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  • VOTE YES

    Vote YES On Prop 13, School and College Facilities Bond

  • This proposition would provide $9 billion for desperately needed renovations to public preschools and grade schools throughout the state, and $6 billion for construction to community colleges, the Cal State system, and the UC system. This will allow the state of California to use tax revenue to pay for improvements that local communities cannot afford. 

    The funding would come from bonds the state would pay back over 35 years, totaling an estimated $26 billion, which includes $15 billion in principal and $11 billion in interest. This investment is well worth the costs. It takes money, after all, to ensure that students -- especially those in districts that can’t afford major capital improvement projects -- do not have to learn in dangerous environments. 

    The vast majority of Democrats in the state legislature support it, as does Gov. Newsom, and the only major opposition is a group called the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. This is the group famous for destroying California’s school funding system in 1978 through another proposition, ironically one that was also dubbed Prop 13. The group spends most of its time lobbying to reduce tax rates. It has never shown any interest in supporting California’s children, at least if that means wealthy individuals or giant corporations would pay their fair share in taxes.

    Critics of the measure have pointed out that the ballot measure’s language includes a provision that frees new multi-family developments around subway stops and bus stations from school impact fees. This provision will make it easier for developers to build apartment buildings within a half-mile of public transit but could also drive up the cost of new housing and take funds away from school districts across the state. Despite this provision, the measure is still supported by most education groups in the state, who believe the overall funding allocation to schools outweighs the impact of reduced funding to school districts located near transit hubs. 2020’s Prop 13 is worth the investment since it means children will soon be able to attend school in buildings that are retrofitted to withstand earthquakes and no longer have lead in their water. 

    We strongly recommend a YES vote on Prop 13.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    This proposition would provide $9 billion for desperately needed renovations to public preschools and grade schools throughout the state, and $6 billion for construction to community colleges, the Cal State system, and the UC system. This will allow the state of California to use tax revenue to pay for improvements that local communities cannot afford. 

    The funding would come from bonds the state would pay back over 35 years, totaling an estimated $26 billion, which includes $15 billion in principal and $11 billion in interest. This investment is well worth the costs. It takes money, after all, to ensure that students -- especially those in districts that can’t afford major capital improvement projects -- do not have to learn in dangerous environments. 

    The vast majority of Democrats in the state legislature support it, as does Gov. Newsom, and the only major opposition is a group called the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. This is the group famous for destroying California’s school funding system in 1978 through another proposition, ironically one that was also dubbed Prop 13. The group spends most of its time lobbying to reduce tax rates. It has never shown any interest in supporting California’s children, at least if that means wealthy individuals or giant corporations would pay their fair share in taxes.

    Critics of the measure have pointed out that the ballot measure’s language includes a provision that frees new multi-family developments around subway stops and bus stations from school impact fees. This provision will make it easier for developers to build apartment buildings within a half-mile of public transit but could also drive up the cost of new housing and take funds away from school districts across the state. Despite this provision, the measure is still supported by most education groups in the state, who believe the overall funding allocation to schools outweighs the impact of reduced funding to school districts located near transit hubs. 2020’s Prop 13 is worth the investment since it means children will soon be able to attend school in buildings that are retrofitted to withstand earthquakes and no longer have lead in their water. 

    We strongly recommend a YES vote on Prop 13.

    This proposition would provide $9 billion for desperately needed renovations to public preschools and grade schools throughout the state, and $6 billion for construction to community colleges, the Cal State system, and the UC system. This will allow the state of California to use tax revenue to pay for improvements that local communities cannot afford. 

    The funding would come from bonds the state would pay back over 35 years, totaling an estimated $26 billion, which includes $15 billion in principal and $11 billion in interest. This investment is well worth the costs. It takes money, after all, to ensure that students -- especially those in districts that can’t afford major capital improvement projects -- do not have to learn in dangerous environments. 

    The vast majority of Democrats in the state legislature support it, as does Gov. Newsom, and the only major opposition is a group called the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. This is the group famous for destroying California’s school funding system in 1978 through another proposition, ironically one that was also dubbed Prop 13. The group spends most of its time lobbying to reduce tax rates. It has never shown any interest in supporting California’s children, at least if that means wealthy individuals or giant corporations would pay their fair share in taxes.

