Los Angeles County

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.
 

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.
 

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.
 

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.
 

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.

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.

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.
 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

Abigail Medina currently resides in San Bernardino County. According to campaign materials, she is running for State Senate to improve educational opportunities for her district and to be a voice for historically marginalized communities. 

Medina serves as the Board President of the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) and Executive Director of Inland Region Equality Network (IREN), where she works to improve youth educational opportunities and elevate disadvantaged communities. While sitting on the school board, Medina has helped improve SBCUSD’s graduation rate from 70 percent, in 2013, to 90 percent, in 2018, and as ED of IREN, Medina has advanced initiatives in the Inland region to empower the LGBTQ+ community. Medina has also worked for the California Association for the Gifted, Congregation Organized for Prophetic Engagement (COPE), Health Advocates, and the District African American Council.

Medina is running against Kris Goodfellow (D), Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R), Cristina Puraci (R), and Lloyd White (R) for this open seat. According to recent election results, it's rare that Democrats win this seat. Medina stands out as the progressive choice because of her proven track record of being a community advocate and her ability to solve the issues faced by her community. 

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

State Senator Anthony Portantino is from Long Branch, NJ. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2016. According to campaign materials, he is running for reelection to continue to represent the needs of the foothills community in the State Legislature.

As a State Senator, Portantino has advanced bills to address public health issues, increase access to higher education, and improve senior citizens’ services. Prior to his election to the State Senate, Portantino served on the La Cañada Flintridge City Council, as Mayor of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Advisory Committee, and as President of the League of California Cities Mayors and Councilmembers Department.

As Senate Appropriations Chair, Portantino took actions that resulted in various progressive bills being tabled. Even though we don’t agree with all of Portantino's actions as Appropriations Chair, his position of power in the State Senate, his support of inclusive education and health policies make him a strong choice in this race.

Portantino is running uncontested for reelection. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Portantino has often shown courage advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.
 

Senator Henry Stern is a sixth-generation Californian and native of this district. He is the incumbent, having served in the State Senate since 2017. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue to be a voice for common sense policy that uplifts families and neighborhoods through community-driven, local policy solutions.

In the State Senate, Senator Stern has pushed for community-based resilience solutions that protect families and has authored legislation to empower communities to take a local approach to fight human trafficking. He currently chairs the Senate Elections Committee. Prior to his election to the State Senate, he worked with businesses to construct clean energy projects, co-founded a technology incubator, and taught civics classes.

Senator Stern is being challenged by Houman Salem (R). Based on our Courage Score analysis, Senator Stern has consistently shown courage advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Joy Silver is from Pennsylvania and has lived in Palm Springs since 2007. According to campaign materials she is running for State Senate because she was motivated after the 2016 Presidential election to use her experience in the healthcare and housing industries to fight for equity in her community.

Silver helped found Courageous Resistance of Palm Springs, a grassroots organization that was established to push back against the Trump administration’s immigration policies and their efforts to ease gun violence prevention legislation across the country. Throughout her career, she has worked to improve healthcare access, and to increase funding for affordable housing. Silver has emphasized sustainable growth and environmental protections, and has spoken out against the gas tax repeal effort. Under this platform, Silver came within 3% of flipping State Senate District 28 in the 2018 election. She lost the race to the incumbent, but was endorsed by Courage Campaign in her bid for the seat. Since that time the incumbent has accepted a position with Trump’s Department of Labor, prompting this special election.

Joy Silver is running against Elizabeth Romero (D), John Schwab (R), and Melissa Melendez (R) in this open race. According to recent election results, it's rare that Democrats win this seat, but Silver lost only narrowly in 2018. Silver stands out as the progressive choice because of her diverse track record of working for healthcare reform, social justice, and affordable housing.

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

State Senator Lena Gonzalez is from Los Angeles and now resides in Long Beach, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2019. According to campaign materials, she is running for State Senate to be a bold leader that represents the diverse needs of her district.

As a State Senator, Gonzalez has advanced policies that aim to create an inclusive economy, protect the environment, and build a strong future by providing youth with STEM opportunities. Gonzalez currently sits on the Senate Health Committee, Senate Judiciary Committee and the Joint Legislative Audit Committee. Prior to her election to the State Senate, she served on the Long Beach City Council and worked in the civic engagement investing division at Microsoft.

Gonzalez is running unopposed. She has a lifetime score of 100 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Gonzalez has consistently shown great courage advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

According to our analysis, Gonzalez is likely to provide very strong progressive leadership in office.

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, civil rights, and enhancing public safety. Bradford currently serves as Chair of the Labor and Industrial Relations Committee and sits on the Public Safety, Governmental Organization, Appropriations, as well as the Energy, Utilities and Communications Committees. Prior to his election to the State Senate, he served in the Gardena City Council and the State Assembly.

Senator Bradford is being challenged by Anthony Perry (AI). Based on our Courage Score analysis, Bradford has consistently shown great courage advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Assemblymember Luz Maria Rivas is from Northeast San Fernando Valley and returned to Los Angeles after completing her Masters in Education at Harvard University. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2018. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election because of her belief that every Californian should have a pathway to economic empowerment, independence, and self-efficacy.

