How to Vote on March 5, 2024 in CA!
Here is my list of recommendations for California’s primary election on March 5, 2024.
First, I’d like to briefly share how/where to vote, and highlight the following race: my friend Fidencio Gallardo is running for the School Board in Los Angeles. I wrote about him in another post called “Vote for Fidencio Gallardo for LAUSD School Board, District 5.” He is an amazing candidate, please vote for him!
HOW TO CAST YOUR BALLOT
First, make sure you’re registered to vote…
According to LAist:
“You can check to see if you are registered on the California Secretary of State's website. You can also call (800) 345-VOTE (8683) or email elections@sos.ca.gov. You may be registered and not even realize it. Since the New Motor Voter Act launched in 2018, eligible adults who visit the DMV for a new license or other services are automatically registered to vote, unless they opt out.”
But don’t worry if you missed the deadline!
Even if you failed to register to vote by the Feb. 20th deadline, you can still cast a provisional ballot! According to LAist:
“You can do same-day registration at any vote center in your county once they open, all the way up to and including Election Day. L.A. County in-person voting began [at] polling sites on Feb. 24. You can find Vote Centers here. If you register to vote after Feb. 20, that means you will register "conditionally" and will cast a provisional ballot. Provisional ballots are placed in pink envelopes, secured for processing, and counted after election officials have confirmed your voter information.”
Registered and ready to vote?
In California…
1) You can vote by mail.
After you seal and sign your ballot, you can put it in the mail (no postage is required). Just make sure it’s postmarked on or by March 5, 2024.
2) You can vote via Drop Box.
After you seal and sign your ballot, you can deposit it in any official drop box before 8 p.m. on March 5, 2024. To find your nearest one, go to caearlyvoting.sos.ca.gov.
3) You can vote in person.
If you lost your vote-by-mail ballot, need assistance, or just like voting in person, this is a great option. Like LAist says, "At vote centers, you'll be able to get help in multiple languages, use accessible voting machines, register to vote, make changes to your voter registration, and more.” To find your nearest vote center and their hours, go here: www.vote.org/polling-place-locator.
For more information, you can text “VOTE” to GOVOTE (468-8683) or call the Secretary of State’s hotline at (800) 345-VOTE
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED VOTING GUIDES
My guide favors Southern California, specifically Los Angeles, where I live. For more information (since I wasn’t able to cover every race), here are some excellent voting guides. For additional resources, please scroll to the bottom (or you can click this link to jump to the end).
Blue Voter Guide (a blue guide for any election in the U.S.)
Vote411 (a non-partisan guide for any election in the U.S.)
Cal Matters (a blue guide for any election in CA)
LAist (a non-partisan guide for any election in Los Angeles)
MY VOTING RECOMMENDATIONS
I start by providing a quick cheat sheet / list of endorsements. For more detailed explanations of why I support these candidates, alternative suggestions, and my sources, keep scrolling. As always, I welcome input. Let me know if you disagree! One asterisk indicates a race where I’ve changed my mind. Two asterisks indicates that my endorsement has caveats and/or explanations. Again, you will need to scroll down to see why. (Or, if you can click on the links in the headers to skip ahead.)
It is important to note that I WILL CONTINUE TO UPDATE THIS VOTING GUIDE UP UNTIL THE DAY OF THE ELECTION. This allows me time to make corrections, add new information that has come to light, address any scandals that may have erupted, and/or add candidates that I wasn’t able to research before I first published my guide. This is why I personally choose to wait to vote on election day. But I publish my guide as soon as possible to give people more time to read it, and the chance to vote early if they want. Please let me know if you have any questions!
FEDERAL
PRESIDENT: JOE BIDEN
U.S. SENATE**
U.S. SENATOR: ADAM SCHIFF or KATIE PORTER or BARBARA LEE
(VOTE TWICE: FOR SHORT & LONG TERM POSITIONS)
PROPOSITIONS**
MEASURE 1: NO
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES**
DISTRICT 11: NANCY PELOSI
DISTRICT 23: DEREK MARSHALL
DISTRICT 26: JULIA BROWNLEY
DISTRICT 27: GEORGE WHITESIDES
DISTRICT 28: JUDY CHU
DISTRICT 29: LUZ RIVAS
DISTRICT 30: LAURA FRIEDMAN
DISTRICT 32: BRAD SHERMAN or CHRISTOPHER AHUJA
DISTRICT 34: JIMMY GOMEZ
DISTRICT 35: NORMA J. TORRES
DISTRICT 36: TED LIEU
DISTRICT 43: MAXINE WATERS
DISTRICT 44: NANETTE DIAZ BARRAGAN
DISTRICT 45: KIM NGUYEN-PENALOZA
STATE SENATE & ASSEMBLY**
CA STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 23: KIPP MUELLER
CA STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 25: SASHA RENÉE PÉREZ
CA STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 27: HENRY STERN
CA STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 31: MARY ANN LUTZ
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 40: PILAR SCHIAVO
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 41: JOHN HARABEDIAN or JED LEANO
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 42: JACQUI IRWIN**
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 44: STEVE PIERSON
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 48: BRIAN CALDERÓN TABATABAI
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 49: MIKE FONG
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 52: JESSICA CALOZA or DAVID GIRÓN
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 54: MARK GONZALEZ or JOHN YI
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 55: ISAAC BRYAN
LOS ANGELES (CITY & COUNTY)**
L.A. COUNTY DISTRICT ATORNEY: GEORGE GASCÓN
L.A. COUNTY SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 2: HOLLY MITCHELL
L.A. COUNTY SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 4: JANICE HAHN
L.A. COUNTY SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 5: CHRIS HOLDEN or KONSTANTINE ANTHONY
LAUSD SCHOOL BOARD**
L.A. SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 1: SHERLETT HENDY NEWBILL
L.A. SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 3: SCOTT SCHMERELSON
L.A. SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 5: FIDENCIO GALLARDO
L.A. SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 7: TANYA ORTIZ FRANKLIN
GUSD SCHOOL BOARD**
GLENDALE SCHOOL BOARD, AREA A: TELLY TSE
GLENDALE SCHOOL BOARD, AREA E: NEDA FARID
GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL**
GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL: Pick two… ARDY KASSAKHIAN and KAREN KWAK
LOS ANGELES CITY COUNCIL**
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 2: ADRIN NAZARIAN
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 4: NITHYA RAMAN
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 6: IMELDA PADILLA
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 8: MARQUEECE HARRIS DAWSON
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 10: EDDIE ANDERSON
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 12: SERENA OBERSTEIN
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 14: YSABEL JURADO
LOS ANGELES CITY & COUNTY MEASURES
L.A. MEASURE HLA: YES
SUPERIOR COURT
OFFICE NO. 12: RHONDA A. HAYMON
OFFICE NO. 39: GEORGE A. TURNER
OFFICE NO. 48: ERIKA J. WILEY
OFFICE NO. 93: NATASHA KHAMASHTA* (WRITE-IN CANDIDATE)
OFFICE NO. 97: SHARON RANSOM
OFFICE NO. 115: CHRISTMAS BROOKENS
OFFICE NO. 124: KIMBERLY REPECKA
OFFICE NO. 130: CHRISTOPHER DARDEN
OFFICE NO. 135: GEORGIA HUERTA
OFFICE NO. 137: LUZ HERRERA
DEMOCRATIC COUNTY CENTRAL COMMITTEE**
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 40: Vote for these 7… DAVID HYMAN, ANDREW TABAN, MICHELLE ELMER, BETTY DOUMAS-TOTO, LYNNE PLAMBECK, JACK KAYAJIAN, and MICHELLE CAMPBELL
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 41: Vote for these 6… KENNETH ARMSTRONG, TODD JONES, KIM BOWMAN, KAREN SUAREZ, KATHY PATTERSON and PATRICE MARSHALL MCKENZIE
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 44: Vote for these 7… CAROLYN M. HOFF, SHANNA INGELSBEE, ALTON F. REED, JOYCE M. RUBIN, BONNIE SHATUN, JERILYN V. STAPLETON and ANALISA SWAN
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 52: Vote for these 7… JESSICA CRAVEN, KOREEN CEA, NICOLAS GARDNER SERNA, DR. ROCIO RIVAS, JEANINE ROHN, MIA LIVAS PORTER and LUIS LOPEZ
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 54: Vote for these 4… SARA HERNANDEZ, ESTHER LIM, JOHN YI and CARLOS MONTES
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 55: There are two slates to choose from. See below.
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 65: Vote for these 7… JANA ABULABAN, CRYSTAL LA TOYA FAIRELY, JENNIFER FLORES, CARRIE SCOVILLE, FARAZ RIZVI, TIFFANIE NOELLE SMITH and FATIMA IQBAL-ZUBAIR
WHY I RECOMMEND THESE CANDIDATES
This primary election was tricky for me because in several cases, I found myself choosing between equally viable Democrats. Whenever possible, I’ve tried to include some of the alternative options, using multiple voting guides along the left-wing spectrum. Feel free to check my sources and draw your own conclusions!
MY BACKGROUND / QUALIFICATIONS
As I’ve said elsewhere, “WTF Should You Listen To Me?” I’ve never claimed to be a political expert or journalist. I’m simply a concerned mother / voter who started doing this research years ago, to fill out my own ballots. Then I started sharing my recommendations with others, who said they found my research helpful. If you don’t agree with me, that’s totally fine. I cite all my sources, so that you can make your own informed decisions.
In addition to voting guides, I also occasionally write about political candidates or issues, like this piece I wrote in 2018 about the impending UTLA strike that went semi-viral: “What More Do Teachers Want? Why are They Striking?”