    Critics of the measure have pointed out that the ballot measure’s language includes a provision that frees new multi-family developments around subway stops and bus stations from school impact fees. This provision will make it easier for developers to build apartment buildings within a half-mile of public transit but could also drive up the cost of new housing and take funds away from school districts across the state. Despite this provision, the measure is still supported by most education groups in the state, who believe the overall funding allocation to schools outweighs the impact of reduced funding to school districts located near transit hubs. 2020’s Prop 13 is worth the investment since it means children will soon be able to attend school in buildings that are retrofitted to withstand earthquakes and no longer have lead in their water. 

    We strongly recommend a YES vote on Prop 13.

    CA Prop 13

    This proposition would provide $9 billion for desperately needed renovations to public preschools and grade schools throughout the state, and $6 billion for construction to community colleges, the Cal State system, and the UC system.

City District Races

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

  • Non-Partisan

    Paul Krekorian

    Builds Power
  • Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Krekorian was born and raised in San Fernando Valley. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2010. He is the first Armenian-American elected to public office in the city of Los Angeles. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue his work to improve the economic foundation, educational outcomes, and public-safety standards for Stockton residents. 

    On the City Council, Councilmember Krekorian serves as chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, vice-chair of the Housing Committee, and sits on the Energy, Climate Change and Environmental Justice Committee among others. Prior to joining the Los Angeles City Council, he served for three years on the Burbank Board of Education and represented the 43rd district from 2007-2010 in the California State Assembly.

    Councilmember Krekorian is being challenged by Ayinde Jones and Rudy Melendez. Councilmember Krekorian is the strongest choice because of his track record of public service and strong relationships in the district. 

    According to our analysis, Councilmember Krekorian is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Paul Krekorian

    Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Krekorian was born and raised in San Fernando Valley. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2010. He is the first Armenian-American elected to public office in the city of Los Angeles.

    Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Krekorian was born and raised in San Fernando Valley. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2010. He is the first Armenian-American elected to public office in the city of Los Angeles. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue his work to improve the economic foundation, educational outcomes, and public-safety standards for Stockton residents. 

    On the City Council, Councilmember Krekorian serves as chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, vice-chair of the Housing Committee, and sits on the Energy, Climate Change and Environmental Justice Committee among others. Prior to joining the Los Angeles City Council, he served for three years on the Burbank Board of Education and represented the 43rd district from 2007-2010 in the California State Assembly.

    Councilmember Krekorian is being challenged by Ayinde Jones and Rudy Melendez. Councilmember Krekorian is the strongest choice because of his track record of public service and strong relationships in the district. 

    According to our analysis, Councilmember Krekorian is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Paul Krekorian

    Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Krekorian was born and raised in San Fernando Valley. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2010. He is the first Armenian-American elected to public office in the city of Los Angeles.

  • Builds Power
    Builds Progress
    Builds Representation

  • Nithya Raman lives in the Silverlake neighborhood of the city 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 a trained urban planner who 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 running against David Ryu, the incumbent who has failed to fulfill supportive housing commitments in the district. Other candidates include Sarah Levy. Raman is the strongest progressive 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.

    According to our analysis, Nithya Raman is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Nithya Raman


    Nithya Raman lives in the Silverlake neighborhood of the city 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.


    Nithya Raman lives in the Silverlake neighborhood of the city 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 a trained urban planner who 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 running against David Ryu, the incumbent who has failed to fulfill supportive housing commitments in the district. Other candidates include Sarah Levy. Raman is the strongest progressive 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.

    According to our analysis, Nithya Raman is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Nithya Raman


    Nithya Raman lives in the Silverlake neighborhood of the city 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.

  • Builds Power
    Builds Progress
    Builds Representation

  • Los Angeles City Councilmember Nury Martinez was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, the daughter of immigrants from Mexico. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue to fight for the families of the City of Los Angeles and the Sixth Council District in the Northeast San Fernando Valley.

    Councilmember Martinez has served on the Los Angeles City Council since 2013. Her current agenda is bolstered by her new role as City Council President, which gives her decision making power on when new proposals are raised at council meetings and who sits on committees. Since January, she has articulated priorities including launching programs to help working families, support for foster youth to get employed, and a ban on building permits for private detention centers, including facilities that would hold unaccompanied immigrant minors. When it comes to housing and homelessness, Councilmember Martinez has over-delivered on her 2018 commitment to build supportive housing units in District 6.

    Councilmember Martinez is the first Latina City Council President in the City Council's 170-year history. While recent City Council decisions have tended to be unanimous and presented as a united front, Councilmember Martinez has suggested that she is more open to open and transparent debate. Prior to her election to the LA City Council, she has a long history in public service, on the L.A. Unified School District Board from 2009 to 2013 and before that, on the City of San Fernando Council from 2003 to 2009.