In the Assembly, Rivas has worked on legislation to address California’s homeless student crisis, to ensure postsecondary schools cannot refuse transcripts because of a student’s debt, and has authored the Share Our Values Film Tax, which would give tax credits to companies that decide to film in California instead of a state that have enacted anti-abortion legislation. Prior to serving in the assembly, Assemblymember Rivas was an Electrical Engineer and an educator, and strongly believes that an education in a STEM field can create opportunity and empower all people, particularly girls and women. She founded a non-profit, DIY Girls, which teaches engineering and design skills, and was also appointed to the Los Angeles Board of Public Works in 2016.

Assemblymember Rivas is running against Ricardo Benitez (R). Rivas has a lifetime score of 95 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting record. Based on this analysis, Assemblymember Rivas has consistently shown great courage and advocated for the needs of constituents while facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians. She has demonstrated her progressive values in her commitment to equity, education, and supporting marginalized populations in her community.

According to our analysis, Assemblymember Rivas is a strong choice for progressive leadership in office.
 

Assemblymember James Ramos has lived on the San Manuel Indian Reservation in San Bernardino all his life and was the first Native American to be elected to the Assembly. He is the incumbent, having won the seat in 2018. According to campaign materials, he’s seeking re-election to continue making gains in economic development, homelessness, education, and public safety in the Inland Empire.

In the State Assembly, Ramos’ Early Suicide Prevention Bill (AB 1767) became law in November 2019. The bill expands the school district’s suicide prevention policies to include kindergarten and grade 1- 6. Ramos also authored two bills to address financial inequity: the Fair Access to Credit Bill, which would cap interest rates of payday loans, and the Small Business Tax Relief Bill, which would create a tax benefit for small businesses. James Ramos currently chairs the Select Committee on Native American Affairs.

Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he was the Board Chairman for San Bernardino County Board of Supervisor. He is co-founder of the San Manuel Band’s Cultural Awareness Program, and director of the annual California Indian Cultural Awareness Conference.

Ramos has progressive education and economic stances. That said, he has voted against key progressive bills on criminal justice reform, healthcare, the environment, labor, and housing.

Ramos is being challenged by Jennifer Tullius (R). In 2019 Ramos scored an 18 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting records. According to recent election results, Democrats can win this seat but it's often a close race. Though we disagree with Ramos stances on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent the 40th district, Ramos 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.
 

Assemblymember Chris Holden is a lifelong resident of Pasadena. He is the incumbent, having served as Assemblymember for the 41st District in the State Assembly since 2012. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue to find solutions that create and protect jobs, preserve vital services, and strengthen the economic vitality of the San Gabriel Valley.

As an Assemblymember, Holden has authored and led the passage of several bills to support small businesses and innovation, save developmental disability services, protect public health, and preserve civil rights. Assemblymember Holden currently chairs the Assembly Committee on Utilities and Energy. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he spent 24 years as a Pasadena City Councilmember and Mayor.

Assemblymember Holden is challenged by Robin A. Hvidston (R). He scores a lifetime 92 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting record. Based on this analysis, Assemblymember Holden has consistently shown courage advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

According to our analysis, Assemblymember Holden is a strong choice for progressive leadership in office
 

DeniAntoinette Mazingo was born in Los Angeles and now lives in Hemet, CA. According to campaign materials, Mazingo is running to bring programs to the most vulnerable among us, to ensure affordable housing, to create competitive jobs, and to ensure a great quality of life for her community.

Mazingo is an attorney and Riverside County’s Third District Commissioner for Women. She believes that she can help represent the interests of people in need, such as unhoused seniors, single mothers struggling to care for their children, and veterans struggling to survive. Healthcare, housing, and veteran assistance are significant priority areas for Mazingo, and she believes she can make the biggest difference in the area of housing and veteran affairs.

Mazingo is challenging incumbent Chad Mayes (R), who has consistently opposed progressive priorities and sided with corporate lobbyists and failed his constituents across a wide spectrum of issues. Other candidates include Andrew Kotyuk (R). Mazingo is the strongest choice because of her passion for progressive causes and strong slate of endorsements from progressive groups. According to recent election results, Democrats have the potential to win this seat, and Mazingo’s narrow loss in the same district in 2018 indicates her chances are strong in 2020.

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

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 as a strong advocate for the environment.

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 is being challenged by Mike Graves (R), and Robert J. Sexton (NPP). She has a lifetime score of 99 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting record. Based on this analysis, Assemblymember Friedman has consistently shown great courage advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

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 her community is safe, and advocate for fiscally responsible governance.

In the State Assembly, she has advanced legislation to increase funding for education, mental health services, expand consumer protections, and address sexual harassment in the workplace. Irwin currently serves as Chair of the Veteran Affairs Committee and the Cybersecurity Select Committee, as well as sits on three additional committees. Prior to her election to the State Assembly, she worked as an engineer and served as Mayor of Thousand Oaks.