As for my political beliefs, I describe them as such in my bio: “I’m a lifelong Democrat, feminist, pro-choice, pro-universal health care, pro-environment, pro-public education, and anti-racist. I believe in VOTING BLUE.”
That said, I will never blindly vote for a blue slate, regardless of whether it’s recommended by the Democratic Party, DSA, or anyone else. I research every single candidate on the left and judge them each by their own merit.
U.S. PRESIDENT: JOE BIDEN
This one was easy. And I say that as someone who did not vote for Biden in the primary in 2020. Yet for all his flaws, he has proven to be an extremely smart, capable president during dangerous, uncertain times. As Courage California’s Progressive Voter Guide puts it, we need to “Re-elect President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to keep America on track… [They] have a track record and policy positions that demonstrate that they will continue to govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse nation.” Not to mention that Biden is running against Trump, who is toxic, hateful, and fascist. As Margaret Sullivan at The Guardian warns, “[Trump has] already told us, many times over – and in abundantly clear terms – what he will do with a second term. He’ll prosecute his perceived enemies with the full power of the government. He’ll call out the military to put down citizen protest. He’ll never allow a fair election again.” So it is vital that we vote for Biden this year. We can’t afford to do otherwise.
U.S. SENATOR: ADAM SCHIFF or KATIE PORTER or BARBARA LEE
(VOTE TWICE: FOR SHORT & LONG TERM POSITIONS)
1) WHY DO I HAVE TO VOTE TWICE?
We are voting twice because one is a special election and the other is for a full term in the Senate. As the LA Times explains, “One question asks voters to fill the remainder of the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s term, which… is currently occupied by gubernatorial appointee Laphonza Butler... The other question asks Californians to pick their choice for a full six-year term.”
2) WHY DO I SEE THREE NAMES?
Because you can pick whichever one you want, and it will be ok. First of all, we have three amazing candidates: Reps. Adam Schiff, Katie Porter, and Barbara Lee. Secondly, no matter who you choose, there will be a runoff in November. As the LA Times explains, “Under California’s open primary system, the two candidates who receive the most votes in the primary advance to the general election regardless of party or whether either wins a majority.” According to the polls, Schiff is currently ahead, Porter is tied for second place with GOP candidate Steve Garvey, and Lee is behind. So, right now, the two most likely scenarios are that Schiff will face off against the Republican (Garvey) or a fellow Democrat (probably Porter), in the general election in November.
3) OK BUT SERIOUSLY, WHO ARE YOU VOTING FOR?
All I will say is this… I have always prided myself on supporting women candidates whenever possible, especially when they are women of color. But I truly mean it when I say it’s just as valid to choose Schiff. Don’t worry, though, I get why you might still be agonizing over this decision. Trust me, when I heard I was going to have to choose between these three options, it felt like I was being asked which parent I wanted to live with during a divorce. But rest assured! You really, truly can choose whichever one you want. They are all amazing.
ADAM SCHIFF:
“Schiff… stands out for his extraordinary leadership over the last several years in helping to protect the nation’s institutions, the rule of law and American democracy itself from former President Trump. Given the increasingly authoritarian statements from Donald Trump, the possibility he could return to the White House and the Republican Party’s lockstep loyalty to him, the Senate needs Schiff, a battle-tested and thoughtful leader who has demonstrated he can rise to the moment.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-14/endorsement-adam-schiff-for-the-u-s-senate)
He is endorsed by Reps. Nancy Pelosi, Judy Chu and Ted Lieu, United Farm Workers, California Labor Federation (AFL CIO), Sierra Forward, East Area Progressive Democrats, Glendale Democratic Club, La Opinión and the LA Times.
“Katie was first elected to the U.S. Congress in 2018, when she flipped a seat that had always been held by Republicans. She won re-election in 2020 and again in 2022, and was the top performing Democrat in her Orange County district. In Congress, Katie is known for using her whiteboard to hold those with power accountable. From Big Bank CEOs to Trump Administration officials, Katie’s used her whiteboard to show: How corporate greed is driving inflation. How Big Pharma is overcharging families. How Wall Street is taking advantage of consumers and taxpayers. Her questioning has led to real solutions for families, including a commitment from the Trump Administration in March 2020 that COVID testing would be free for every American, as well as new laws based on bills she wrote to crack down on corporate greed and lower costs for families.” (Source: https://katieporter.com)
She is endorsed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Rep. Robert Garcia, and the National Union of Healthcare Workers.
“Barbara Lee came out for a ceasefire loud and early, on the latest iteration of a long, consistent record of brave, progressive stances on foreign policy. This record famously includes casting the sole vote against the disastrous 2001 Authorization for the Use of Military Force… as well as opposing the nightmarish Patriot Act, pushing to end the sadistic embargo of Cuba, and more. She’s also been a stalwart progressive on domestic issues, supporting the Green New Deal and Medicare for All.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
She is endorsed by Rep. Maxine Waters, Mayor Karen Bass, the Harvey Lee Democratic Club and Ground Game LA.
***CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO THE TOP***
PROPOSITION
MEASURE 1 (BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES PROGRAM): NO
[UPDATE: The following paragraph has been edited and Cal Matters quote expanded, to acknowledge that Prop. 1 includes passing a bond as well. A huge thanks to my activist friend Sara Roos for calling this to my attention.]
A lot of people on the left are in disagreement about whether or not Prop 1 is good. Which confused me, at first, because I couldn’t understand why funding mental health services could possibly be controversial. But the more I read about it, the more issues I found. For me, the clincher was learning that Prop 1 doesn’t provide any additional funds for behavioral health services. It just mandates that counties allocate existing funds in a very specific, rigid way, while asking voters to pass a $6.4 billion bond that will be spent primarily on building private behavioral health facilities. It then authorizes involuntary treatment at those same facilities, in ways that could potentially violate people’s civil liberties. But I’ve included some of the arguments in favor of Prop. 1 below, as well, so that you can decide for yourself.
Source: Cal Matters
“Prop. 1 wipes out what [mental health advocates have] fought for and accomplished over the last 20 years. In 2004, we collaboratively wrote the Mental Health Services Act, or MHSA… and it passed. For the first time in California history, the public mental health system had a dedicated funding source for the services we wanted and designed – and it exceeded what Medi-Cal covered. Currently, the MHSA is controlled at the community level. Counties receive funds based on formulas with few restrictions and are required to design programs and spend the funds by involving people living with serious mental illness and their families, including those from marginalized communities. The MHSA funds highly effective and unique services, such as peer support where people who have recovered from serious mental illness act as providers for each other… Now comes Prop. 1, which was crafted behind closed doors and all but decimates the MHSA with a plethora of new state mandates and top-down control. Hidden behind the campaign slogan “treatment not tents” are devastating cuts to voluntary mental health services for the most severely mentally ill and an unprecedented giveaway of taxpayer money to build privatized facilities… It’s simply not possible to expand services while slashing their funding. Prop. 1 provides no new funding for behavioral health services, which means there’s nothing to plug the new gaps it’ll create. Instead, it pilfers voluntary services to subsidize a new empire of private behavioral health facilities. Prop. 1 shifts almost a billion dollars a year out of services and into “housing interventions,” which will “sustain the necessary treatment centers” built under the companion bond. But that doesn’t necessarily mean new homes. Of the $6.4 billion bond, $4.4 billion is designated for an infrastructure program with grants for private businesses to build clinical treatment facilities they will operate. With interest, the bond costs could be 60% more over their lifetime, which deserves consideration when the state faces the worst budget deficit since the Great Recession.”
Source: League of Women Voters
“Although California has a critical need to resource better mental health and addiction services and to address our crisis of homelessness, the League of Women Voters of California opposes Proposition 1 for a number of important reasons… The bond portion of the measure was rushed through the legislature with last-minute amendments that opened the door to funding involuntary treatment in locked facilities. The rushed nature of these amendments precluded substantive debate and ignored arguments from diverse community-based organizations and health care and civil rights advocates. These groups contend that community-based care is more effective than institutionalization and that incentivizing institutionalization will both lead to worse health outcomes and curtail individual liberties. Furthermore, Prop 1 does not increase the overall funding for mental health services for counties – the bond money is to build treatment units and supportive housing. Under the changes this measure makes… more of the money received by counties must be used for housing of a certain group of patients and for intensive, personalized support services… This reallocation reduces the funds available for other mental health services that counties currently offer to patients, like treatment, crisis response, and outreach. It has the overall effect of reducing counties’ ability to set priorities based on local needs for mental health services.”
Voting NO on this proposition is endorsed by CalMatters, League of Women Voters of California, Ground Game LA, Action Cali, Cal Voices, Disability Rights California, and Mental Health America of California.
Source: LA Times
“Proposition 1 on the March 5 ballot won’t help the vast majority of the approximately 180,000 Californians living on the street, nor even most of the estimated one-third with serious psychiatric illnesses, substance use problems or both. It’s important to say that upfront, because the “Treatment not Tents” campaign urging a “yes” vote could leave voters with the impression that the measure offers a far more sweeping solution to homelessness and inadequate behavioral health treatment than it does. But better to get too few new resources than none at all. When compared with the cost of doing nothing, Proposition 1 is an important step forward in meeting California’s responsibility to the most vulnerable homeless people and those housed Californians with behavioral health problems most at risk of ending up on the street. It is a worthy addition to other state, local and private investments, and it warrants support.”
Voting YES on this proposition is endorsed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, East Area Progressive Democrats and the LA Times.
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
DISTRICT 11: NANCY PELOSI
The choice is easy here, because it’s Nancy Fucking Pelosi.
