Mark Stone (listed in Progressive Voters Guide)

Congress

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below congressional districts on your ballot.

Rep. Eshoo was born in Connecticut, and moved to California after high school. She is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 1993; after the 2012 redistricting the district was renumbered from the 14th to the 18th. Her campaign materials highlight her commitment to gun violence prevention, taking action on climate change, protecting the Affordable Care Act, ensuring net neutrality, as well as immigration reform.

In Congress Eshoo has worked to pass legislation to protect individuals with pre-existing conditions, lower prescription drug prices, and authored an op-ed with Rep. Adam Schiff on the need to reduce American dependence on drugs produced overseas. She supports universal healthcare, but has stopped short of supporting Medicare for All, citing concerns about how it would be funded. She has opposed Trump’s immigration policies, including the Muslim ban, detention centers, the border wall, separating families at the border and making it harder for immigrants to obtain public services, like food stamps. She has fought to protect net neutrality, end robocalls, and worked with Rep. Lofgren on new data and privacy protections.

Eshoo is being challenged by Rishi Kumar (D), Bob Goodwyn (L), Richard Fox (R), and Phil Reynolds (R). According to our analysis, Eshoo is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Rep. Eshoo was born in Connecticut, and moved to California after high school. She is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 1993; after the 2012 redistricting the district was renumbered from the 14th to the 18th. Her campaign materials highlight her commitment to gun violence prevention, taking action on climate change, protecting the Affordable Care Act, ensuring net neutrality, as well as immigration reform.

In Congress Eshoo has worked to pass legislation to protect individuals with pre-existing conditions, lower prescription drug prices, and authored an op-ed with Rep. Adam Schiff on the need to reduce American dependence on drugs produced overseas. She supports universal healthcare, but has stopped short of supporting Medicare for All, citing concerns about how it would be funded. She has opposed Trump’s immigration policies, including the Muslim ban, detention centers, the border wall, separating families at the border and making it harder for immigrants to obtain public services, like food stamps. She has fought to protect net neutrality, end robocalls, and worked with Rep. Lofgren on new data and privacy protections.

Eshoo is being challenged by Rishi Kumar (D), Bob Goodwyn (L), Richard Fox (R), and Phil Reynolds (R). According to our analysis, Eshoo is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California Teachers Association , NARAL Pro-Choice California , National Union of Healthcare Workers , Planned Parenthood Action Fund , SEIU CA

Rep. Eshoo was born in Connecticut, and moved to California after high school. She is the incumbent, having served in Congress since 1993; after the 2012 redistricting the district was renumbered from the 14th to the 18th. Her campaign materials highlight her commitment to gun violence prevention, taking action on climate change, protecting the Affordable Care Act, ensuring net neutrality, as well as immigration reform.

In Congress Eshoo has worked to pass legislation to protect individuals with pre-existing conditions, lower prescription drug prices, and authored an op-ed with Rep. Adam Schiff on the need to reduce American dependence on drugs produced overseas. She supports universal healthcare, but has stopped short of supporting Medicare for All, citing concerns about how it would be funded. She has opposed Trump’s immigration policies, including the Muslim ban, detention centers, the border wall, separating families at the border and making it harder for immigrants to obtain public services, like food stamps. She has fought to protect net neutrality, end robocalls, and worked with Rep. Lofgren on new data and privacy protections.

Eshoo is being challenged by Rishi Kumar (D), Bob Goodwyn (L), Richard Fox (R), and Phil Reynolds (R). According to our analysis, Eshoo is the strongest choice for progressive leadership in office.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California Teachers Association , NARAL Pro-Choice California , National Union of Healthcare Workers , Planned Parenthood Action Fund , SEIU CA

19th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

Democrat

Zoe Lofgren

Website Endorsements

Rep. Lofgren was born and raised in the Bay Area, and attending Stanford and Santa Clara Law School. Lofgren is the incumbent, having served in the House of Representatives since 1995. According to campaign materials she is running for re-election to protect dreamers, end gun violence, protect the free and open internet, and getting dirty money out of politics.