Irwin has progressive positions as it pertains to education, consumer protections, and increasing access to mental health services. That said, she has voted against key progressive bills on criminal justice reform, labor rights, and increasing access to affordable housing.

Irwin is being challenged by Denise Pedrow (R). Irwin has a lifetime score of 46 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator’s progressive voting record. According to recent election results, Democrats can win this seat but it's often a close race. Though we disagree with Irwin’s votes on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent the 44th district, Irwin 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.
 

Assemblymember Nazarian was born in Iran and immigrated to the San Fernando Valley, where he grew up. He currently lives in West Toluca Lake in Los Angeles. He is the incumbent, having served as Assemblymember for the 46th District in the State Assembly since 2012. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to focus on making California schools the best in the nation, to address the lack of affordable housing, and to improve services in L.A. County that help provide a pathway out of homelessness.

In the State Assembly, he authored legislation to extend the Film & TV Tax Credit and has fought to increase school aid, lift the ban on light-rail in the San Fernando Valley, and require health insurers to cover evidence-based behavioral health treatment for autism. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he served as Chief of Staff to Paul Krekorian, then-Assistant Majority Leader in the California State Legislature. He was also appointed as Special Assistant to the California Trade and Commerce Agency by former Governor Gray Davis.

Assemblymember Nazarian is a strong local advocate for ending homelessness, smart transit solutions, and keeping jobs in the San Fernando Valley. That said, he has voted against key progressive bills on issues including electoral reform, criminal justice reform, and protecting the environment.

Assemblymember Nazarian is being challenged by Lanira K. Murphy (D). He has a lifetime score of 86 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting record. Though we disagree with his stance on the issues mentioned above and believe his district deserves a more progressive representative, we are not aware of a viable progressive alternative currently running.
 

Ed Chau is from Hong Kong, grew up in Los Angeles and currently resides in Arcadia, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2012.

In the assembly, he has advanced legislation to protect consumer privacy, address elder abuse, increase access to healthcare, and protect peoples’ voting rights. Chau currently serves as the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Privacy and Consumer Protection, and the Assembly Select Committee on Emerging Technologies and Innovation. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he served on the Montebello Unified School District Board of Education and as a Judge Pro Tem for the Los Angeles Superior Court.

Chau is being challenged by Bryan Perez (D), Pricilla Silva (D), and Burton Brink (R). He has a lifetime score of 93 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator’s progressive voting record. Based on this analysis, Chau has consistently shown great courage advocating for the needs of his constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Asm. Wendy Carrillo is from El Salvador and moved to the Boyle Heights neighborhood in 1985. She has lived in Los Angeles since and first won her seat in 2017. Her campaign materials cite educational opportunities, quality healthcare, living wage jobs, and social justice as her priorities in office.

In the Assembly, Carrillo serves on the Appropriations, Rules, Labor, Health and Utilities & Energy Committees. She was recently a co-author of AB1482, which protects renters from unjust evictions and unreasonable rent increases – it was signed into law in late 2019. Before serving in the Assembly, she was a journalist covering human rights and hosted a community-based progressive radio show.

Carrillo is running unopposed. In our Courage Score analysis, Carrillo earned a score of 90 out of 100 in 2019 and, prior to that, had a lifetime score of 100. She consistently demonstrates courage when advocating for constituents against corporate lobbyists and interest groups. 

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

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, he introduced legislation to bring the Ontario International Airport under local control, extend public transportation, and address public safety concerns. Assemblymember Rodriguez currently serves as Chair of the Committee on Public Employment and Retirement, as well as Chair of the Select Committee on Local Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. He also sits on the Committees on Communications and Conveyance, Health, Joint Legislative Committee on Emergency Management, and an additional two Select Committees. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he worked as an Emergency Responder and served on Pomona City Council.

Assemblymember Rodriguez has progressive positions when it comes to education and voting rights. That said, he is silent and was absent on key votes pertaining to environmental protection, criminal justice reform, and workers’ rights.

Assemblymember Rodriguez is being challenged by Toni Holle (R). Assemblymember Rodriguez has a lifetime score of 53 out of 100 on Courage Score, our analysis of a legislator’s progressive voting record. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Though we disagree with Assemblymember Rodriguez stances on the issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent the 52nd district, Assemblymember 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.
 

Assemblymember Miguel Santiago is a lifelong Angeleno and makes his home in Boyle Heights. He is the incumbent, having served as Assemblymember for the 53rd District in the State Assembly since 2016. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue leading the effort to make community college free for all Californians.

In the Assembly, he has authored and led the passage of several bills related to affordable housing and homelessness, gun violence prevention legislation, public health, and the environment. He currently serves as Chair of the Communications and Conveyance Committee, where he has worked to ensure broadband access throughout California. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he served as the President of the Los Angeles Community College Board.