DISTRICT 23: DEREK MARSHALL
The choice is easy here, because Derek Marshall is the only viable Democrat running.
“This deeply conservative district — covering the communities of Victorville, Barstow, and Joshua Tree — is unlikely to elect a Democrat in 2024. But progressive candidate Derek Marshall is running a campaign to build a lasting progressive movement in the high desert. His support for a ceasefire in Gaza and his advocacy for Climate Justice, Medicare for All, and LGBTQ+ rights makes him the clear choice in this race over MAGA-supporting incumbent Jay Obernolte.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
He is endorsed by HONOR PAC, Center for Biological Diversity, and Ground Game LA.
DISTRICT 26: JULIA BROWNLEY
Almost everyone on the left agrees that Julia Brownley is the best option because she is the incumbent and the only viable Democrat running, against a Republican and a conservative Democrat. However, Ground Game LA has chosen to abstain because she “refused to call for a ceasefire in Gaza.”
“Julia was elected to Congress in 2012 and has been focusing on… bringing down healthcare costs, making higher education more affordable, preserving and protecting our environment, making sure our veterans receive the services they deserve, protecting Social Security and Medicare, and ensuring equality for all. As the leading Democrat on the Veterans’ Affairs Health Subcommittee, Julia worked.. to get a bill signed into law that will expand our local veterans community clinic by nearly seven times its original size... As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, she was able to pass a surface transportation bill that will provide more funds to invest in our crumbling infrastructure. She has also been a consistent advocate for women and working families, including fighting to close the wage gap, raise the minimum wage, and expand job training and education assistance… Some of her bills signed into law with bipartisan support include legislation to… evaluate which suicide prevention and mental health programs best serve women veterans, help more veterans succeed in the job market after their service, and ensure equitable funding for the Port of Hueneme.” (Source: https://juliabrownley.com)
She is endorsed by Senator Alex Padilla, CA Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, California Labor Federation, EMILY’s List, Equality California, Planned Parenthood Action Fund and United Farm Workers of America.
DISTRICT 27: GEORGE WHITESIDES
Almost everyone on the left agrees that George Whitesides is the best option in this swing district, with the exception of Ground Game LA which disparages him for being the “anointed… moderate” and recommends a “protest vote” for “comedian, appraiser, and atheist/satanist Steve Hill.” Considering that Whitesides is running against Mike Garcia, a far-right, Trump-endorsed Republican who has already won two very close elections in this district, that seems reckless and ill-advised.
“George Whitesides has spent his career solving problems. Over the past 20 years, he has helped lead NASA to new heights, created hundreds of quality jobs in the Antelope Valley, and supported front-line responders and public health through his work on the wildfire crisis. George worked on President Obama’s transition team in 2008, and then served as Chief of Staff for NASA for the Obama administration… George was the first CEO of Virgin Galactic, the human spaceflight company founded by Richard Branson. He grew the company over a decade from a small team to the global aerospace firm it is today, creating 700 jobs in the Antelope Valley and flying the first woman to space on a commercial space vehicle. George co-founded Megafire Action, the first organization dedicated to solving our nation’s megafire crisis… George co-chaired the Antelope Valley Covid-19 Task Force, an ad hoc group that brought together NASA, industry, local government and the Antelope Valley College to support front line nurses and doctors, for which George received NASA’s Exceptional Public Achievement Medal… George was awarded the Partners in Educational Excellence Award by the Antelope Valley Union High School District for his work supporting underprivileged students.” (Source: https://www.georgewhitesides.com)
He is endorsed by Sen. Alex Padilla, Reps. Nancy Pelosi & Judy Chu, CA Democratic Party, California Teachers Association, Stonewall Democratic Club, and California Environmental Voters.
DISTRICT 28: JUDY CHU
The choice is easy here, because Judy Chu is the best, and only viable Democrat running.
“Democratic representative Judy Chu — who represents Pasadena, Alhambra, and nearby cities — supports a ceasefire in Gaza, Medicare for All, and citizenship for undocumented immigrants, among other progressive positions.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
She is endorsed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, Reps. Adam Schiff, Ted Lieu, and Maxine Waters, Mayor Karen Bass, California Labor Federation, California Teachers Association, East Area Progressive Democrats and Ground Game LA.
DISTRICT 29: LUZ RIVAS
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support in this race, but I’ve chosen Luz Rivas, because she seems much more experienced. She is running against Angélica Dueñas, who I would love to support, based on her progressive ideals. But I just can’t get past the fact that she was a campaign coordinator for Jill Stein. In my opinion, supporting a non-viable candidate during a critical election is a dealbreaker. However, I’ve included information about both options below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Luz Rivas is an engineer, educator and public servant from the San Fernando Valley…. [Her] parents immigrated from Mexico. She grew up in Pacoima with a single mother that worked multiple jobs to support her daughters. Initially, the family rented a room in a house, and later lived in a converted garage and back houses throughout the Valley… After high school, Luz attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. After college she worked as an electrical engineer for Motorola. Her passion to get kids interested in engineering led her to pursue a Master of Education degree from Harvard University… [She is] the founder of DIY (Do it Yourself) Girls, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping girls in the San Fernando Valley become interested in science and engineering... Since 2018, Luz has served in the California State Legislature representing the 43rd Assembly District. During Luz’s time in the Assembly, her priority has been to uplift and empower underrepresented communities. She has been successful as a leader in delivering substantive policy and has been recognized for her leadership by labor unions… and community organizations. Luz has advocated for environmental justice through her role as the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources. Luz was elected by her peers to serve as Chair of the Los Angeles County Legislative Delegation.” (Source: https://www.luzforcongress.com)
She is endorsed by Senator Alex Padilla, Mayor Karen Bass, Reps. Tony Cardenas, Adam Schiff and Judy Chu, California Labor Federation, Stonewall Democratic Club, California Environmental Voters, Climate Hawks Vote, Equality California, EMILYs List, and East Area Progressive Democrats.
“Representative Tony Cárdenas, who has represented this district for over 10 years, surprised all by announcing his retirement late in 2023. Less shocking, however, was his immediate endorsement of a preferred successor, Assemblywoman Luz Rivas… While Rivas has compiled a decent record in the Assembly, we question the priorities of a politician who continues to take contributions from big corporations like Amazon, Airbnb, AT&T, and Facebook... Fortunately, voters have a superb option in Angélica Dueñas, who gave Cárdenas a stiff challenge in 2020 and 2022, and was already in the race when Cárdenas announced his retirement. Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, Dueñas is running a grassroots progressive campaign, taking no corporate donations. She supports a ceasefire in Gaza, housing as a human right, Medicare for All, criminal justice reform, and other progressive policy positions. She also is raising five children who attend LAUSD schools. Republican Benito Bernal is also in the race. Vote Dueñas.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
She is endorsed by LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia, Former Mayor Konstantine Anthony, Feel the Bern Democratic Club SFV, California Progressive Alliance, Action Cali, and Ground Game LA.
DISTRICT 30: LAURA FRIEDMAN
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support in this race, but I’ve chosen Laura Friedman, because she is a highly accomplished, progressive woman. However, I’ve included some alternate candidates below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Among the 15 candidates hoping to fill the seat being vacated by Rep. Adam Schiff… are five Democrats with experience in elected office… The differences are in their accomplishments. And by that measure, Friedman is the clear choice for the U.S. House of Representatives. Friedman, a state legislator and former Glendale City Council member… has built a reputation as a smart, thoughtful and principled policymaker who takes on difficult issues — such as the severe lack of housing, unsafe streets and climate change — to solve problems, not to earn political points. In just a few recent examples, she has gotten controversial but meaningful legislation passed to ban the use of potable water on purely ornamental landscaping [and] prohibit the use of “forever chemicals” in baby products. Many of her bills have run into opposition from constituents and colleagues opposed to growth or afraid of upsetting the status quo. Rather than caving to these pressures, Friedman digs in, fine-tunes the details and works to build support until the legislation finally passes. This persistence is how… we expect she will be able to accomplish things in a divided Congress. She has shown leadership, most notably during the #MeToo movement when she was appointed chair of a subcommittee that significantly improved the Legislature‘s sexual harassment policies.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-19/endorsement-laura-friedman-for-congress-shes-the-best-successor-to-adam-schiff)
She is endorsed by Rep. Judy Chu, City Councilmember Nithya Raman, Feminists in Action, and the LA Times.
“We are proud to endorse Anthony Portantino for Congress, on stopping gun violence and supporting LGBTQ+ equality, he has accomplished much to make our lives better and our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods safer.” (Hans Johnson, East Area Progressive Democrats). (Source: https://www.anthonyportantino.com/endorsements)
He is endorsed by the Attorney General Rob Bonta, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, California Federation of Teachers, and East Area Progressive Democrats.
“Mike Feuer’s extraordinary devotion to public service [was] proven… by successfully challenging the Trump Administration, the National Rifle Association, Wells Fargo and other powerful interests—as Majority Policy Leader of the California Assembly, the L.A. City Attorney, an L.A. City Council member and the Director of Bet Tzedek Legal Services, the House of Justice, fighting for the rights of 50,000 seniors, families and people with disabilities. To defend democracy, Mike took on Trump again and again, playing a key role in challenging Trump’s efforts to undermine the Census and DACA and defeating the Trump Administration’s attempts to make LAPD complicit in civil immigration enforcement. In the face of national Republican voter suppression efforts, Mike wrote California’s same day voter registration law. With America reeling from a gun violence epidemic, Mike has written numerous groundbreaking gun safety laws, co-founded and co-chaired America’s first coalition of prosecutors focused on preventing gun violence, convened experts to make schools safer, led efforts to disarm domestic abusers and presented gun violence prevention strategies to governors, mayors and lawmakers at the White House.” (Source: https://mikefeuerforcongress.com)
He is endorsed by Mayor Karen Bass, Reps. Jimmy Gomez and Salud Carbajal, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg (one of her dual endorsements), Giffords Courage to Fight Gun Violence, and Greenpeace.
