track.

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Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

Elect Vice President Joseph Biden as President of the United States to get America back on track.

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Elect Vice President Joseph Biden as President of the United States to get America back on track.

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Elect Senator Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States to get America back on track.

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Elect Senator Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States to get America back on track.

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Kamala Harris

Elect Senator Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States to get America back on track.

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Elect Senator Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States to get America back on track.

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City District Races

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

Nithya Raman

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

Elect City Council Member Nithya Raman to push Los Angeles in the right direction.

Based on our analysis, there is no progressive candidate to recommend for your vote in this race.

About the Position

About the District

About the Race

About the Candidates (presented in alphabetical order, with no implied preference)

About the Candidate

About the Candidate

No Recommendation

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No Recommendation

About the Candidate

Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

About the District

About the Candidate

Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

About the District

About the Candidate

Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

About the Position

About the District

About the Candidate

Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

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About the District

About the Candidate

Charné Tunson

Elect Charné Tunson to make the Los Angeles Community College District Board more reflective of its highly diverse student population.

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About the District