Assemblymember Santiago is being challenged by Godfrey Santos Plata (D). He has a lifetime score of 90 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting record. Based on this analysis, Assemblymember Santiago has consistently shown great courage advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Asm. Sydney Kamlager-Dove is from Chicago and moved to Los Angeles to attend USC in 1990. She has lived in California for most of the last 30 years. The incumbent, she was elected to the Assembly in early 2018.

Kamlager-Dove sits on Public Safety, Insurance, and Rules Committees. She has authored a number of renter protection measures and crucial criminal justice reforms, helping lead a movement to ban private prisons in California that culminated in Governor Newsom’s signing SB32 last October. Prior to her election she worked to help elect progressive Holly Mitchell to the Assembly, and served on the LA Community College Board of Trustees for two years.

Kamlager-Dove is challenged by Clinton Brown (D), Tracy Bernard Jones (D), and Glen Ratcliff (R). Kamlager-Dove earned an 88 out of 100 on our Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislator's progressive voting records, in both 2018 and 2019. She consistently demonstrates courage when advocating for constituents against corporate lobbyists and interest groups.

Based on our analysis, Kamlager-Dove is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

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, 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 San Gabriel Valley and on several political campaigns, including then Newark Mayor Cory Booker’s successful U.S. Senate bid.

Rodriguez is running against Phillip Chen (R), who is the incumbent and has held the seat since 2018. Assemblymember Chen has shown that he does NOT represent the needs of constituents in facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians. Rodriguez is the progressive choice because of his passion for urban revitalization, planning, and public administration and growing list of endorsements.

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

Eduardo Garcia is a lifelong resident of the Coachella Valley and currently lives in Coachella. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2015. According to campaign materials, Assemblymember Garcia wants to continues to champion healthcare, and environmental and economic development for the Coachella and Imperial Valleys.

Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia has authored several critical pieces of legislation. In 2016, he authored a landmark bill that mandates the reduction of emissions, improves oversight of the Air Resources Board, and lays the groundwork to ensure future policies prioritize investments in the disadvantaged communities most affected by pollution. He currently chairs the Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy, and the Select Committee on Renewable Energy Development and Restoration of the Salton Sea. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he served as Coachella’s first elected mayor.

Eduardo Garcia is being challenged by America Figueroa (R), a vocal anti-LGBTQ+ parents’ rights activist. In 2019, he scored a 92 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Eduardo Garcia has consistently shown great courage advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

We're tracking this race. Please check back soon for an update. 

Assemblymember Jose Medina has been a resident of Riverside County for over 30 years, having received both his undergraduate degree, master's degree, and teaching credentials from UC Riverside. Medina is the incumbent and has served in this office since 2012. According to campaign materials, Medina is running for re-election to continue his efforts to provide affordable, quality higher education to California students.

During his time in the Assembly, Medina has authored a number of bills that provide financial assistance to students in need—including those with DACA status and those who are homeless. Medina currently serves as chair of the Assembly Committee on Higher Education. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Medina was a teacher in the Riverside Unified School District, where he was also a member of the Riverside City Teachers Association and the state council of the California Teachers Association (CTA). Additionally, he served three terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees and had previously been elected to the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education. 

Medina’s commitment to progress is reflected in the bills he’s authored surround Californian’s access to affordable, quality higher education. That said, he’s abstained from voting on some progressive bills that address climate change and corporate transparency.

Medina is running against Ali Mazarei (R). According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Though we disagree with Medina abstaining from voting on issues having to do with corporate transparency and climate change, his commitment to education supports progressive momentum and makes him the strongest choice in this race.

Asm. Autumn Burke is the incumbent, having held this seat since 2014. She was born in Los Angeles County and was a small business owner before taking offce 6 years ago. According to campaign materials, the centerpieces of her legislative career are expanding health care access and economic opportunity for her constituents.

Burke is the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Revenue and Taxation, and sits on the Banking & Finance, Health, and Utilities & Energy Committees. She has authored bills to improve transparency among hospital contracts, support the environment by improving the electric car charging network, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

She is challenged by Robert A. Steele (R). In the past year, Asm. Burke earned an 85 out of 100 in Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator’s progressive voting records. She has been a somewhat reliable progressive legislator and generally (but not always) advocates for her constituents in the face of pressure from corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

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 the Chair of the Assembly Jobs Committee and secured $23 million dollars for small businesses. Quirk-Silva currently sits on the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Communications and Conveyance Committee. Prior to their election to the State Assembly, Quirk-Silva served on the Fullerton City Council starting in 2004 and was elected mayor in 2007.

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.

Quirk-Silva is being challenged by Cynthia Thacker (R). In 2019, Quirk-Silva scored a 49 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislator's progressive voting records. According to recent election results, Democrats can win this seat but it's often a close race. Though we disagree with some of Quirk-Silva’s decisions regarding police accountability, their strong base in a relatively recently flipped district supports progressive momentum and makes them the strongest choice in this race.
 