“Maebe A. Girl, making her third run for a version of this seat, is a vocal and unapologetic progressive, and she came out early and strong for a ceasefire in Gaza. She has also been energetic in the local community as a neighborhood council member and an activist, and would make history as the first transgender, nonbinary member of Congress. She is the best, most progressive candidate in the field. We have recommended her before, and we have no reservations in doing so again.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
She is endorsed by former Mayor of Culver City Dr. Daniel Lee, Presidential Candidate Marianne Williamson, and Ground Game L.A.
DISTRICT 32: BRAD SHERMAN or CHRISTOPHER AHUJA
There is disagreement on the left regarding who to support, because there are so many candidates running. Brad Sherman is the more experienced incumbent and champions the environment, but has said offensive, inflammatory things about Pro-Palestine protestors. Christopher Ahuja is much more progressive, but has never held office in any position higher than Neighborhood Council. I’ve included both candidates below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Congressman Brad Sherman was born and raised in southern California… [He] is currently serving his thirteenth term in Congress and has served in the House of Representatives since 1997. Congressman Sherman currently serves on three major House Committees. He is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, a senior member of the House Financial Services Committee, and a member of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee… He has worked to craft and advance priorities such as robust environmental standards, federal aid to education, real healthcare reform, and the protection of Social Security and Medicare. The Congressman has also supported policies to expand U.S. exports, prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons, and promote a just and effective U.S. foreign policy… Early in his congressional career, while serving on the House Budget Committee in 1997, Congressman Sherman authored an amendment to the annual Budget Resolution providing an additional $700 million for the acquisition of environmentally important lands in FY ‘98. The Sherman Amendment was included in the Joint Budget Resolution and effectuated by a $699 million appropriation. Sherman also secured $20 million to acquire land and to complete the Backbone Trail through the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.” (Source: https://bradsherman.com)
He is endorsed by Governor Gavin Newsom, Senator Alex Padilla, CA State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, Reps. Judy Chu, Ro Khanna, Barbara Lee, Ted Lieu, Katie Porter, Adam Schiff, and Maxine Waters, Community Leader Loraine Lundquist, California Democratic Party, Equality California, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, EnviroVoters, and the Sierra Club.
“Brad Sherman’s career of mediocrity took a particularly dark turn in this most recent term [when he chose] to slander Jewish pro-Palestine protesters as [“pro-terrorist”]. While he claims to be an environmentalist, Sherman has been fighting (on behalf of wealthy Bel Air NIMBYs) against a subway line connecting the Valley and the West Side, throwing his own working class constituents under the bus. We recommend a vote for Christopher Ahuja. He supports Medicare for All, family and medical leave, making public colleges free for all students, and creating a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
He is endorsed by DSA-LA, Feel the Bern Democratic Club, Action Cali, and Ground Game LA.
DISTRICT 34: JIMMY GOMEZ
I am simply going to repeat here what I said in 2022, because it is just as true now: There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support in this race. I’m personally in favor of re-electing incumbent Jimmy Gomez because he has accrued some really valuable experience in Congress and is on several key committees. I understand the appeal of supporting his challenger David Kim, but I’m not convinced he is the right person for the job. Still, I’ve included Kim’s information below so that you can decide for yourself.
“Housing is a human right and Jimmy has a long history and voting record to back up his conviction that everyone deserves access to affordable housing. In 2021, he helped extend the eviction moratorium by protesting & sleeping on the Capitol steps. As a son of immigrants, Jimmy knows that immigration and diversity contributes to the fabric of this country and makes us better. In 2022 alone, Jimmy secured $20 million in federal funding for citizenship programs, a 100% increase. Climate change poses an imminent existential threat to humanity and that bold legislative actions are required. Jimmy is a cosponsor of the Green New Deal with Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and is the only candidate endorsed by CA EnviroVoters.” (Source: http://laist.votersedge.org/ca/en/election/2022-11-08/los-angeles-county/u.s.-house-of-representatives-district-34/jimmy-gomez)
I also heard from Suzy Gold, the CEO of HomeField, a voter outreach organization, who says:
“If you live in CD-34, I want to recommend voting for Jimmy Gomez for Congress. His upbringing as a child of immigrants can be seen everywhere in his policymaking. As a kid, Jimmy was hospitalized with pneumonia and his parents were told one of them would have to stay by his bedside, but both of his parents worked and missing days meant missing wages and the threat of being fired. This relatively small medical issue nearly bankrupted his family. In the CA Assembly, Jimmy authored the largest expansion of state-level Paid Family Leave which meant CA workers earned more when they had to take time off to care for loved ones. Obama called Jimmy’s expansion a model for federal paid family leave. In Congress, Jimmy helped craft the expansion of the Child Tax Credit which brought millions of kids out of poverty in 2021. He’s been on the forefront of tenant protections and joined Cori Bush in her incredible protest on the steps of Congress to extend the eviction moratorium. Jimmy Gomez is a special combo of policy wonk who knows how to get stuff done. I hope you’ll vote for him!”
He is endorsed by Sen. Alex Padilla, Rep. Ayanna Presley, Activist Dolores Huerta, CA Democratic Party, LA County Federation of Labor (AFL-CIO), EnviroVoters (formerly CLCV), Planned Parenthood Action Fund, End Citizens United, Equality California, and the California Teachers Association.
“Kim, a 36-year-old immigration attorney, is among a… crop of progressive… candidates who are challenging Democratic incumbents... An archetypal Millennial, he’s driven for Uber and Lyft to make ends meet… and is really good at making YouTube videos… His political idols include former Democratic presidential candidates Marianne Williamson and Andrew Yang, both of whom have given him their endorsements in an uphill race against Gomez.” (Source: https://thelandmag.com/voter-guide/david-kim-congressional-race-jimmy-gomez-progressive-challenger/)
UPDATED with a new pull quote from 2024:
“Representative Jimmy Gomez and progressive challenger David Kim face off for a third time in this Central and Northeast Los Angeles district. The trends may favor Kim this time, as he lost by 6% in 2020 and 2% in 2022. Kim has called for a ceasefire in Gaza, has a detailed proposal for universal healthcare, and advocates building public housing to solve our affordable housing crisis. In addition to his progressive policies, Kim also holds co-governance as a core value.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
He is endorsed by LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia, LAUSD School Board President Jackie Goldberg, Feel the Bern Democratic Club, Action Cali, and Ground Game LA.
DISTRICT 35: NORMA J. TORRES
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support, but I’ve chosen Norma J. Torres because I feel like she is the most qualified. However, I’ve included an alternate candidate below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Congresswoman Norma J. Torres represents California's 35th Congressional District in the Inland Empire... She previously served as a State Senator, Assembly Member, and as a Mayor and Council Member in the City of Pomona… As State Senator, Torres played a significant role in making the Affordable Care Act work for California’s patients and consumers. Her law to diversify the Covered California Board so that it would be better prepared to enroll the uninsured, earned her statewide recognition and national attention. As Chair of the Committee on Housing and Community Development, she led an effort that secured $2 billion in federal funds for the “Keep Your Home California” program, which helped thousands of families keep their homes during the foreclosure crisis… Now on her fifth term in Congress, Torres currently serves on the powerful House Appropriations Committee.” (Source: https://torres.house.gov/about/full-biography)
She is endorsed by Senator Alex Padilla, Rep. Judy Chu, CA Democratic Party, California Labor Federation, California Environmental Voters and Action Cali.
“Democratic challenger Melissa May is the better choice. May advocates a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness through increased funding for affordable housing, addressing the root causes of homelessness, and providing supportive services to those on the street.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/)
She is endorsed by Ground Game LA.
DISTRICT 36: TED LIEU
The choice is easy here, because he is the only viable Democrat running, plus he’s amazing.
DISTRICT 43: MAXINE WATERS
The choice is easy here, because it’s Maxine Fucking Waters.
DISTRICT 44: NANETTE DIAZ BARRAGAN
Almost everyone on the left agrees that Nanette Diaz Barragán is the best option, because she is the incumbent and the only viable Democrat running, against a far-right, extremist Republican. However, Ground Game LA has chosen to abstain because of her “refusal to support a ceasefire in Gaza.”
“The youngest of eleven children raised by immigrants from Mexico, Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán lives in San Pedro… [She] was elected to Congress in 2016, a year in which she was the only new Democratic Latina elected to the House of Representatives. [She] immediately sought leadership opportunities and was elected by her peers to serve as the President of the freshman Democrats. Congresswoman Barragán serves on the House Homeland Security Committee where she [fought] to stop Trump’s wasteful border wall… [She] stood up to President Trump and House Republicans to fight for our Dreamers, our veterans, our healthcare and our environment, including opposing any oil drilling off California’s coastline. [She] also voted twice to move forward with debate to impeach President Trump.” (Source: https://barraganforcongress.com)
She is endorsed by Senators Kamala Harris and Bernie Sanders, Reps. Barbara Lee, Pramila Jayapal, and Hakeem Jeffries, CA Democratic Party, Sierra Club, EMILY’s List, Planned Parenthood Action Fund and Equality California.