In Congress, she helped pass the DREAM Act of 2019 (and 2010), and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act in the House. She has opposed the Trump administration's immigration policies, and has called for an end to the detention centers, and for foreign aid to end the instability in Central America that leads to people fleeing their homes. As the representative for the heart of Silicon Valley, she has been active on Internet and technology issues. She fought the controversial Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA), NSA surveillance of Americans, and recently introduced the Online Privacy Act. Lofrgen has been a strong supporter of women’s rights, abortion protections, LGBTQ equity and has led the implementation of the House of Representatives' mandatory anti-harassment and anti-discrimination trainings.

Prior to her role as Congresswoman, she was an immigration lawyer, taught at Santa Clara Law School, and served as Staff Assistant to Congressman Don Edwards.

Lofgren is being challenged by Ivan Torres (D), Justin Aguilera (R), Ignacio Cruz (R), and Jason Mallory (NPP).

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Rep. Lofgren was born and raised in the Bay Area, and attending Stanford and Santa Clara Law School. Lofgren is the incumbent, having served in the House of Representatives since 1995. According to campaign materials she is running for re-election to protect dreamers, end gun violence, protect the free and open internet, and getting dirty money out of politics.

In Congress, she helped pass the DREAM Act of 2019 (and 2010), and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act in the House. She has opposed the Trump administration's immigration policies, and has called for an end to the detention centers, and for foreign aid to end the instability in Central America that leads to people fleeing their homes. As the representative for the heart of Silicon Valley, she has been active on Internet and technology issues. She fought the controversial Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA), NSA surveillance of Americans, and recently introduced the Online Privacy Act. Lofrgen has been a strong supporter of women’s rights, abortion protections, LGBTQ equity and has led the implementation of the House of Representatives' mandatory anti-harassment and anti-discrimination trainings.

Prior to her role as Congresswoman, she was an immigration lawyer, taught at Santa Clara Law School, and served as Staff Assistant to Congressman Don Edwards.

Lofgren is being challenged by Ivan Torres (D), Justin Aguilera (R), Ignacio Cruz (R), and Jason Mallory (NPP).

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California Nurses Association , National Union of Healthcare Workers , Planned Parenthood Action Fund , SEIU CA , United Farm Workers

Rep. Lofgren was born and raised in the Bay Area, and attending Stanford and Santa Clara Law School. Lofgren is the incumbent, having served in the House of Representatives since 1995. According to campaign materials she is running for re-election to protect dreamers, end gun violence, protect the free and open internet, and getting dirty money out of politics.

In Congress, she helped pass the DREAM Act of 2019 (and 2010), and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act in the House. She has opposed the Trump administration's immigration policies, and has called for an end to the detention centers, and for foreign aid to end the instability in Central America that leads to people fleeing their homes. As the representative for the heart of Silicon Valley, she has been active on Internet and technology issues. She fought the controversial Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA), NSA surveillance of Americans, and recently introduced the Online Privacy Act. Lofrgen has been a strong supporter of women’s rights, abortion protections, LGBTQ equity and has led the implementation of the House of Representatives' mandatory anti-harassment and anti-discrimination trainings.

Prior to her role as Congresswoman, she was an immigration lawyer, taught at Santa Clara Law School, and served as Staff Assistant to Congressman Don Edwards.

Lofgren is being challenged by Ivan Torres (D), Justin Aguilera (R), Ignacio Cruz (R), and Jason Mallory (NPP).

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California Nurses Association , National Union of Healthcare Workers , Planned Parenthood Action Fund , SEIU CA , United Farm Workers

State Assembly, 29th District

Member of the State Assembly

Democrat

Mark Stone

Website Endorsements

Mark Stone lives in Scotts Valley. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2012. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election because he wants to continue to protect the most vulnerable Californians.