Al Muratsuchi 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. Muratsuchi currently sits on the Budget Committee, Environmental Safety and Toxins Materials Committee, Natural Resources Committee, Utilities and Energy Committee, and the Veteran Affairs Committee. Prior to his election to the State Assembly, he served as a Torrance School Board member and as a Deputy Attorney General in the California Department of Justice.

Muratsuchi is a supporter of progressive economic policies and environmental protections. Our environmental justice allies work with him closely in advancing environmental priorities. That said, he has a clear history of casting bad votes on criminal justice reform measures. In 2019, he scored a 64 out of 100 on Courage Score, and has a lifetime score of 58, mostly due to his continued unwillingness to support progressive justice reforms. His district is somewhat purple, but his constituents have consistently voted in support of reforming our racist, broken criminal justice system. It is deeply troubling that Muratsuchi refuses to join them.

Muratsuchi is running against Angelica Scherp (D), Connie Sullivan (D), Richard Vaugh (D), Margie Hoyt (D), Stacey Golden (D), Cathy Familathe (D), Sara Deen (D), Donald Dear (D), Bobbi Buecher (D), Thomas Brewer (R), Janice Webb (R), Peter Michel (R), Martha Logan (R), Johnny Lauro (R), Williams Valladares (R), Eric Schuchman (R), Frank Scotto (R), Arthur Schaper (R). Though we disagree with Muratsuchi’s stances and votes on criminal justice reform, his local support and relationships with community leaders support progressive momentum and make him a strong choice in this race. That said, a viable progressive challenger would deserve a close look.
 

Jerry Carlos has been a resident of Lake Elsinore since 1999 and worked in the district in the 1970s. While we do not have sufficient information about this candidate to confirm his viability, we recommend supporting Carlos as a potentially progressive candidate running for this open seat. 

Carlos has run for office in the past, running on a platform of expanding educational and recreational opportunities for city residents, as well as promising to include residents in the policy decision making process. Carlos has worked in public service in law enforcement, fire department administration, and recreational services. He has also worked as a tennis coach in local public schools and is a small business owner. 

Carlos is running against Steve Manos (R), Nick Pardue (R), Kelly Seyarto (R), and Jeremy Smith (R) for this open seat. According to recent election results, it's a long shot for a Democrat to win this seat.

According to our analysis, Jerry Carlos has the potential to provide strong progressive leadership in office. 
 

Assemblymember Tom Daly is from Anaheim, CA and is a lifelong resident of Orange County. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2012. 

In the State Assembly, Assemblymember Daly has been responsible for a variety of bills that have been signed into law that protect Californians and reduce barriers to opportunity for them. In 2019, Daly authored legislation that protects homeowners’ access to insurance policies in high or very high fire hazard severity zones and eliminates fees for Californians who have been involved in the juvenile justice system to request sealing of their juvenile records. He currently serves as Chair of the Insurance Committee, and also serves on the Appropriations, Veterans Affairs, and Transportation committees, among others. 

Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Assemblymember Daly had a long record of public service in Orange County, first as Mayor of Anaheim from 1992 to 2002, and then as Orange County Clerk-Recorder from 2002 to 2012. As Mayor, Assemblymember Daly oversaw the development of Anaheim as a popular tourist destination, developing eight new city parks while also overhauling the city’s planning and land development standards. As Orange County Clerk-Recorder, his administration opened new offices and implemented Orange County's innovative Electronic Recording System, which was recognized nationally for greatly improving accessibility and efficiency for Orange County residents. 

Assemblymember Daly has also championed increased efficiency through modernization of technology and record keeping, improving access for veterans and businesses. That said, he often abstains from taking positions on key progressive bills in areas including affordable housing, criminal justice reform, and worker protections. Assemblymember Daly has a lifetime score of only 32 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting record. 

Assemblymember Daly is being challenged by Jon Paul White (R). According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Though we disagree with Assemblymember Daly's stance on the many issues named above, and know that a stronger progressive candidate would more accurately represent the 69th district, Daly 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.

Kim Mangone, a veteran, is from Lancaster, CA. According to campaign materials, Mangone is running for congress because she understands the leadership her district needs and is confident that her problem-solving skills will allow her to advance policies to benefit her community.

Kim Mangone is a United States Air Force veteran, aircraft mechanic, and retired systems engineer. While serving her country, Mangone developed innovative solutions to the problems she encountered and said she would apply those skills if elected. Mangone, a single parent, put herself through school while working full-time. The experience of balancing school, work, and child care has given her insight into the issues that many in her community experience and is what motivates her to become the district’s next representative.

Kim Mangone is running against Representative Kevin McCarthy (R), who is the incumbent and has been in congress since 2007. Mangone is the best progressive choice because of her vision to enact policies that help us achieve universal healthcare and her pledge to protect programs like social security from GOP attacks.

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

Representative Julia Brownley is from Aiken, SC, and currently resides in Thousand Oaks, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2013. According to campaign materials, she is running for congress to advocate for the needs of her constituents and defend the civil rights of all Americans.