DISTRICT 45: KIM NGUYEN-PENALOZA
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Kim Nguyen-Penaloza is the best option we have, to defeat the anti-choice Republican incumbent Michelle Steel. However, I’ve included an alternate candidate below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Four Democrats are vying to run against Steel in November. The strongest among them, and the one with the best chance of knocking Steel out of her seat, is Kim Nguyen-Penaloza, a Garden Grove City Council member who has expertise and passion for improving healthcare and medical insurance — she works as a manager for Blue Shield’s Medi-Cal program — and who is a strong advocate for reproductive rights... Nguyen-Penaloza [is] the daughter of a Vietnamese refugee and Mexican immigrant [which] has given her an authentic understanding of the needs of the people and the issues in the 45th district. She was raised mostly in Garden Grove, and shortly out of college, when she disagreed with the voting-district boundaries drawn up for city council elections, she did the research and drew up a different map that was ultimately adopted by the city. That’s a lot of savvy for such a young person.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-29/editorial-kim-nguyen-penaloza-is-the-strongest-candidate-for-the-45th-congressional-district)
She is endorsed by Rep. Katie Porter, CA Democratic Party, CA Teachers Association (CTA), and the LA Times.
“Republican representative Michelle Steel, who recently reaffirmed her support for the “Life at Conception” anti-abortion act, is facing four Democratic challengers in this mostly Orange County district. Garden Grove councilmember Kim Nguyen-Penaloza, who has secured the most endorsements… lacks written policy platforms, a worrying sign typically indicating centrist views… Cheyenne Hunt is an attorney for the nonprofit Public Citizen, where she advocates for stricter regulation of large tech companies. Hunt supports reproductive justice, rent control, and an affirmative right to housing.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
She is endorsed by Voices of Gen-Z and Ground Game LA.
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STATE
CA STATE SENATE & ASSEMBLY
CA STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 23: KIPP MUELLER
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Kipp Mueller is the best option we have.
“Kipp Mueller is a labor attorney representing employees with a progressive platform focusing on homelessness, wage inequality, and the environment. Mueller lost by the narrowest of margins in 2020 to current Republican state senator Scott Wilk, who is term limited. Kipp deserves your vote over former Republican assemblymember Suzette Martinez Valladares and Victorville councilmember Blanca Azucena Gomez.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#city-of-la)
He is endorsed by Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis, California Federation of Teachers, Action Cali, and Ground Game LA.
CA STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 25: SASHA RENÉE PÉREZ
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Sasha Renée Pérez is the best option out of all the candidates running.
“When Pérez was elected to her hometown’s City Council in 2020, she was immediately made mayor, becoming at age 28 the youngest mayor in Alhambra’s history. She told The Times that she ran for office after she “lost family members to the homelessness crisis.” Pérez has raised more than $631,000, according to state campaign finance records. Her donors include unions representing teachers, nurses and SEIU members; the Pasadena chapter of Planned Parenthood; and Smart Justice, a group that advocates for criminal justice reforms. Pérez said that as a state senator she wants to focus on “addressing rising housing costs, investing in public education, and fighting climate change.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-02-01/2024-california-election-senate-district-25-legislative-primary-voter-guide)
She is endorsed by Reps. Adam Schiff and Judy Chu, CA Democratic Party, California Federation of Teachers, Abundant Housing LA, Equality California, East Area Progressive Democrats and Ground Game LA.
CA STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 27: HENRY STERN
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Henry Stern is the best option, especially considering how toxic and conservative his opponents are.
“If you live in [District 27], you should vote for Henry Stern. He is an effective and trustworthy environmental advocate, and he is opposed by an America First conservative and a right-wing bigot. In Los Angeles, it’s easy to be pro-environment. You can vote against a development or say yes to some ambitious climate goal and pander about the importance of sustainability without ever making a hard choice or expending political capital. That’s not the kind of environmental legislator Stern is: he consistently goes where the need and flashpoint is, striking smart balances between aggressively pushing the state forward and fostering legislatively viable policy. He is unafraid to butt heads when necessary, even with Governor Newsom… As the climate crisis moves from looming threat to intolerable normal, California must pilot and model bold, aggressive environmental policy, and the value of Stern’s work on this front is hard to overstate. In this election, vote for Henry Stern, and not just because the alternatives are political cyanide pills.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#california-legislature)
He is endorsed by CA Democratic Party and Ground Game LA.
CA STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 31: MARY ANN LUTZ
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Mary Ann Lutz is the best option.
“The Honorable Mary Ann Lutz and her husband Corey have called Monrovia home for more than 35 years. During that time, she has built a successful business while also taking on civic and non-profit roles that help strengthen and improve our communities. Mary Ann’s dedication to public service, education, and creating healthier, safer neighborhoods is second to none. She has served as Government Liaison/Policy Advisor to Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano; was elected Mayor of the City of Monrovia in 2009 and re-elected 2011 and 2013; served as a Monrovia City Council Member from 2003-2009; and has held several key city, regional, and federal leadership roles including serving as Chair of the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board from 2003-2012, President of San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments, Advisory Board Member and Chair of Women Mayors for the U.S. ConferenceofMayors,and as Vice Chair of the Gold Line Joint Powers Authority. Currently, Mary Ann is an elected member of the Board of Trustees for Citrus Community College and an elected member of the California Community College Board of Trustees.” (Source: https://www.lutzforcongress.com)
She is endorsed by Assemblymember Laura Friedman, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, and East Area Progressive Democrats.
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 40: PILAR SCHIAVO
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that incumbent Pilar Schiavo is the best and only option, running against a Republican opponent.
“Pilar Schiavo first took office in 2022 after defeating incumbent Republican Suzette Martinez Valladares in one of the closest races of the cycle, carrying the race by just a few hundred votes. Schiavo is now up for reelection against further-to-the-right candidate Patrick Lee Gipson, a former sheriff’s deputy running in opposition to “Marxist” school curricula, pandemic-era public health orders, and liberal activists “funded by unending influxes of foreign money.” Schiavo has supported tenant protections, worker rights, and affordable housing from this seat. We recommend a vote for Schiavo in what may be another tight race.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary)
She is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, California Federation of Teachers, Sierra Club, and Ground Game LA.
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 41: JOHN HARABEDIAN or JED LEANO
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support, because there are so many candidates running. So I had a hard time deciding. I personally lean towards John Harabedian, because he is really well-qualified, but I also understand why people prefer Jed Leano, who is a little more progressive. I’ve included both candidates below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Harabedian was raised in Sierra Madre, where he has worked as a prosecutor at the Los Angeles district attorney’s office. He was a Sierra Madre City Council member from 2012 to 2020… He said his main legislative interests include reducing homelessness, combating climate change, defending reproductive rights and preventing gun violence. “I believe every Californian should have an affordable place to live, a job that pays a livable wage, access to quality affordable healthcare, access to natural resources like clean water and open space to survive and thrive, and access to the best free education possible,” he said in a statement to The Times.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-02-01/2024-california-election-assembly-district-41-primary-voter-guide)
He is endorsed by State Senators Anthony Portantino and María Elena Durazo, Assemblymember Mike Fong, California Teachers Association (CTA), California School Employees Association (CSEA), and California Environmental Voters.
“There are four candidates vying for the open seat vacated by Chris Holden: Claremont city councilmember Jed Leano, former Sierra Madre city councilmember John Harabedian, former Pasadena police officer Phlunté Riddle, and lone Republican Michelle Del Rosario Martinez. The three Democrats have similar messages on homelessness, climate change, and reproductive rights. Leano earns a slight edge for promising to make the housing crisis his priority and supporting increased funding for rental subsidies and building affordable housing.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/)
He is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, Abundant Housing Los Angeles, Climate Action California, LA Progressive, and Ground Game LA.
[UPDATE: Activist Sara Lee has written an Op-Ed in the Colorado Bulletin where she calls out how “Dark Money Floods Local Races.”
“In the Assembly 41 race to replace Chris Holden, [Independent Expenditure PACs] have spent $993,624.7 supporting candidate John Harabedian, the majority of funds coming from Davita, Uber, Private Utilities and the ranchers alliance (last time I checked, there weren’t too many farmers and ranchers in the Pasadena and Sierra Madre area). In contrast… Jed Leano [does] not have any IEs supporting [him] but [has] still, nonetheless, raised enough small donations to run [an] expansive campaign.”]
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 42: JACQUI IRWIN
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Jacqui Irwin is the only viable option we have, since she is the Democratic incumbent running against a Republican challenger. On the one hand, she is good on education, but on the other, she is endorsed by multiple police unions. And Ground Game LA has chosen to abstain, because she “consistently fails to support progressive legislation.” Sorry, but you may have to hold your nose when you vote on this one!
“Jacqui Irwin was first elected in 2014 to represent [this] district… [She] currently Chairs the Revenue & Taxation Committee, and is a member of the Agriculture Committee, Business and Professions Committee, Higher Education Committee, and the Privacy & Consumer Protection Committee. Assemblymember Irwin also Chairs the Assembly Select Committee on Cybersecurity, and Co-Chairs the National Conference of State Legislatures Task Force on Cybersecurity... As the former Mayor of Thousand Oaks, Irwin understands the importance of working across party lines at the national, state, and local level to help make her community one of the safest places to live and raise a family. In her first term in the Assembly, Irwin successfully authored numerous pieces of legislation into law and brought vital state funds back to her community. Through her leadership funding was allocated for the creation of the CSU Channel Island School of Engineering and for innovation centers on UC campuses to transform UC research into products. Her legislation created tax-free savings accounts for the disabled, increased the cybersecurity of state agencies, and removed barriers for military service members seeking mental health services… Irwin also championed the environment with laws that expanded the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, promoted renewable energy resources, while also leading efforts to utilize the local brine line to bring purified water to local farmers.” (Source: https://jacquiirwin.com/about-jacqui)
She is endorsed by Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, California Teachers Association, California Correctional Peace Officers Association, Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, and Los Angeles Police Protective League.