    Martinez is being challenged by Benito "Benny" Bernal and Bill Haller. Martinez is the strongest progressive choice because of her track record in representing the needs and interests of the residents in her district and her skillful leadership that has won the support of her colleagues on the council.

    According to our analysis, Councilmember Nury Martinez is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05


    Los Angeles City Councilmember Nury Martinez was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, the daughter of immigrants from Mexico. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue to fight for the families of the City of Los Angeles and the Sixth Council District in the Northeast San Fernando Valley.

    Councilmember Martinez has served on the Los Angeles City Council since 2013. Her current agenda is bolstered by her new role as City Council President, which gives her decision making power on when new proposals are raised at council meetings and who sits on committees. Since January, she has articulated priorities including launching programs to help working families, support for foster youth to get employed, and a ban on building permits for private detention centers, including facilities that would hold unaccompanied immigrant minors. When it comes to housing and homelessness, Councilmember Martinez has over-delivered on her 2018 commitment to build supportive housing units in District 6.

    Councilmember Martinez is the first Latina City Council President in the City Council's 170-year history. While recent City Council decisions have tended to be unanimous and presented as a united front, Councilmember Martinez has suggested that she is more open to open and transparent debate. Prior to her election to the LA City Council, she has a long history in public service, on the L.A. Unified School District Board from 2009 to 2013 and before that, on the City of San Fernando Council from 2003 to 2009.

    Martinez is being challenged by Benito "Benny" Bernal and Bill Haller. Martinez is the strongest progressive choice because of her track record in representing the needs and interests of the residents in her district and her skillful leadership that has won the support of her colleagues on the council.

    According to our analysis, Councilmember Nury Martinez is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

  • Builds Power
    Builds Progress
    Builds Representation
  • Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson was born and raised in South Los Angeles. He is the incumbent, having first been elected to represent District 8 in 2015. According to his official website, Councilmember Harris-Dawson’s priorities in office are to increase government responsiveness, develop economic opportunities, create equitable housing and transportation, and improve public safety. 

    Councilmember Harris-Dawson’s approach to serving his district is influenced by his background as a community organizer. A primary priority is ensuring that community residents have open channels to contact him and his staff to voice any need or concern. His office launched a campaign to encourage residents to use MyLA311 to request the services needed in the community, which has resulted in a nearly threefold increase in calls over the past three years and increased responsiveness and quality of service from City service providers for the district. When it comes to housing and homelessness, Councilmember Harris-Dawson has over-delivered on his 2018 commitment to build supportive housing units in District 8.

    Prior to joining the Los Angeles City Council, Councilmember Harris-Dawson worked at the nonprofit Community Coalition, renowned for its groundbreaking work in bringing together community residents to build safer neighborhoods. Original founder Karen Bass selected Harris-Dawson to replace her as head of the organization when she left to run for office, and, under Harris-Dawson, the organization saw a doubling of its budget and the purchase and renovation of a new building headquarters. 

    Councilmember Harris-Dawson is running unopposed. Councilmember Harris-Dawson is a strong progressive leader because of his active engagement with community residents, his track record of strong financial management, and his keen understanding of the needs and priorities of his district. 

    According to our analysis, Councilmember Harris-Dawson is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Marqueece Harris-Dawson

    Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson was born and raised in South Los Angeles. He is the incumbent, having first been elected to represent District 8 in 2015.

    Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson was born and raised in South Los Angeles. He is the incumbent, having first been elected to represent District 8 in 2015. According to his official website, Councilmember Harris-Dawson’s priorities in office are to increase government responsiveness, develop economic opportunities, create equitable housing and transportation, and improve public safety. 

    Councilmember Harris-Dawson’s approach to serving his district is influenced by his background as a community organizer. A primary priority is ensuring that community residents have open channels to contact him and his staff to voice any need or concern. His office launched a campaign to encourage residents to use MyLA311 to request the services needed in the community, which has resulted in a nearly threefold increase in calls over the past three years and increased responsiveness and quality of service from City service providers for the district. When it comes to housing and homelessness, Councilmember Harris-Dawson has over-delivered on his 2018 commitment to build supportive housing units in District 8.

    Prior to joining the Los Angeles City Council, Councilmember Harris-Dawson worked at the nonprofit Community Coalition, renowned for its groundbreaking work in bringing together community residents to build safer neighborhoods. Original founder Karen Bass selected Harris-Dawson to replace her as head of the organization when she left to run for office, and, under Harris-Dawson, the organization saw a doubling of its budget and the purchase and renovation of a new building headquarters. 