In Congress, Rep. Brownley has worked to bring down high healthcare costs, fought to make higher education more affordable, preserve the environment, ensure that veterans receive the care and services they deserve, and defend Social Security and Medicare from Republican attacks. Rep. Brownley currently sits on the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in 2019 received an appointment to the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis due to her leadership on environmental preservation. Prior to her election to Congress, she served in the State Assembly and the Santa Monica-Malibu school board.

Rep. Brownley supports progressive environmental, healthcare, and education policies. That said, she has been silent on other progressive issues, and has cast unfavorable votes that increased funding to Immigration and Custom Enforcement, failed to extend paid family leave for federal employees, and rejected measures to limit federal employers from discriminating against job applicants with a criminal history.

Rep. Brownley is being challenged by Enrique Petris (D), Robert L. Salas (D), and Rounda Baldwin-Kennedy (R). Even though we don’t agree with all the votes cast by Rep. Brownley on the issues mentioned above, her relationships with progressive partners and support in her district helps to advance progressive policies, which makes her a strong choice in this race.

Representative Judy Chu was born in Los Angeles and has lived in Monterey Park, CA, for over 33 years. She is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 2009. According to campaign materials, Rep. Chu is running for congress to continue her fight for progress in the San Gabriel Valley.

In Congress, Rep. Chu has worked with the Department of Defense to address military hazing, pushed to successfully declare the San Gabriel Mountains a national monument, and has established two Small Business Development Centers that have helped spur local economic growth. Rep. Chu currently sits on the House Committees on Ways and Means, Small Businesses, as well as sits on two subcommittees, and is a founder and co-chair of the Congressional Creative Rights Caucus. Prior to her election to Congress, Rep. Chu served on the Garvey School District School Board, Monterey Park City Council, and in the State Assembly.

Rep. Chu is challenged by Beatrice Cardenas (R), Johnny J. Nalbandian (R), and Christian Daly (NPP). According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Rep. Chu is the best progressive choice because of her track record of fighting for progress for the San Gabriel Valley and her pledge to continue to do so.
 

Representative Adam Schiff is from Framingham, MA, and currently resides in Burbank, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 2001. According to his campaign materials, Schiff is running for re-election to advocate for working-class families, equality, and sensible policies on issues from gun violence to climate change. 

In Congress, Rep. Schiff has advanced legislation to bring good-paying jobs to his district, increase access to affordable education, and improve environmental protections. Rep. Schiff currently serves as Chair of the House Intelligence Committee, where he has skillfully led the impeachment inquiry into the current President’s abuse of power. Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Schiff served as a State Senator and an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Los Angeles. 

Rep. Schiff supports progressive education, immigration, and environmental policies. That said, he has cast unfavorable votes on issues pertaining to military spending and the use of military force. 

Rep. Schiff is running against Chad D. Anderson (D), Sal Genovese (D), Ara Khachig Manoogian (D), G. "Maebe A. Girl" Pudlo (D), William Bodell (R), Eric Early (R), and Jennifer Barbosa (NPP). Though we disagree with Rep. Schiff’s past hawkish foreign policy votes, his highly effective management of the impeachment inquiry, position of power in Congress, and community support helps advance progress and makes him the strongest choice in this race.
 

Representative Tony Cárdenas is a native of San Fernando Valley. He is the incumbent, having served as the representative for the 29th District in Congress since 2013. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to continue providing strong progressive leadership in Congress across issues including juvenile justice, clean energy, immigration, education, and job creation.  

As a congressional representative, Rep. Cárdenas has authored a variety of bills in support of issues including education, job creation, immigrant services, and the closure of tax loopholes. Prior to his election to Congress, he was the first Latino to represent the Valley in California’s State Legislature. There he co-authored the landmark Juvenile Justice Crime Prevention Act, which has made $100 million in funds available to counties each year since 2001 to promote a comprehensive, collaborative approach to juvenile justice that has increased transparency into policing and probation programs and provided resources for effective prevention programs. Rep. Cárdenas also spent ten years serving on the Los Angeles City Council where he authored legislation that created Los Angeles' first Animal Cruelty Task Force.

Rep. Cárdenas is being challenged by Angélica María Dueñas (D), Michael R. Guzik (D), and Brian Perras (R). Rep. Cárdenas stands out as the progressive choice because of his consistently forward-looking vision and ability to successfully pass legislative reforms since he first entered public service in 1996. Based on our analysis, Rep Cárdenas is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

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 twelfth 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 including 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. He is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Financial Services Committee. 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.

Rep. Sherman is being challenged by Courtney “CJ” Berina (D), Raji Rab (D), Brian Carroll (D), and Mark S. Reed (R), although none of them appear to meet our viability criteria. Despite the above concerns, Rep. Sherman stands out as the best choice because of his senior position in Congress, progressive voice, base of support in his district, and ability to successfully pass legislative reforms. 
 

Representative Pete Aguilar is a fourth-generation San Bernardino county resident and currently resides in Redlands, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2015. According to campaign materials, he is running to keep his seat because he understands the problems families in his community face and knows how to bring people together to solve hardships.