In the State Assembly, Rep. Stone has led reform in criminal justice, youth and education, LGBTQ+ rights, and the environment. Last year, his bill to eliminate copayments for medical and dental visits for incarcerated people became law, as well as a bill that allowed more incarcerated people to qualify to earn parole credits. He also introduced a Student Borrower’s Bill of Rights, and the Coastal Adaptation, Access, and Resilience Program (CAARP) to fund climate adaptation projects. He currently chairs the Judiciary Committee. Prior to their election to the State Assembly, he served two terms on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.

Mark Stone is being challenged by Shomir Banerjee (R). He scores a lifetime 100 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Mark Stone has consistently shown great courage in advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Mark Stone lives in Scotts Valley. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2012. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election because he wants to continue to protect the most vulnerable Californians.

In the State Assembly, Rep. Stone has led reform in criminal justice, youth and education, LGBTQ+ rights, and the environment. Last year, his bill to eliminate copayments for medical and dental visits for incarcerated people became law, as well as a bill that allowed more incarcerated people to qualify to earn parole credits. He also introduced a Student Borrower’s Bill of Rights, and the Coastal Adaptation, Access, and Resilience Program (CAARP) to fund climate adaptation projects. He currently chairs the Judiciary Committee. Prior to their election to the State Assembly, he served two terms on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.

Mark Stone is being challenged by Shomir Banerjee (R). He scores a lifetime 100 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Mark Stone has consistently shown great courage in advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California Teachers Association , National Union of Healthcare Workers , SEIU CA , Sierra Club California , United Domestic Workers , United Farm Workers

Mark Stone lives in Scotts Valley. He is the incumbent, having served in this position since 2012. According to campaign materials, he is running for re-election because he wants to continue to protect the most vulnerable Californians.

In the State Assembly, Rep. Stone has led reform in criminal justice, youth and education, LGBTQ+ rights, and the environment. Last year, his bill to eliminate copayments for medical and dental visits for incarcerated people became law, as well as a bill that allowed more incarcerated people to qualify to earn parole credits. He also introduced a Student Borrower’s Bill of Rights, and the Coastal Adaptation, Access, and Resilience Program (CAARP) to fund climate adaptation projects. He currently chairs the Judiciary Committee. Prior to their election to the State Assembly, he served two terms on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.

Mark Stone is being challenged by Shomir Banerjee (R). He scores a lifetime 100 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislators’ progressive voting record. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Mark Stone has consistently shown great courage in advocating for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California Teachers Association , National Union of Healthcare Workers , SEIU CA , Sierra Club California , United Domestic Workers , United Farm Workers

State Senate

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

State Senator, 15th District

Member of the State Senate

There are two well-qualified candidates in this race who have received broad support from progressive advocates: Anne Ravel and Dave Cortese. After extensive research, we believe they are both good choices. Read the full descriptions below to find the candidate which best fits your values and priorities for State Senate District 15.

Democrat

Ann Ravel

Website Endorsements

Ann Ravel was born in Chile, moved to San Jose when she was 11 years old, and raised her family in District 15. According to campaign materials, she is running to bring her lifetime of advocacy and social justice experience to the State Senate to continue to work for the protection and empowerment of marginalized communities.

Ravel is an accomplished attorney, which she says allows her to hold special interest groups accountable and improve equity for Californians. Ravel’s interest in activism began before she completed her law degree, when she worked to improve labor conditions by helping to unionize the wait staff at a restaurant where she worked. After completing her J.D., Ravel acted as the Santa Clara County Counsel for over a decade, working to restrict Big Tobacco and Big Banks, challenge Prop 8, protect children from lead paint, and create the Educational Rights Project to protect youth living in foster care. Ravel then served as Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Department of Justice, where she continued her work to hold corporations accountable, including BP and the pharmaceutical industry. Ravel was then appointed by Governor Brown to serve as the Chair of the Fair Political Practices Commission, where she led efforts to push back against the dark money being used to push through Proposition 32. After demonstrating her ethics in this role, she was selected by President Obama to serve on the Federal Election Commission and was confirmed with a unanimous Senate vote. Today, Ravel is suing Google to adjust their practices around sexual misconduct and retaliation against female employees.