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 44: STEVE PIERSON
There is a lot of disagreement on the left regarding who to support in this race, because there are so many good candidates running. So I had a hard time deciding, but I chose Steve Pierson, because he is really well-qualified. However, I’ve included some alternate candidates below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“As the Southern California Field Director and National Training Manager for Swing Left, Steve [has] spent the [past] 6 years using his skills as an organizer and his background in entertainment to help engage citizens to support Democratic campaigns up and down the ballot. He was elected to represent the San Fernando Valley as a California Democratic Party delegate and leads the statewide organizing committee… As our Assemblymember, he’ll fight for a thriving entertainment industry with on-location opportunities in California. He’ll work to pass CalCare – California’s Medicare for All Plan — so no family faces a financial crisis because of a medical emergency. He’ll take climate action so future generations can inhabit a healthy planet. He understands the spiral substance use causes and is committed to helping others recover. He’ll lock arms with Mayor Karen Bass and regional leaders to urgently address our homelessness crisis and ensure those seeking treatment get the support they need.” (Source: https://www.piersonforca.com)
He is endorsed by Assemblymember Pilar Achiavo, Sen. Barbara Boxer (Ret.), Activist Dolores Huerta, California Teachers Association, Reproductive Freedom for All (Formerly NARAL), LA Progressive, and Evolve California.
“We recommend Burbank councilmember Nick Schultz. Schultz has enacted several progressive policies in Burbank, including shifting funding from police to social welfare programs ($2 million — a small but nonetheless meaningful amount in a small city), creating a detailed municipal greenhouse gas reduction plan, and permitting new affordable housing over NIMBY opposition.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary)
He is endorsed by Assemblymember Laura Friedman, Abundant Housing Los Angeles and Ground Game LA.
“Councilwoman Elen Asatryan [is a] first-generation immigrant… from Armenia. A human and civil rights activist, community organizer, and businesswoman who has invested a majority of her life in our community and its challenges, she proudly remains a product of the community that afforded her all of her opportunities. Currently, Elen serves as a Glendale City Councilmember. She is the city’s first immigrant woman and the first Armenian-American woman to be elected into the Glendale City Council. While in office, she has continued to support her community by fighting for small businesses, the environment, youth development opportunities, equity issues, and so much more.” (Source: https://www.electelen.com)
She is endorsed by Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, and East Area Progressive Democrats.
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 48: BRIAN CALDERÓN TABATABAI
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support in this race, because the incumbent is Blanca Rubio, a well-qualified Latina. But I chose Brian Calderón Tabatabai, because he is much more progressive. However, I’ve included the incumbent’s information below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“In her eight years in office, Assemblymember Blanca Rubio has compiled one of the worst voting records among Democrats in the Assembly. She also infamously broke COVID lockdown to fly to Hawaii for a lobbyist gathering. This San Gabriel Valley district, which runs from Covina to Glendora, can and should do better. Enter Brian Calderón Tabatabai, a progressive West Covina councilmember and teacher who trumpets knocking on “every door” in his council race, coaching high school football, and carrying the endorsements of a wide coalition that includes the Working Families Party, labor unions, and prominent figures like Dolores Huerta and Supervisor Hilda Solis. Campaign platforms often use language so general and uncontroversial that it can be hard to understand how a candidate might vote on an important issue. This is not the case for Tabatabai. Not only does he articulate a platform we’d like to see enacted, he provides clear and honest descriptions of why such policies are needed. Tabatabai is similarly direct about why Rubio does not deserve another term. We strongly recommend a vote for Tabatabai.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/)
He is endorsed by Supervisor Hilda Solis, Activist Dolores Huerta, California Environmental Voters, LA County Federation of Labor, California Teachers Association, California Federation of Teachers, and Ground Game LA.
“Assemblywoman Blanca E. Rubio was elected in November 2016 to represent California’s 48th Assembly District… [she] has been re-elected three times since, running unopposed in 2018 and 2020. Assemblywoman Rubio has worked tirelessly to give her constituents a voice in the Capitol, placing advocacy for children, women, families, students, and immigrants at the forefront of her work. Since her election in 2016, Blanca has authored bills that support victims of domestic violence, create opportunities for children within the foster care system, ensure our youngest students are given proper support to succeed in school, and support for immigrant communities. Through her work in the California Legislature, Assemblywoman Rubio has raised awareness of women’s rights by authoring resolutions that declare August Breast Feeding Awareness Month and October Domestic Violence Awareness Month… Before coming to the Assembly, Blanca Rubio spent 16 years as a teacher and 20 years in elected office, serving on the Valley County Water Board, and Baldwin Park Unified School District… She was born in Juarez, Mexico, and came to the United States with her parents at a young age. Her personal experiences have given her a genuine understanding of the everyday struggles and barriers that immigrants and working families continue to face in the United States.” (Source: https://www.blancarubio.com)
She is endorsed by Equality California, National Women's Political Caucus California, California Professional Firefighters, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS).
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 49: MIKE FONG
Almost everyone on the left agrees that we should support the incumbent Mike Fong, who is both well-qualified and the only Democrat running.
“Following the January 2023 mass shooting in Monterey Park, Assemblymember Mike Fong sprang to action, introducing a legislative package focused on preventing such tragedies in the future. He ultimately passed laws strengthening the process for removing firearms from people who are prohibited from owning them, mandating translation services during emergencies, and combating anti-Asian discrimination. He also authored a law banning the sale of guns by state and local agencies.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary)
He is endorsed by Equality California, CA Democratic Party, and Abundant Housing LA.
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 52: JESSICA CALOZA or DAVID GIRÓN
There is a lot of disagreement on the left regarding who to support in this race, because there are so many good candidates running. So I had a hard time deciding. I like Jessica Caloza, because she is really well-qualified and a woman of color, but I also understand why people prefer David Girón. He is fiercely committed to environmental issues and, unlike Caloza, refuses to accept donations from fossil fuel companies. I’ve included both candidates below, as well as two other viable options, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Jessica is a dedicated public servant who worked for President Obama helping underfunded public schools get more resources. As L.A. Public Works Commissioner, Jessica expanded good-paying union jobs, raised wages for workers and required equal pay for women while increasing transparency and accountability. As California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Jessica has worked to reduce crime and gun violence, take bold action to protect the environment, and helped victims of sexual assault receive justice.” (Source: https://www.jessicacaloza.com)
She is endorsed by Reps. Judy Chu and Ted Lieu, LAUSD Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas, California Federation of Teachers, Abundant Housing Los Angeles, Planned Parenthood LA, SEIU, and Equality California.
“David is a lifelong Angeleno… A passionate community advocate who has worked closely with residents, community organizations, labor unions, social justice organizations, and small business owners… For over 12 years, David has been sharply focused on improving access to government, creating environmental equity and providing economic resilience for working class families. From leading the effort to have the State greatly increase funding for people experiencing homelessness, to implementing the LA voter approved HHH initiative, or fighting for increased wages for HERO pay during COVID-19, David’s actions highlight his commitment to improving the region…David’s policy work led him to become the lead staffer on the City Council’s Energy and Environment Committee, which resulted in the landmark LA100 plan, a nation-leading policy that will make the City of Los Angeles use 100% carbon-free energy by 2035. David’s work has resulted in the City getting serious and focused on greatly expanding electric vehicle infrastructure and solar + battery energy on buildings citywide. David also worked on the fight to eliminate oil rigs and drilling in Los Angeles, ensuring even more carbon emission protections for the public and our most vulnerable communities. While David ran the City Council’s Energy and Environment Committee, the Council adopted the styrofoam and plastics elimination policy, which is in the process of being implemented.” (Source: https://www.davidgiron2024.com)
I also heard from Cheryl Auger, an environmental activist, who says:
“I want to highlight that with all the money flooded into Jessica's race, I wouldn't trust that we'll have the votes on local solar, storage, microgrids, etc — all the things we need to mitigate the climate crisis. That scares me… PGE and SCE say they are doing all they can to meet our 2030 climate goals... [but] David has actually written and passed this legislation for LA City, to blanket every building and park with solar and storage and charging so LA City will be carbon free by 2035. I don't think you will find that specific type of experience in other candidates.”
He is endorsed by City Council President Paul Krekorian, Climate Activist Sara Lee, the Sierra Club, Climate Action CA, NELA Climate Collective, and Feminists in Action.
“Ruiz has worked for some of the most influential federal, state, and local leaders, including Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Assemblywoman Autumn Burke (Ret.), Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, and LAUSD Board Member Steve Zimmer (Ret.). As a non-profit leader, Ruiz worked for the El Sereno based non-profit, Barrio Action that focuses on helping at-risk youth children and their families, and for The Laurel Foundation that provides services for families affected by HIV/AIDS. In 2016, Ruiz joined the office of Assemblywoman Burke as a Field Deputy and worked his way up to serve as Deputy District Director. In the Legislature, he focused on supporting small businesses, protecting our environment, helping families access their unemployment benefits, and protecting the LGBT and Immigrant communities.” (Source: https://ariruiz.com)
He is endorsed by Rep. Maxine Waters, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, California Teachers Association, and California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus.