In Congress, Rep. Aguilar has worked to expand economic opportunities, protect veterans, and fix the country’s broken immigration system. Furthermore, he has successfully fought to defend programs such as Medicare and Social Security from ongoing GOP attacks. Rep. Aguilar currently serves as Vice-Chair of the House Appropriations Committee and sits on three additional subcommittees. Prior to his election to Congress, he served as the Mayor of Redlands, where he developed a reputation as someone who brings people together on behalf of his community to increase economic opportunities and solve issues pertaining to public safety and public health.

Rep. Aguilar has progressive positions when it comes to increasing access to educational opportunities, preserving the environment, and fixing the country’s broken immigration system. That said, he has voted against key progressive bills on military spending, taxation policy, and limiting payments from health savings accounts for medication.

Rep. Aguilar is being challenged by Agnes Gibboney (R). According to recent election results, Democrats can win this seat but it's often a close race. Though we disagree with Rep. Aguilar’s votes pertaining to military spending, taxation policy, and healthcare, his relationships with partners, strong base in a moderate district and progressive stance on issues like education, immigration and environmental protections make him the best choice in this race.
 

Representative Grace Napolitano is from Brownsville, TX, and currently resides in Los Angeles County. She is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 1999. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to stick up for labor rights, push for immigration reform, improve veteran services, and restore water infrastructure.

In Congress, Napolitano has advanced legislation to secure funding to improve water management, mental health services, and has led a task force to reduce gun violence. Napolitano serves as Chair of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment. Prior to her election to Congress, she served on the Norwalk City Council, as Mayor of Norwalk, and in the State Assembly.

Napolitano is running against Emanuel Gonzales (D), Meshal "Kash" Kashifalghita (D), and Joshua M. Scott (R). Napolitano is the best progressive choice because of her track record of using her position of power on Capitol Hill to advance legislation that addresses her constituents’ needs.

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

Representative Jimmy Gomez is from Southern California and currently resides in Eagle Rock, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2017. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election to advance progressive legislation to address environmental injustice, increase access to education and healthcare, as well as support reproductive and workers' rights. 

In Congress, he has co-sponsored over 200 pieces of legislation that focus on environmental justice, public health concerns, access to quality education and housing, domestic violence, sexual assault, campaign finance reform, civil rights, and reproductive rights. Rep. Gomez currently sits on Ways and Means and the Committee on Oversight and Reform. Prior to his election to Congress, he served in the state legislature and as a community organizer. 

Rep. Gomez is being challenged by David Kim (D), Frances Yasmeen Motiwalla (D), Keanakay Scott (D), and Joanne L. Wright (R). According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Opponents criticize Gomez for taking sizable campaign donations from special interests, as well as an immigration vote that resulted in funding increases to border patrol and ICE.  

Given the aforementioned concerns, Rep. Gomez is still the best progressive choice because of his committee positions, his commitment to championing progressive legislation that addresses issues facing his constituents. According to our analysis, Gomez is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
 

Representative Norma Torres is from Guatemala and immigrated to the United States at five-years-old. She is a longtime resident of the Inland Empire and currently resides in Pomona, CA. Rep. Torres is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 2015. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue her fight against Republicans’ regressive policies.

In Congress, Rep. Torres has worked to address issues of national security by solving cyber security vulnerabilities at shipping ports. Furthermore, she has advanced initiatives to address the root causes of migration from Central America and public safety concerns of indigenous communities. Rep. Torres currently sits on the Appropriations Committee and the Rules Committee. Prior to her election to Congress, she served as the Mayor of Pomona, CA, in the State Assembly, and the State Senate where she worked to promote diversity in leadership. She also successfully fought to restore local authority of the Ontario Airport, and played a pivotal role in developing the “Keep Your Home California” program, which allowed over 80,000 families to stay in their homes and avoid foreclosures following the Great Recession.

Rep. Torres is being challenged by Mike Cargile (R). Though we disagree with some of Rep. Torres’ votes on military spending, border security, and healthcare, her progressive stances on education and the environment, as well as her relationships with partners, make her a strong choice in this race.
 

Representative Raul Ruiz grew up in Coachella, CA, and currently resides in La Quinta, CA. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2013. According to campaign materials, he is running to fulfill his pledge to serve his community and address the issues his district faces by being a strong advocate in Washington.

In Congress, Rep. Ruiz has utilized his knowledge as an emergency physician to make the case to save programs such as Medicare and Social Security. Furthermore, he has been a strong advocate for veterans, and a voice of opposition against the influence of special interests in Washington. Rep. Ruiz currently serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee and sits on three additional subcommittees. Prior to his election to Congress, he worked as an emergency physician in the Coachella Valley and was the founder and director of the Coachella Valley Healthcare Initiative, where he successfully brought together members of his community to improve access to healthcare and address public health issues.

Rep. Ruiz has progressive positions when it comes to preserving the environment and ensuring access to affordable, quality healthcare. That said, he has voted against key progressive bills pertaining to military spending and other issues involving trade and earlier votes on the impeachment of the President.