Ravel is running against candidate Nora Campos (D), Dave Cortese (D), Ken Del Valle (R), Robert Howell(R), Johnny Khamis (NPP), and Tim Gildersleeve (NPP) in this open race. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Ravel is a noteable progressive choice because of her lifelong commitment to working to improve the experience of Californians by holding powerful entities accountable.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Ann Ravel was born in Chile, moved to San Jose when she was 11 years old, and raised her family in District 15. According to campaign materials, she is running to bring her lifetime of advocacy and social justice experience to the State Senate to continue to work for the protection and empowerment of marginalized communities.

Ravel is an accomplished attorney, which she says allows her to hold special interest groups accountable and improve equity for Californians. Ravel’s interest in activism began before she completed her law degree, when she worked to improve labor conditions by helping to unionize the wait staff at a restaurant where she worked. After completing her J.D., Ravel acted as the Santa Clara County Counsel for over a decade, working to restrict Big Tobacco and Big Banks, challenge Prop 8, protect children from lead paint, and create the Educational Rights Project to protect youth living in foster care. Ravel then served as Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Department of Justice, where she continued her work to hold corporations accountable, including BP and the pharmaceutical industry. Ravel was then appointed by Governor Brown to serve as the Chair of the Fair Political Practices Commission, where she led efforts to push back against the dark money being used to push through Proposition 32. After demonstrating her ethics in this role, she was selected by President Obama to serve on the Federal Election Commission and was confirmed with a unanimous Senate vote. Today, Ravel is suing Google to adjust their practices around sexual misconduct and retaliation against female employees.

Ravel is running against candidate Nora Campos (D), Dave Cortese (D), Ken Del Valle (R), Robert Howell(R), Johnny Khamis (NPP), and Tim Gildersleeve (NPP) in this open race. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Ravel is a noteable progressive choice because of her lifelong commitment to working to improve the experience of Californians by holding powerful entities accountable.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California League of Conservation Voters , NARAL Pro-Choice California

Ann Ravel was born in Chile, moved to San Jose when she was 11 years old, and raised her family in District 15. According to campaign materials, she is running to bring her lifetime of advocacy and social justice experience to the State Senate to continue to work for the protection and empowerment of marginalized communities.

Ravel is an accomplished attorney, which she says allows her to hold special interest groups accountable and improve equity for Californians. Ravel’s interest in activism began before she completed her law degree, when she worked to improve labor conditions by helping to unionize the wait staff at a restaurant where she worked. After completing her J.D., Ravel acted as the Santa Clara County Counsel for over a decade, working to restrict Big Tobacco and Big Banks, challenge Prop 8, protect children from lead paint, and create the Educational Rights Project to protect youth living in foster care. Ravel then served as Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Department of Justice, where she continued her work to hold corporations accountable, including BP and the pharmaceutical industry. Ravel was then appointed by Governor Brown to serve as the Chair of the Fair Political Practices Commission, where she led efforts to push back against the dark money being used to push through Proposition 32. After demonstrating her ethics in this role, she was selected by President Obama to serve on the Federal Election Commission and was confirmed with a unanimous Senate vote. Today, Ravel is suing Google to adjust their practices around sexual misconduct and retaliation against female employees.

Ravel is running against candidate Nora Campos (D), Dave Cortese (D), Ken Del Valle (R), Robert Howell(R), Johnny Khamis (NPP), and Tim Gildersleeve (NPP) in this open race. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Ravel is a noteable progressive choice because of her lifelong commitment to working to improve the experience of Californians by holding powerful entities accountable.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California League of Conservation Voters , NARAL Pro-Choice California

Democrat

Dave Cortese

Website Endorsements

Dave Cortese is from East San Jose and is a lifelong resident of Santa Clara County. According to campaign materials, he is running for State Senate because he has a long history of public service at the local level that has provided him with a strong understanding of the unique challenges of the region. Cortese hopes to build on his progressive foundation by continuing to legislate on affordable housing, homelessness, and environmental protections.