“Our recommendation in this field goes to Franky Carrillo. Several of this race’s candidates are former or current aides to elected representatives, and they would all likely serve ably, but we believe none would legislate with the fervor and seriousness that Franky Carrillo… would. Framed for murder by LASD gang members, wrongly convicted, and then exonerated after 20 years in prison (a story Knock LA covered as part of A Tradition of Violence), Franky Carrillo then earned a degree and went to work advocating for justice reform. He co-chaired the successful Measure A sheriff accountability ballot measure and is the chief policy advisor to California State University, Los Angeles’ Innocence Project. There is no substitute for lived experience.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#congress)
He is endorsed by LA Progressive and Ground Game LA.
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 54: MARK GONZALEZ or JOHN YI
There is a lot of disagreement on the left regarding who to support in this race, because there are two good candidates running: Mark Gonzalez, chairman of the Los Angeles County Democratic Party, and John Yi, executive director of Los Angeles Walks, a pedestrian advocacy group. So I had a hard time deciding. At first, I was leaning towards Yi, because he seemed like the more progressive option, but then I learned that he used to work for Parent Revolution, an organization the LA Times describes as “controversial” because their “main funders are well-known charter supporters, leading some to speculate that the group’s agenda is to promote, and recruit for, those schools.” In fact, a student named Nayla Huq at California State University, Northridge actually wrote their thesis on how this “astroturf, education reform organization”…manufacture[s] public support for a corporate political agenda.” Clearly, this wasn’t a dealbreaker for everyone, since some well-respected public education advocates have endorsed Yi. But it definitely gave me pause. In any case, I’ve included information about him and Mark Gonzalez below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Mark Gonzalez is a civil rights advocate and community organizer who currently serves as Chair of the Los Angeles County Democratic Party. As Chair, Mark has led the fight to pass laws to make housing more affordable, advance environmental justice, make community college free and expand access to quality healthcare for all. He also serves as District Director to Assemblymember Miguel Santiago, where he has helped pass crucial legislation for the COVID-19 response, immigration, workers protections, elections, and the economy. In 2022, Mark helped lead the fight to pass a constitutional amendment in California protecting a woman’s right to access safe, legal abortion care. In 2023, he worked to pass a new law ensuring that all healthcare workers receive a minimum wage of $25/hour. Mark grew up in Los Angeles as the son of a single mother in section 8 housing. Mark’s families’ struggles led him to a career as an organizer and advocate on behalf of his community. Mark lives in Chinatown, and unlike most politicians, he is a renter who understands the challenges faced by working families. Now Mark is running for Assembly to raise wages for working families, tackle LA’s homelessness and housing affordability crises, and guarantee healthcare as a right for all.” (Source: https://www.markgonzalezforassembly.com)
He is endorsed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, Reps. Judy Chu, Adam Schiff and Maxine Waters, California Federation of Teachers, California Teachers Association, LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, Abundant Housing LA, and the California Democratic Party.
“In another open seat race, we recommend nonprofit leader John Yi. Yi’s campaign focuses on stopping growing inequality and its impacts on district residents. He supports repealing the Ellis Act and the Costa-Hawkins Act, increased subsidies for cost-burdened households, and better public and active transportation. He is also the executive director of Los Angeles Walks, a pedestrian advocacy nonprofit.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/)
He is endorsed by LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, East Area Progressive Democrats, Feel the Bern Democratic Club, Feminists in Action, and Ground Game LA.
CA STATE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 55: ISAAC BRYAN
Almost everyone on the left agrees that we should support incumbent Isaac Bryan, who is both well-qualified and the only Democrat running.
“In his first full term, Isaac Bryan has been a progressive advocate for criminal justice reform, environmental protections, and affordable housing legislation. Bryan authored AB 93, which would have prohibited racially biased consent searches. These searches occur when police lack the necessary cause to conduct a search of a person’s body, belongings, or car, but request permission to search anyway and lean on their authority to coerce the person into agreement. Unfortunately, this bill failed to pass the Assembly because of the failure of many Los Angeles County Democrats to support the bill. Republican Keith Cascio is Bryan’s only opposition. Vote Bryan.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/)
He is endorsed by Mayor Karen Bass, LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, California Teachers Association, UTLA, and the Sierra Club.
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CITY & COUNTY
LOS ANGELES:
L.A. COUNTY DISTRICT ATORNEY: GEORGE GASCÓN
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that George Gascón is the best option we have.
“George Gascón was elected Los Angeles County district attorney in 2020, a convulsive year in which Americans’ lives were upended by the pandemic and public confidence in the criminal justice system was shaken by the murder of George Floyd. The latter led to a reckoning over racial inequity in arrests, prosecutions and punishment. Voters wanted Gascón to set a corrective course in the nation’s largest local jurisdiction while keeping people safe. He is doing what he promised, and doing it well, despite intense and dishonest backlash from opponents inside his office and among right-wing politicians and pundits across the nation. L.A. County voters would be wise to reject the nonsense and keep Gascón on the job and criminal justice reform in place.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-21/endorsement-reelect-george-gascon-as-los-angeles-district-attorney)
He is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, LA County Democratic Party, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali, Ground Game LA, and the LA Times.
L.A. COUNTY SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 2: HOLLY MITCHELL
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Holly Mitchell is the best choice.
“Holly Mitchell was elected to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors toward the close of tumultuous 2020, the year of COVID lockdowns, the George Floyd murder… and a general uptick in anxiety… It was a particularly difficult time to become part of the leadership of the nation’s most populous county. Mitchell rose to the challenge. In a low-profile job that is often poorly understood and difficult to perform in a county of any size, and virtually impossible in one of more than than 10 million people, she quickly got up to speed. She and her four colleagues steered a path out of the COVID emergency and into recovery with thoughtful spending of federal emergency aid to keep the most at-risk county residents housed and fed, and small landlords and businesses afloat, despite the disruption to the economy.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-09/endorsement-reelect-holly-mitchell)
She is endorsed by Mayor Karen Bass, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, and the LA Times.
L.A. COUNTY SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 4: JANICE HAHN
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Janice Hahn is the best option we have.
“Janice Hahn is running for a third and final term on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and, in all likelihood, the last elected term in her long political career. In her first four years she was a member of a board that made a historic improvement in the administration of essential programs for people in poverty or otherwise living on the margins in the county. And in her current term, she was a member of a board that grappled with COVID-19, an unprecedented public health emergency. In both those terms, Hahn served her constituents well. Of the three people on the March primary ballot, including former Sheriff Alex Villanueva, she is the best choice for District 4.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-10/endorsement-janice-hahn-county-board-of-supervisors-4th-district)
She is endorsed by the LA County Democratic Party, Planned Parenthood, and the LA Times.
L.A. COUNTY SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 5: CHRIS HOLDEN or KONSTANTINE ANTHONY
There is a lot of disagreement on the left regarding who to support in this race, because there are so many candidates running. So I had a really hard time deciding between Chris Holden and Konstantine Anthony. I personally lean towards Holden, because he is an extremely well-qualified Black man. But I’m concerned that he seems to think that deregulating public utilities is a good thing. (Here’s an article in the LA Times criticizing his attempt to pass a terrible deregulation law while in the CA Assembly). So I can understand why some people are choosing to support Konstantine Anthony instead. I’ve included both of them below, so that you can decide for yourself.
[UPDATE: I had originally said that there was no way I could support Kathryn Barger, because she’s Republican. Plus, I’m troubled by the fact that she’s endorsed by several police unions. That said, I’ve recently learned that she has an excellent track record when it comes to gun control reform, reproductive rights, and has a great deal of experience, so I’m adding her name below.]
“Chris Holden is a husband, father, Pasadena resident, former small business owner, lifelong Democrat, and dedicated public servant. In 2012, he was elected to represent the San Gabriel Valley Foothill communities in the California State Assembly… Elected to the Pasadena City Council at age 28, Chris was the 2nd African American to serve as Mayor in city history. Under his leadership, Pasadena created its first living wage ordinance to ensure that workers could earn decent pay for their hard work and contribute to the local economy. Chris also managed the deregulation of the city's public utility in a way that preserved local jobs while keeping rates lower than in the private marketplace. He also created the task force that led to the creation of Paseo Colorado and reconnected the historic civic center and new convention center, a key project that has helped small businesses and contributed to the revitalization of downtown Pasadena.” (Source: https://www.holdenforsupervisor.com)
He is endorsed by Rep. Adam Schiff, CA Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, State Senator Maria Elena Durazo, and the LA County Democratic Party.
“Since his election to Burbank City Council in 2020 and rotation to Mayor in 2022, Konstantine Anthony has proven himself to be a remarkably capable politician and exactly what we need on the Board of Supervisors — someone who can listen to and address all of his constituencies’ demands without compromising his own principles. A proud socialist and SAG-AFTRA member, Anthony puts his money where his mouth is, walking the union picket lines day after day or putting his body between the LAUSD school board meeting and an anti-gay mob. Knock LA recommended a vote for Konstantine during his first election; we were right. The incumbent is Supervisor Kathryn Barger, the only remaining Republican on the Board. Since her election eight years ago she has served only to slow and water down necessary county reforms, with no actual accomplishments to speak of besides inserting charlatans like Dr. Drew into the legislative record. Los Angeles should have a Board of Supervisors that reflects its actual values — replacing Barger with Anthony would be an enormous step in the right direction. Democratic Assemblymember Chris Holden is also running for Barger’s seat. While he would absolutely be an improvement over the incumbent, [Anthony] is better positioned to deliver the scale of change that the district needs.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#la-county)
He is endorsed by L.A. City Controller Kenneth Mejía, and Ground Game LA.