Rep. Ruiz is being challenged by Erin Cruz (R), Patrice Kimbler (R), and Milo Stevanovich (R). According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Though we disagree with Rep. Ruiz’s votes on military spending, trade, and impeachment, his relationships with partners and position of power in Congress supports progressive momentum and makes him a strong choice in this race.
 

Representative Karen Bass is from Los Angeles. She is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 2011. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue to play a leading role in protecting voting rights, healthcare, jobs, education, criminal justice reform, and standing up to the Trump Administration.

In Congress, she has worked to protect peoples’ voting rights, access to healthcare, jobs, quality education, and to hold those in power accountable. She has also advanced progressive policies and instituted initiatives to help Congress better serve the people. Bass developed the Congressional Council, which provides her constituents with the ability to learn about issues in Congress and how they can become involved in the legislative process. Rep. Bass currently sits on the Foreign Affairs Committee, Judiciary Committee, and serves as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Prior to her election to Congress, she served in the State Assembly as the Speaker.

Rep. Bass is being challenged by Errol Webber (R) and Larry Thompson (NPP). Rep. Bass is the best progressive choice because of her proven track record of making government work better for the people it serves.

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

Representative Linda Sánchez is from Orange, CA, just south of the district. She is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 2003. According to campaign materials, Rep. Sánchez is running for re-election to improve the lives of families in her district by making Southern California a better place to live and work for everyone.

In Congress, Rep. Sánchez has advanced legislation to improve workplace safety, address cyber-bullying, and has worked to bring government and business together to bring good-paying jobs to her district. Rep. Sánchez sits on the Ways and Means Committee and the subcommittees on Oversight, Select Revenue Measures, and Social Security. Additionally, she serves as the Vice-Chair of LGBT Equality Caucus and was the former Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. Prior to her election to Congress, she served as the Executive Secretary-Treasurer for the Orange County Labor Council, AFL-CIO. 

Rep. Sánchez is being challenged by Michael Tolar (D). Challenger critiques of Sánchez include concerns about her sizable campaign donations from special interests and her inability to quickly enact large structural change. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat.

Rep. Sánchez is the best progressive choice because of her positions of power in Congress, relationships with partners and her vision to advance progressive policies that improve the lives of people in her district. According to our analysis, Rep. Sánchez is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

William “Liam” O'Mara resides in Lake Elsinore, CA. According to campaign materials, he is running for Congress to advocate for his community’s needs and to fight for an America that benefits all, not just those at the top.

O’Mara is a history professor at Chapman University, where he works to spread knowledge and share his expertise, as well as learn from his students about the difficult experiences people face in today’s society. He put himself through college and pursued a Ph.D. in history while working as a cook, longshoreman, and in technology.

O’Mara is committed to enacting progressive policies such as Medicare for All so that people have access to quality healthcare regardless of financial circumstances, paid sick and family leave to provide stability when people experience unexpected situations, a $15 minimum wage, and tuition free public college so that people have access to learn the necessary skills for a job in today’s economy.

O’Mara is running against Ken Calvert (R), who is the incumbent and has held the seat since 1993, as well as Regina Marston (D). According to recent election results, it's rare that Democrats wins this seat.

According to our analysis, O’Mara is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.
 

Representative Maxine Waters is from St. Louis, MO, and moved to Los Angeles in 1961. She is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 1991. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to continue to advocate for the needs of her district and to hold those in power accountable.

In Congress, Rep. Waters has secured $10 billion in Section 108 loan guarantees, spurred economic and infrastructure development, and played a pivotal role in establishing the “Youth Fair Chance” program, which provides unemployed youth with skills training for well paying jobs. Rep. Waters currently serves as Chair of the House Financial Services Committee, where she leads the fight to hold financial institutions accountable for predatory behavior. Prior to being elected to Congress, she served in the State Assembly.

Rep. Waters is being challenged by Omar Navarro (R), and Joe Collins III (R). Rep. Waters is the best progressive choice because of her grassroots philosophy of listening to the people she serves and fighting on their behalf.

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

Representative Nanette Barragán is from Los Angeles and currently resides in San Pedro, CA. She is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2017. According to campaign materials, she is running for re-election to fight for immigration reform, veterans, access to quality healthcare, and the environment.

In Congress, Rep. Barragán works to protect vulnerable communities, social security, and Medicare from Republican attacks. She became a leading critic and leader against the administration's policy of child separations. Barragán currently serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee, where she is on the Health, Environment and Climate Change, and Energy subcommittees. She also serves on the Committee on Homeland Security where she is on the Border and Maritime Security and Oversight and Management Efficiency Subcommittees. Prior to her election to Congress, she served as the Mayor of Beach City and worked at the NAACP to address racial health disparities and discrimination.

Rep. Barragán is being challenged by Morris F. Griffin (D), Analilia Joya (D), and Billy Z. Earley (R). Rep. Barragán is the best progressive choice because of her track record of fighting for marginalized communities.

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