    Councilmember Harris-Dawson is running unopposed. Councilmember Harris-Dawson is a strong progressive leader because of his active engagement with community residents, his track record of strong financial management, and his keen understanding of the needs and priorities of his district. 

    According to our analysis, Councilmember Harris-Dawson is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Marqueece Harris-Dawson

    Los Angeles City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson was born and raised in South Los Angeles. He is the incumbent, having first been elected to represent District 8 in 2015.

  • Builds Power
    Builds Progress
    Builds Representation
  • Aura Vasquez was born and raised in Colombia before moving to the United States with her family. She worked nights and weekends as an undocumented student to put herself through college. According to campaign materials, she is running to represent District 10 on the City Council to be a bold leader who will focus on creating a more sustainable and equitable future for Los Angeles. 

    Vasquez has a deep background in community organizing and public service. She worked with the city of Los Angeles and the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign to make L.A. coal-free by 2025 and helped establish the Feed & Tariff Initiative, the largest rooftop solar program in the country. Based on her work in environmental justice, Vasquez was appointed by Mayor Garcetti to the Board of Commissioners for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. Vasquez was also a member of the Wilshire Center Koreatown Neighborhood Council where she was the only non-Korean American to serve on the board. Vasquez, who identifies as Afro-Latina, also brings accomplishments in supporting students experiencing poverty and institutionalized racism to avoid dropping out of school in New York and fighting against the targeting of immigrants driving without a license in Orange County. 

    Vasquez’s policy platform is informed by her organizing and advocacy experiences in Los Angeles. Her priorities include helping transition Los Angeles to 100% renewable energy, protecting the health of families by ending neighborhood oil drilling and reducing pollution, and making city services more responsive to residents. She also supports progressive economic solutions like tuition-free community college and a public bank that can inject investments back into neighborhoods. 

    Vasquez is running for an open seat, as incumbent Councilmember Herb Wesson has served the maximum terms for the position. Other candidates include Channing Martinez, Melvin Snell, Grace Yoo, and Mark Ridley-Thomas. Notably, Mark Ridley-Thomas, who is currently on the LA County Board of Supervisors, has also termed out, and he and incumbent Wesson are running for each other's seats to maintain their hold on power. Ridley-Thomas is a longtime elected official who has been repeatedly investigated for misuse of campaign and taxpayer funds. 

    Nearly 20 percent of Vasquez’s campaign funds come from donations of $100 or less, which far exceeds that of any other candidate in the race. In a crowded field of progressives, Vasquez is the strongest choice because of her track record in successfully advocating for progressive policy changes that reduce barriers and improve lives for many communities inclusively.


     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Aura Vasquez

    Aura Vasquez was born and raised in Colombia before moving to the United States with her family. She worked nights and weekends as an undocumented student to put herself through college.

    Aura Vasquez was born and raised in Colombia before moving to the United States with her family. She worked nights and weekends as an undocumented student to put herself through college. According to campaign materials, she is running to represent District 10 on the City Council to be a bold leader who will focus on creating a more sustainable and equitable future for Los Angeles. 

    Vasquez has a deep background in community organizing and public service. She worked with the city of Los Angeles and the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign to make L.A. coal-free by 2025 and helped establish the Feed & Tariff Initiative, the largest rooftop solar program in the country. Based on her work in environmental justice, Vasquez was appointed by Mayor Garcetti to the Board of Commissioners for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. Vasquez was also a member of the Wilshire Center Koreatown Neighborhood Council where she was the only non-Korean American to serve on the board. Vasquez, who identifies as Afro-Latina, also brings accomplishments in supporting students experiencing poverty and institutionalized racism to avoid dropping out of school in New York and fighting against the targeting of immigrants driving without a license in Orange County. 

    Vasquez’s policy platform is informed by her organizing and advocacy experiences in Los Angeles. Her priorities include helping transition Los Angeles to 100% renewable energy, protecting the health of families by ending neighborhood oil drilling and reducing pollution, and making city services more responsive to residents. She also supports progressive economic solutions like tuition-free community college and a public bank that can inject investments back into neighborhoods. 

    Vasquez is running for an open seat, as incumbent Councilmember Herb Wesson has served the maximum terms for the position. Other candidates include Channing Martinez, Melvin Snell, Grace Yoo, and Mark Ridley-Thomas. Notably, Mark Ridley-Thomas, who is currently on the LA County Board of Supervisors, has also termed out, and he and incumbent Wesson are running for each other's seats to maintain their hold on power. Ridley-Thomas is a longtime elected official who has been repeatedly investigated for misuse of campaign and taxpayer funds. 