Cortese has been a member of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors since 2008, which he does to bring increased social equity and justice to his community. Cortese served as Board President for four years, and has several accomplishments as a member, including addressing and reducing homelessness in the region, advocating for changes to criminal justice custody operations, and decreasing the number of children involved in the child welfare system. Prior to his election to the Board, Cortese ran a large family agriculture and real estate business, served as a member of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the Valley Transportation Authority, and as a trustee for the East Side Union High School District. In each of these roles, Cortese worked to build funding for capital projects intended to support local communities.

Cortese is running against Nora Campos (D), Ann Ravel (D), Ken Del Valle (R), Robert Howell(R), Johnny Khamis (NPP), and Tim Gildersleeve (NPP) in this open race. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Cortese is a noteable progressive choice because of his long career in public service and his track record of pushing for policies that benefit vulnerable populations, and improve the wellbeing of the community.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Dave Cortese is from East San Jose and is a lifelong resident of Santa Clara County. According to campaign materials, he is running for State Senate because he has a long history of public service at the local level that has provided him with a strong understanding of the unique challenges of the region. Cortese hopes to build on his progressive foundation by continuing to legislate on affordable housing, homelessness, and environmental protections.

Cortese has been a member of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors since 2008, which he does to bring increased social equity and justice to his community. Cortese served as Board President for four years, and has several accomplishments as a member, including addressing and reducing homelessness in the region, advocating for changes to criminal justice custody operations, and decreasing the number of children involved in the child welfare system. Prior to his election to the Board, Cortese ran a large family agriculture and real estate business, served as a member of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the Valley Transportation Authority, and as a trustee for the East Side Union High School District. In each of these roles, Cortese worked to build funding for capital projects intended to support local communities.

Cortese is running against Nora Campos (D), Ann Ravel (D), Ken Del Valle (R), Robert Howell(R), Johnny Khamis (NPP), and Tim Gildersleeve (NPP) in this open race. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Cortese is a noteable progressive choice because of his long career in public service and his track record of pushing for policies that benefit vulnerable populations, and improve the wellbeing of the community.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California League of Conservation Voters , California Teachers Association , SEIU CA

Dave Cortese is from East San Jose and is a lifelong resident of Santa Clara County. According to campaign materials, he is running for State Senate because he has a long history of public service at the local level that has provided him with a strong understanding of the unique challenges of the region. Cortese hopes to build on his progressive foundation by continuing to legislate on affordable housing, homelessness, and environmental protections.

Cortese has been a member of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors since 2008, which he does to bring increased social equity and justice to his community. Cortese served as Board President for four years, and has several accomplishments as a member, including addressing and reducing homelessness in the region, advocating for changes to criminal justice custody operations, and decreasing the number of children involved in the child welfare system. Prior to his election to the Board, Cortese ran a large family agriculture and real estate business, served as a member of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the Valley Transportation Authority, and as a trustee for the East Side Union High School District. In each of these roles, Cortese worked to build funding for capital projects intended to support local communities.

Cortese is running against Nora Campos (D), Ann Ravel (D), Ken Del Valle (R), Robert Howell(R), Johnny Khamis (NPP), and Tim Gildersleeve (NPP) in this open race. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Cortese is a noteable progressive choice because of his long career in public service and his track record of pushing for policies that benefit vulnerable populations, and improve the wellbeing of the community.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California League of Conservation Voters , California Teachers Association , SEIU CA

State Senator, 17th District

Member of the State Senate

There are two well-qualified candidates in this race who have received broad support from progressive advocates: Maria Cadenas and John Laird. After extensive research, we believe they are both good choices. Read the full descriptions below to find the candidate which best fits your values and priorities for State Senate District 17.

Democrat

John Laird

Website Endorsements

John Laird is from Vallejo and is a long-time resident of Santa Cruz. According to campaign materials he is running for State Senate to build on his long history of public service and activism by providing leadership on local environmental issues and pushing for continued social reforms.