    Nearly 20 percent of Vasquez’s campaign funds come from donations of $100 or less, which far exceeds that of any other candidate in the race. In a crowded field of progressives, Vasquez is the strongest choice because of her track record in successfully advocating for progressive policy changes that reduce barriers and improve lives for many communities inclusively.


     

    Aura Vasquez

    Aura Vasquez was born and raised in Colombia before moving to the United States with her family. She worked nights and weekends as an undocumented student to put herself through college.

  • Loraine Lundquist was raised by a career army soldier and a middle school math teacher, living all over the country before settling in Northridge nine years ago. According to campaign materials, she is running to represent District 12 on the City Council to tackle the challenges of the district and the city as a whole. 

    Loraine is a neighborhood council member, environmental activist, and astrophysicist. Currently, she is a Faculty Associate at the Institute for Sustainability at California State University, Northridge where she runs a program to provide science and sustainability education to local K-12 schools. She also serves on the advisory panel for LADWP long-range planning, and has testified before the California State Senate and Assembly. Lundquist served as the co-chair of the homelessness committee of Northridge East Neighborhood Council and was a founding member of the West Valley Neighborhood Alliance on Homelessness. 

    Lundquist’s policy platform centers on taking action on homelessness, holding the DWP accountable, and resisting special interests. Lundquist says she voted for local measures to raise taxes to pay for housing and services to help ease homelessness and wants to use that money to build more homeless housing and shelters. She also wants comprehensive reform of the LA transit system that will balance the needs of commuters with the needs of local communities, and more investment in local water infrastructure. 

    Lundquist is running against John S. Lee, the incumbent who has failed to fulfill supportive housing commitments in the district, and whose campaign has received funds from the fossil fuel industry. Lundquist lost to Lee, who is a Republican and was the chief of staff to the previous councilmember, in a special election held last year. This election presents an opportunity to elect a progressive champion to serve the district. Lundquist is the strongest progressive choice because of her commitment, expertise, and strong endorsements from progressive organizations and leaders. 

    According to our analysis, Loraine Lundquist is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

     

     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Loraine Lundquist

    Loraine Lundquist was raised by a career army soldier and a middle school math teacher, living all over the country before settling in Northridge nine years ago.

    Loraine Lundquist was raised by a career army soldier and a middle school math teacher, living all over the country before settling in Northridge nine years ago. According to campaign materials, she is running to represent District 12 on the City Council to tackle the challenges of the district and the city as a whole. 

    Loraine is a neighborhood council member, environmental activist, and astrophysicist. Currently, she is a Faculty Associate at the Institute for Sustainability at California State University, Northridge where she runs a program to provide science and sustainability education to local K-12 schools. She also serves on the advisory panel for LADWP long-range planning, and has testified before the California State Senate and Assembly. Lundquist served as the co-chair of the homelessness committee of Northridge East Neighborhood Council and was a founding member of the West Valley Neighborhood Alliance on Homelessness. 

    Lundquist’s policy platform centers on taking action on homelessness, holding the DWP accountable, and resisting special interests. Lundquist says she voted for local measures to raise taxes to pay for housing and services to help ease homelessness and wants to use that money to build more homeless housing and shelters. She also wants comprehensive reform of the LA transit system that will balance the needs of commuters with the needs of local communities, and more investment in local water infrastructure. 

    Lundquist is running against John S. Lee, the incumbent who has failed to fulfill supportive housing commitments in the district, and whose campaign has received funds from the fossil fuel industry. Lundquist lost to Lee, who is a Republican and was the chief of staff to the previous councilmember, in a special election held last year. This election presents an opportunity to elect a progressive champion to serve the district. Lundquist is the strongest progressive choice because of her commitment, expertise, and strong endorsements from progressive organizations and leaders. 

    According to our analysis, Loraine Lundquist is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

     

     

    Loraine Lundquist

    Loraine Lundquist was raised by a career army soldier and a middle school math teacher, living all over the country before settling in Northridge nine years ago.

  • Builds Power
    Builds Progress
    Builds Representation
  • Kevin de León was born in Los Angeles and was the first in his family to graduate from high school and college. A former state Assemblymember and Senator, he also served as President pro tempore of the California State Senate from 2014 to 2018. According to campaign materials, he is running to represent the 14th District on the City Council to advance policies to reduce homelessness, improve clean air and water, and make sure that Los Angeles is a safe place to live, work, and play. 

    During the years he was in the California Assembly and Senate, de León represented all or a portion of district 14. According to public reports, he successfully secured funding for parks, environmental cleanup initiatives and housing for homeless Angelenos in that time. As President of the Senate, de León has a historic set of progressive accomplishments from his time in office, including millions for the revitalization of the Los Angeles River, toxic waste clean up, and funding for more than a dozen new parks. As part of this effort, he authored Proposition 68, to keep drinking water clean and open new parks throughout the state. And as the author of Proposition 2, he was able to successfully launch an ambitious program to provide permanent supportive housing for Californians experiencing homelessness statewide. Notably, de León authored SB54, California’s Sanctuary Law, which prevents state and local law enforcement agencies from using their resources on behalf of federal immigration enforcement agencies, including ICE. 

    de León’s policy platform focuses on building homes for Angelenos experiencing homelessness, keeping the air clean, and reducing traffic and commute times. He also has a focus on quality education, fair treatment of teachers, and ensuring that Los Angeles is a safe place for families to live, work, and play.

    Kevin de León is running against Mónica García, John Jimenez, Cyndi Otteson, and Raquel Zamora. de León stands out as the strongest progressive choice because of his remarkable track record as an elected official serving the residents of California and his progressive ideals which have led to significant progressive legislative reforms that have improved the lives of Californians across the state. 

    According to our analysis, Kevin de León is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Kevin de León

    Kevin de León was born in Los Angeles and was the first in his family to graduate from high school and college. A former state Assemblymember and Senator, he also served as President pro tempore of the California State Senate from 2014 to 2018.

    Kevin de León was born in Los Angeles and was the first in his family to graduate from high school and college. A former state Assemblymember and Senator, he also served as President pro tempore of the California State Senate from 2014 to 2018. According to campaign materials, he is running to represent the 14th District on the City Council to advance policies to reduce homelessness, improve clean air and water, and make sure that Los Angeles is a safe place to live, work, and play. 

    During the years he was in the California Assembly and Senate, de León represented all or a portion of district 14. According to public reports, he successfully secured funding for parks, environmental cleanup initiatives and housing for homeless Angelenos in that time. As President of the Senate, de León has a historic set of progressive accomplishments from his time in office, including millions for the revitalization of the Los Angeles River, toxic waste clean up, and funding for more than a dozen new parks. As part of this effort, he authored Proposition 68, to keep drinking water clean and open new parks throughout the state. And as the author of Proposition 2, he was able to successfully launch an ambitious program to provide permanent supportive housing for Californians experiencing homelessness statewide. Notably, de León authored SB54, California’s Sanctuary Law, which prevents state and local law enforcement agencies from using their resources on behalf of federal immigration enforcement agencies, including ICE. 

    de León’s policy platform focuses on building homes for Angelenos experiencing homelessness, keeping the air clean, and reducing traffic and commute times. He also has a focus on quality education, fair treatment of teachers, and ensuring that Los Angeles is a safe place for families to live, work, and play.

    Kevin de León is running against Mónica García, John Jimenez, Cyndi Otteson, and Raquel Zamora. de León stands out as the strongest progressive choice because of his remarkable track record as an elected official serving the residents of California and his progressive ideals which have led to significant progressive legislative reforms that have improved the lives of Californians across the state. 

    According to our analysis, Kevin de León is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
     

    Kevin de León

    Kevin de León was born in Los Angeles and was the first in his family to graduate from high school and college. A former state Assemblymember and Senator, he also served as President pro tempore of the California State Senate from 2014 to 2018.

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

  • Dr. George McKenna is from New Orleans. His is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to the LAUSD School Board to continue to create a system of education that promotes positive change through emphasizing justice, equal opportunities, and cultivating non-violent learning spaces.

    As Vice President of the LAUSD Board of Education, Dr. McKenna has implemented reforms to that aim to boost inclusive learning environments and improve student achievement. Prior to his election to the School Board, Dr. McKenna received a PhD in Education and has worked as a teacher, principal, and superintendent where developed a reputation for his innovative education solutions that decreased violence in inner-city schools, addressed low-achievement, increased community engagement and college enrollment. He has also authored legislation that allows parents to receive time off of work so that they are able to attend students’ activities.

    Dr. McKenna is running unopposed and is the best progressive choice because of his track record of fighting for students and teachers, which he has received wide national recognition from Time magazine to The Oprah Winfrey Show, as well as a movie documenting his accomplishments and educational approaches titled “The George McKenna Story.”

    According to our analysis, Dr. McKenna is a strong choice for progressive leadership in office.