Laird has recently completed eight years of service as the California Secretary for Natural Resources, which he did because of his strong interest and experience in advocating for environmental issues. Over the course of his career, Laird has been a leading voice on environmental issues, including advocating for the establishment of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, addressing the dwindling water supply, and responding to the frequent wildfires. Prior to his Secretarial appointment, Laird served two terms as the Mayor of Santa Cruz, sat on the Santa Cruz City Council, was the Executive Director of the Santa Cruz AIDS Project, taught environmental policy at UC Santa Cruz, and held a seat in the State Assembly for three terms. Laird was prolific in the Assembly, authoring 82 bills that were signed into law.

Laird is running against Maria Cadenas (D), John Nevill (D), and Vicki Nohrden (R) for this open seat. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Laird is a noteworthy progressive choice because of his track record of public service, and his commitment to important regional issues like environmental protections and education reform.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

John Laird is from Vallejo and is a long-time resident of Santa Cruz. According to campaign materials he is running for State Senate to build on his long history of public service and activism by providing leadership on local environmental issues and pushing for continued social reforms.

Laird has recently completed eight years of service as the California Secretary for Natural Resources, which he did because of his strong interest and experience in advocating for environmental issues. Over the course of his career, Laird has been a leading voice on environmental issues, including advocating for the establishment of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, addressing the dwindling water supply, and responding to the frequent wildfires. Prior to his Secretarial appointment, Laird served two terms as the Mayor of Santa Cruz, sat on the Santa Cruz City Council, was the Executive Director of the Santa Cruz AIDS Project, taught environmental policy at UC Santa Cruz, and held a seat in the State Assembly for three terms. Laird was prolific in the Assembly, authoring 82 bills that were signed into law.

Laird is running against Maria Cadenas (D), John Nevill (D), and Vicki Nohrden (R) for this open seat. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Laird is a noteworthy progressive choice because of his track record of public service, and his commitment to important regional issues like environmental protections and education reform.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California League of Conservation Voters , California Nurses Association , California Teachers Association , Equality California , National Union of Healthcare Workers , SEIU CA , Sierra Club California , United Domestic Workers

John Laird is from Vallejo and is a long-time resident of Santa Cruz. According to campaign materials he is running for State Senate to build on his long history of public service and activism by providing leadership on local environmental issues and pushing for continued social reforms.

Laird has recently completed eight years of service as the California Secretary for Natural Resources, which he did because of his strong interest and experience in advocating for environmental issues. Over the course of his career, Laird has been a leading voice on environmental issues, including advocating for the establishment of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, addressing the dwindling water supply, and responding to the frequent wildfires. Prior to his Secretarial appointment, Laird served two terms as the Mayor of Santa Cruz, sat on the Santa Cruz City Council, was the Executive Director of the Santa Cruz AIDS Project, taught environmental policy at UC Santa Cruz, and held a seat in the State Assembly for three terms. Laird was prolific in the Assembly, authoring 82 bills that were signed into law.

Laird is running against Maria Cadenas (D), John Nevill (D), and Vicki Nohrden (R) for this open seat. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Laird is a noteworthy progressive choice because of his track record of public service, and his commitment to important regional issues like environmental protections and education reform.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By: California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California League of Conservation Voters , California Nurses Association , California Teachers Association , Equality California , National Union of Healthcare Workers , SEIU CA , Sierra Club California , United Domestic Workers

Democrat

Maria Cadenas

Website

Maria Cadenas was born in Mexico, and moved to California with her family when she was 11. According to campaign materials she is running for State Senate because she wants to find innovative solutions to problems that plague our communities socially and environmentally.

Cadenas currently supports families through her work with Santa Cruz Community Ventures, which provides a variety of social supports, including seeking to create a college savings account for every child born in Santa Cruz County, reducing college debt, and providing resources for immigrant families. Cadenas does this work to ensure that vulnerable members of her community have access to crucial resources. She has worked as the Associate Director of the ACLU of Wisconsin, fought to protect LGBTQ+ youth as the Executive Director of the Cream City Foundation, and supported career pipeline development through her work with Driscoll. Each of these roles have provided Cadenas with the opportunity to provide access and opportunity to underserved populations.