     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Dr. George J. McKenna

    Dr. George McKenna is from New Orleans. His is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014.

    Dr. George McKenna is from New Orleans. His is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to the LAUSD School Board to continue to create a system of education that promotes positive change through emphasizing justice, equal opportunities, and cultivating non-violent learning spaces.

    As Vice President of the LAUSD Board of Education, Dr. McKenna has implemented reforms to that aim to boost inclusive learning environments and improve student achievement. Prior to his election to the School Board, Dr. McKenna received a PhD in Education and has worked as a teacher, principal, and superintendent where developed a reputation for his innovative education solutions that decreased violence in inner-city schools, addressed low-achievement, increased community engagement and college enrollment. He has also authored legislation that allows parents to receive time off of work so that they are able to attend students’ activities.

    Dr. McKenna is running unopposed and is the best progressive choice because of his track record of fighting for students and teachers, which he has received wide national recognition from Time magazine to The Oprah Winfrey Show, as well as a movie documenting his accomplishments and educational approaches titled “The George McKenna Story.”

    According to our analysis, Dr. McKenna is a strong choice for progressive leadership in office.

     

    Dr. George J. McKenna

    Dr. George McKenna is from New Orleans. His is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2014.

  • Scott Schmerelson is a career educator with over 30 years of experience with LAUSD. He is the School Board District 3 incumbent, having served in this position since 2015. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to reduce class size, support and improve public schools, ensure classrooms and teachers have the resources they require while maintaining a responsible budget, and to make certain that schools are led by individuals who reflect the needs of the communities they serve.

    On the School Board, Schmerelson has been an outspoken supporter of teachers and their demands, as well as a leading voice to reduce class size so that students have the attention required for an effective learning environment and quality education. Prior to Schmerelson’s election to the School Board, he worked as a teacher, school counselor, assistant principal, and principal where he accomplished increasing test scores and boosting the morale of students, teachers, and parents.

    Schmerelson is running against Marilyn Koziatek and Elizabeth Bartels-Badger. Schmerelson is the best progressive choice because of his career-long dedication to improving education throughout LAUSD and his track record of fighting to make sure that children have access to the quality education they deserve.

    According to our analysis, Schmerelson is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Scott Mark Schmerelson

    Scott Schmerelson is a career educator with over 30 years of experience with LAUSD. He is the School Board District 3 incumbent, having served in this position since 2015.

    Scott Schmerelson is a career educator with over 30 years of experience with LAUSD. He is the School Board District 3 incumbent, having served in this position since 2015. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to reduce class size, support and improve public schools, ensure classrooms and teachers have the resources they require while maintaining a responsible budget, and to make certain that schools are led by individuals who reflect the needs of the communities they serve.

    On the School Board, Schmerelson has been an outspoken supporter of teachers and their demands, as well as a leading voice to reduce class size so that students have the attention required for an effective learning environment and quality education. Prior to Schmerelson’s election to the School Board, he worked as a teacher, school counselor, assistant principal, and principal where he accomplished increasing test scores and boosting the morale of students, teachers, and parents.

    Schmerelson is running against Marilyn Koziatek and Elizabeth Bartels-Badger. Schmerelson is the best progressive choice because of his career-long dedication to improving education throughout LAUSD and his track record of fighting to make sure that children have access to the quality education they deserve.

    According to our analysis, Schmerelson is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

     

    Scott Mark Schmerelson

    Scott Schmerelson is a career educator with over 30 years of experience with LAUSD. He is the School Board District 3 incumbent, having served in this position since 2015.

  • Jackie Goldberg is from Los Angeles and has resided in Echo Park, CA, for nearly 40 years. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2019. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue to be the School Board’s progressive voice and ensure that students interests always come first.

    On the School Board, she has worked to restore integrity and leadership to her seat following the corruption chargers from the previous occupant. In addition, she’s worked to reduce class size, establish a productive and reasonable budget, bring the community together to raise students’ achievement levels, improve schools learning conditions, increase the resources available to students and teachers, as well as defend LAUSD schools from ongoing federal attacks from the current administration. Golberg has also worked as a teacher, community activist, Ethics Deputy and Children’s Services Deputy, served on the Los Angeles City Council, California State Assembly, as well as served on the LAUSD school board from 1983 to 1991. Through these positions, Golberg has created a dual language education program, authored the first citywide ordnance on a living wage, instituted protections for LA renters, increased funding for LAUSD, authored the first citywide and statewide domestic partner legislation, and is a co-founder of LACER Afterschool Program which helps nearly 4,000 students annually in the Los Angeles area.

    Goldberg is running against Chistina Martinez Duran. Goldberg is the best progressive choice because of her career-long reputation of supporting students and underserved communities throughout the Los Angeles area.

    According to our analysis, Goldberg is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

     

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Jackie Goldberg

    Jackie Goldberg is from Los Angeles and has resided in Echo Park, CA, for nearly 40 years. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2019.

    Jackie Goldberg is from Los Angeles and has resided in Echo Park, CA, for nearly 40 years. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2019. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue to be the School Board’s progressive voice and ensure that students interests always come first.

    On the School Board, she has worked to restore integrity and leadership to her seat following the corruption chargers from the previous occupant. In addition, she’s worked to reduce class size, establish a productive and reasonable budget, bring the community together to raise students’ achievement levels, improve schools learning conditions, increase the resources available to students and teachers, as well as defend LAUSD schools from ongoing federal attacks from the current administration. Golberg has also worked as a teacher, community activist, Ethics Deputy and Children’s Services Deputy, served on the Los Angeles City Council, California State Assembly, as well as served on the LAUSD school board from 1983 to 1991. Through these positions, Golberg has created a dual language education program, authored the first citywide ordnance on a living wage, instituted protections for LA renters, increased funding for LAUSD, authored the first citywide and statewide domestic partner legislation, and is a co-founder of LACER Afterschool Program which helps nearly 4,000 students annually in the Los Angeles area.

    Goldberg is running against Chistina Martinez Duran. Goldberg is the best progressive choice because of her career-long reputation of supporting students and underserved communities throughout the Los Angeles area.

    According to our analysis, Goldberg is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

     

    Jackie Goldberg

    Jackie Goldberg is from Los Angeles and has resided in Echo Park, CA, for nearly 40 years. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2019.

  • Patricia Castellanos is from Carson, CA, and currently resides in San Pedro, CA. According to campaign materials, she is running for School Board to bring her knowledge of building coalitions and alliances to the LAUSD to enact progressive education policies.

    Castellanos is the Workforce Deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, where she develops and implements economic policies that create job opportunities for members of her community. Prior to becoming a Workforce Deputy, she worked as the Director of Policy Training and Education for Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education, held an appointment as Port Commission by Mayor Eric Garcetti, and was Deputy Director for the L.A. Alliance for a New Economy. Furthermore, Castellanos led the Coalition for Clean and Safe Ports, where she secured a historic agreement to reduce emissions, and was also a co-founder of Reclaim Our Schools L.A., where she successfully created a coalition of community members to rally support for quality public education.

    Castellanos is running against Mike Lansing, Tanya Ortiz Franklin, Silke M. Bradford, and Lydia A. Gutierrez. Castellanos is the progressive choice because of her track record of activism, service, and support to underserved and disadvantaged communities throughout the Los Angeles area. 

    According to our analysis, Castellanos is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

    Last updated: 2023-04-05

    Patricia Castellanos

    Patricia Castellanos is from Carson, CA, and currently resides in San Pedro, CA. According to campaign materials, she is running for School Board to bring her knowledge of building coalitions and alliances to the LAUSD to enact progressive education policies.

    Patricia Castellanos is from Carson, CA, and currently resides in San Pedro, CA. According to campaign materials, she is running for School Board to bring her knowledge of building coalitions and alliances to the LAUSD to enact progressive education policies.

    Castellanos is the Workforce Deputy for L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, where she develops and implements economic policies that create job opportunities for members of her community. Prior to becoming a Workforce Deputy, she worked as the Director of Policy Training and Education for Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education, held an appointment as Port Commission by Mayor Eric Garcetti, and was Deputy Director for the L.A. Alliance for a New Economy. Furthermore, Castellanos led the Coalition for Clean and Safe Ports, where she secured a historic agreement to reduce emissions, and was also a co-founder of Reclaim Our Schools L.A., where she successfully created a coalition of community members to rally support for quality public education.

    Castellanos is running against Mike Lansing, Tanya Ortiz Franklin, Silke M. Bradford, and Lydia A. Gutierrez. Castellanos is the progressive choice because of her track record of activism, service, and support to underserved and disadvantaged communities throughout the Los Angeles area. 

    According to our analysis, Castellanos is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

    Patricia Castellanos

    Patricia Castellanos is from Carson, CA, and currently resides in San Pedro, CA. According to campaign materials, she is running for School Board to bring her knowledge of building coalitions and alliances to the LAUSD to enact progressive education policies.