Cadenas is running against John Laird (D), John Nevill (D), and Vicki Nohrden (R) for this open seat. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Cadenas is a noteworthy progressive choice because of her demonstrated interest in complex progressive issues like reducing college debt, supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and working to provide resources to immigrant families.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Maria Cadenas was born in Mexico, and moved to California with her family when she was 11. According to campaign materials she is running for State Senate because she wants to find innovative solutions to problems that plague our communities socially and environmentally.

Cadenas currently supports families through her work with Santa Cruz Community Ventures, which provides a variety of social supports, including seeking to create a college savings account for every child born in Santa Cruz County, reducing college debt, and providing resources for immigrant families. Cadenas does this work to ensure that vulnerable members of her community have access to crucial resources. She has worked as the Associate Director of the ACLU of Wisconsin, fought to protect LGBTQ+ youth as the Executive Director of the Cream City Foundation, and supported career pipeline development through her work with Driscoll. Each of these roles have provided Cadenas with the opportunity to provide access and opportunity to underserved populations.

Cadenas is running against John Laird (D), John Nevill (D), and Vicki Nohrden (R) for this open seat. According to recent election results, Democrats usually win this seat. Cadenas is a noteworthy progressive choice because of her demonstrated interest in complex progressive issues like reducing college debt, supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and working to provide resources to immigrant families.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Santa Clara County, District 3

Depending on where you live, you may have the below county-districted races on your ballot.

Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, District 3

There are three well-qualified candidates in this race who have received broad support from progressive advocates: Kansen Chu, Magdalena Carrasco, and Otto Lee. After extensive research, we believe they are all good choices. Read the full descriptions below to find the candidate which best fits your values and priorities for Santa Clara County Board of Supervisor, District 3.

Non-Partisan

Kansen Chu

Website

Kansen Chu is from Taiwan and moved to the United States in 1976. According to campaign materials, he is running for Santa Clara Board of Supervisors to bring government, business, local community leaders, and organizations together to solve critical issues.

Kansen Chu currently serves in the State Assembly, where he works to promote economic development, increase access to quality education, and advance environmental preservations. While in the State Assembly, Chu has used his position as Chair of the Health and Human Services committee to ensure vulnerable communities have access to efficient support services. Chu has fought to improve child welfare programs, the foster care system, and other support services such as Cal-Works and Cal-Fresh. Chu has also worked as an electronics engineer and served on the San Jose City Council and Berryessa School Board.

Kansen Chu is running against Magdalena Carrasco, Otto Lee, and John Leyba for the open Board of Supervisors seat. In 2019, Chu scored a 98 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Kansen Chu has consistently shown great courage in standing up for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Kansen Chu is from Taiwan and moved to the United States in 1976. According to campaign materials, he is running for Santa Clara Board of Supervisors to bring government, business, local community leaders, and organizations together to solve critical issues.

Kansen Chu currently serves in the State Assembly, where he works to promote economic development, increase access to quality education, and advance environmental preservations. While in the State Assembly, Chu has used his position as Chair of the Health and Human Services committee to ensure vulnerable communities have access to efficient support services. Chu has fought to improve child welfare programs, the foster care system, and other support services such as Cal-Works and Cal-Fresh. Chu has also worked as an electronics engineer and served on the San Jose City Council and Berryessa School Board.

Kansen Chu is running against Magdalena Carrasco, Otto Lee, and John Leyba for the open Board of Supervisors seat. In 2019, Chu scored a 98 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of a legislator's progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Kansen Chu has consistently shown great courage in standing up for the needs of constituents and facing down corporate lobbyists and interest groups that exploit Californians.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Non-Partisan

Magdalena Carrasco

Website Endorsements

Magdalena Carrasco grew up in San Jose, CA. According to campaign materials, she is running for Santa Clara Board of Supervisors to be a voice for the voiceless and strengthen her community.

Carrasco currently serves on the San Jose City Council, which she does to improve the quality of life for the residents of East San Jose and the rest of the city. She has helped to pass the city’s Women’s Bill of Rights, which increased resources to support survivors of domestic abuse, as well as improved policies to combat human trafficking, and increased access to economic opportunities. Also, while on the city council, she has developed clean energy programs, promoted infrastructure improvements, increased access to affordable housing, been a champion for labor rights, and increased access to educational opportunities. Carrasco has also served as Vice Mayor of San Jose where she focused on increasing representation of women and people of color in all levels of government.

Carrasco is running against Kansen Chu, Otto Lee, and John Leyba candidate for the open Board of Supervisors seat. Carrasco stands out as a progressive choice because of her track record of successfully advancing progressive initiatives and increasing political representation in all levels of government.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Magdalena Carrasco grew up in San Jose, CA. According to campaign materials, she is running for Santa Clara Board of Supervisors to be a voice for the voiceless and strengthen her community.

Carrasco currently serves on the San Jose City Council, which she does to improve the quality of life for the residents of East San Jose and the rest of the city. She has helped to pass the city’s Women’s Bill of Rights, which increased resources to support survivors of domestic abuse, as well as improved policies to combat human trafficking, and increased access to economic opportunities. Also, while on the city council, she has developed clean energy programs, promoted infrastructure improvements, increased access to affordable housing, been a champion for labor rights, and increased access to educational opportunities. Carrasco has also served as Vice Mayor of San Jose where she focused on increasing representation of women and people of color in all levels of government.

Carrasco is running against Kansen Chu, Otto Lee, and John Leyba candidate for the open Board of Supervisors seat. Carrasco stands out as a progressive choice because of her track record of successfully advancing progressive initiatives and increasing political representation in all levels of government.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Non-Partisan

Otto Lee

Website Endorsements

Otto Lee is from Hong Kong and immigrated to California at 15 years old with his family. According to campaign materials, he is running for Santa Clara Board of Supervisors to continue his public service and to use his experience to address challenges his community faces, such as the increased cost of housing and traffic congestion.

Lee is an intellectual property attorney, where he fosters economic development by protecting the rights’ of innovators. Lee has served on the Sunnyvale Planning Commission, the Sunnyvale City Council, and as Mayor, where he championed environmental issues such as banning single-use plastic bags, successfully promoting solar energy, and ensuring that development projects are environmentally sustainable. He has also served as a Democratic National Committee member and in the US Navy, where he received the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal for his honorable service.

Otto Lee is running against Kansen Chu, Magdalena Carrasco, and John Leyba for the open Board of Supervisors seat. Lee stands out as a progressive choice because of his strong environmental track record and his vision to address issues that directly impact his community, such as the rising unhoused population and the need to invest in sustainable infrastructure.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Otto Lee is from Hong Kong and immigrated to California at 15 years old with his family. According to campaign materials, he is running for Santa Clara Board of Supervisors to continue his public service and to use his experience to address challenges his community faces, such as the increased cost of housing and traffic congestion.

Lee is an intellectual property attorney, where he fosters economic development by protecting the rights’ of innovators. Lee has served on the Sunnyvale Planning Commission, the Sunnyvale City Council, and as Mayor, where he championed environmental issues such as banning single-use plastic bags, successfully promoting solar energy, and ensuring that development projects are environmentally sustainable. He has also served as a Democratic National Committee member and in the US Navy, where he received the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal for his honorable service.

Otto Lee is running against Kansen Chu, Magdalena Carrasco, and John Leyba for the open Board of Supervisors seat. Lee stands out as a progressive choice because of his strong environmental track record and his vision to address issues that directly impact his community, such as the rising unhoused population and the need to invest in sustainable infrastructure.

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

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Statewide Ballot Measures

Proposition #13

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.

Last updated: 2023-04-05

Endorsed By California Democratic Party , California Federation of Teachers , California Teachers Association , Stonewall Democratic Club

Mark Stone

29th Assembly District

Congress