“Los Angeles County’s 5th Supervisorial District seemed made for Kathryn Barger when she was first elected in 2016. It included the county’s most conservative swaths… Ongoing demographic and generational shifts steadily moved the electorate toward the political center. But Barger’s liberalism on social issues kept her relevant with voters… [She] remains the best choice, and The Times recommends her for reelection. This may be the time when the county needs Barger most. The county enjoyed mostly good economic times over the last decade, notwithstanding pandemic shutdowns, as it correctly shifted away from incarceration and toward care for the sick, the homeless, the mentally ill and the addicted. But if the huge projected state budget deficit is any guide, the county may be facing a fiscal bump in the road. Or maybe even a major detour. Barger, who served for decades on the staff of Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich before succeeding him on the board, has managed budget shortfalls in the past and can walk the line between overspending and panic cutting of services for the most vulnerable county residents. Her experience is her strength… Holden chairs the Assembly’s powerful Appropriations Committee, so he knows his way around policy and budgets. In the end, though, his politics aren’t appreciably different from Barger’s, party affiliation notwithstanding, and he lacks her direct county government know-how. Anthony has served capably in Burbank city government, but his three-year record of service on a part-time city council does not equip him to take on the job as full-time representative of 2 million constituents, many in desperate need of county services.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-11/endorsement-kathryn-barger-supervisor)
She is endorsed by Supervisors Holly Mitchell and Janice Hahn, Planned Parenthood LA County Action Fund, Sierra Club, Abundant Housing LA, Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS) and the LA County Police Chiefs’ Association.
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LAUSD SCHOOL BOARD (DISTRICTS 1, 3, 5 & 7)
L.A. SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 1: SHERLETT HENDY NEWBILL
There has been some disagreement on the left regarding who to support in LAUSD Board District 1, because there are so many candidates running. However, I support Sherlett Hendy Newbill, because she is, by far, the most qualified. In addition to being an LAUSD teacher for over two decades, she has been a senior aide in Boardmember George McKenna’s office. She also happens to be a Black woman, which I feel is particularly important in a district that includes historically Black neighborhoods, such as Crenshaw and Baldwin Hills.
[UPDATE: I had originally included an alternate candidate, named Kahllid Al-Alim, so that you could decide for yourself. But it has come to light that he has some extremely problematic, antisemitic online activity. According to the LA Times, both UTLA and the LA County Federation of Labor have rescinded their endorsements of him, as has Ground Game LA. I strongly encourage you to support Hendy Newbill instead, and demand that Al-Alim drop out of the race, altogether.]
“[LAUSD] school board member George McKenna announced his retirement last year, leaving an open seat in District 1... This is an important seat on the school board that needs an experienced leader who can be responsive to the community and make smart decisions about how to allocate limited resources to improve student achievement, slash educational inequities, and ensure children’s safety and well-being. The person best prepared to do that is Sherlett Hendy Newbill, who has worked more than two decades at Susan Miller Dorsey High School as a basketball coach, teacher, dean of students and in other roles. Her extensive, on-the-ground experience and common sense, independent-minded approach to tackling complex problems gives her the edge over the other six candidates vying for this seat in the March primary.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-04/la-endorsement-lausd-district-5-sherlett-hendy-newbill)
She is endorsed by Supervisor Holly Mitchell, three active LAUSD Board Members (Jackie Goldberg, Dr. George McKenna, and Scott Schmerelson), Education Journalist Diane Ravitch, Parents Supporting Teachers, Stonewall Democratic Club, East Area Progressive Democrats, LA County Democratic Party, and the LA Times.
[UPDATE: Ground Game LA has rescinded their endorsement and replaced their statement in support of him, with the following:
“In light of reports, confirmed by Kahllid Al-Alim, that he used social media to praise a flagrantly antisemitic book in October of 2022, we are rescinding our recommendation of him for LAUSD District 1.”
As reported by the LA Times, Al-Alim has both shared and liked some extremely problematic, antisemitic posts.
“Los Angeles school board front-runner Kahllid Al-Alim — who is endorsed by the influential teachers union — is under fire for social media activity that has prompted accusations that he agreed with antisemitic content, glamorized guns and celebrated pornographic images… A post on X (formerly Twitter) that drew particular criticism was Al-Alim‘s praise of an antisemitic publication from the Nation of Islam organization titled: “The Secret Relationship Between Blacks and Jews: How Jews gained control of the Black American economy.” The book accuses Jews of stealing prosperity from Black people… and of “collaborating with and even financing such racial terrorists as the Ku Klux Klan.” …In an October 2022 post, Al-Alim… said the book should be mandatory reading in L.A. schools: “We not Burning or Banning Our Future! We Not Playing,” he tweeted.”
Again, UTLA, the LA County Federation of Labor and Ground Game LA have all rescinded their endorsements. However, this happened so last minute, after a reported $690,000 had already been spent on his behalf, which means the pro-union vote will be split between him and Hendy Newbill, giving an unfair advantage to another candidate named Didi Watts, who is heavily funded by the corporate charter lobby.
This is why Al-Alim needs to drop out now!
As Jenna Siegel Schwartz, Co-Founder of Parents Supporting Teachers, observes:
Per election code, if he removes himself, he will not move on past the primary regardless of his votes. I thought that today Khallid Al-Alim would post a resignation video. Instead he posted a video where he just apologized again… I’m not about to accept an apology for dozens of likes and posts, that consistently showed poor moral judgement across multiple areas. Anti semitism, guns, porn, conspiracy theories. Calling the Sandy Hook kids actors? AND HE ONLY APOLOGIZED WHEN HE WAS CAUGHT. His campaign knew about these posts and STILL let him run… Any one of these factors disqualify him for this position, but all of them together is insurmountable. We have fought for too hard and too long for these elected positions that we have won… Sherlett is everything this community needs, but she wasn’t the specific activist UTLA wanted her to be and that was that. And so here we are, facing this very real truth: If Al-Alim doesn’t remove himself from this race, he is handing it to his charter competitor on a silver platter. If you have the privilege to vote for Sherlett Hendy-Newbill… then please do so. We would be lucky to have [her] as [our] Board Member.”
Nicole Fefferman, another Co-Founder of Parents Supporting Teachers, says:
“Please… send an email to Kahllid's campaign to help them understand that in order for us to keep the School Board as a public school supporting majority, he needs to withdraw from the race. We have just begun to turn the tide in LAUSD. We cannot let our progress slip away. Email them here: https://kahllidforschoolboard.com/contact-us”
Again, I strongly encourage you to support Sherlett Hendy Newbill. And please donate to her campaign if you can!]
L.A. SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 3: SCOTT SCHMERELSON
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Scott Schmerelson is the best candidate running in LAUSD Board District 3.
“We recommend that voters reelect school board member and retired principal Scott Schmerelson for a final four-year term in District 3… [He] has worked with the board on reaching reasonable solutions rather than taking ideological sides. At least two of the board’s seven seats will change hands this year because Dr. George McKenna and Jackie Goldberg are retiring, making it all the more important that Schmerelson remain on the board to avoid disruption. Asked about his goals for a final term, Schmerelson said he wanted to keep working on current initiatives, such as community schools… Schmerelson is clearly the strongest… candidate, and his experience and balanced leadership are what the board needs right now.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-04/editorial-reelect-scott-schmerelson-to-la-unified-school-board)
He is endorsed by three active LAUSD Board Members (Jackie Goldberg, Dr. George McKenna, and Dr. Rocío Rivas), State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, Education Journalist Diane Ravitch, Parents Supporting Teachers, East Area Progressive Democrats, and the LA Times.
L.A. SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 5: FIDENCIO GALLARDO
This was an easy choice for me, despite the fact that there is a lot of disagreement on the left because there are so many candidates running in LAUSD Board District 5. First of all, I’ve been friends with Fidencio Gallardo for the past five years, but most importantly, he has been working in LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg’s office as her Education Innovation Deputy for nearly as long, and doing an amazing job.
I wrote about him in a piece called “Vote for Fidencio Gallardo for LAUSD School Board, District 5!” where, among other things, I raved about the fact that, “While working for Jackie, Fidencio has visited every single school in Board District 5. He is an excellent listener and problem solver, absolutely beloved by everyone who knows him. He is intimately familiar with the school board’s budget and inner workings, and will be able to hit the ground running, if he gets elected in November. Even better, Fidencio already has a proven track record as an elected official, thanks to his longstanding efforts to eradicate government corruption in his community.” These efforts got him elected to Bell’s City Council in 2015, and as Mayor of Bell in 2020. “Last but not least, [Fidencio] is a proudly out gay man, at a time when that feels more important than ever in the public sphere.”
The LA Times has also written a glowing endorsement of Fidencio:
“Departing Los Angeles Unified school board member Jackie Goldberg leaves big shoes to fill in District 5… Many [members of this community] were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to suffer from learning loss, chronic absenteeism and other problems. They need a champion who is prepared to advocate and deliver for them from day one. Fortunately, there’s an experienced, thoughtful and fair-minded candidate to succeed Goldberg and provide the representation these often-neglected communities deserve. Fidencio Gallardo, the mayor of the City of Bell, was a classroom teacher and administrator for nearly three decades until he began working as a deputy for Goldberg in 2019. Of the four candidates running, Gallardo articulates the clearest vision for improving student achievement and well-being in the wake of the pandemic. And his breadth of experience puts him the best position to actually get things done.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-23/endorsement-fidencio-gallardo-for-los-angeles-unified-school-district-board-district-5)
He is endorsed by four active LAUSD Board Members (Jackie Goldberg, Dr. Rocio Rivas, Dr. George McKenna, and Scott Schmerelson), Supervisor Hilda Solis, Education Journalist Diane Ravitch, Parents Supporting Teachers, California School Employees Association (CSEA), Stonewall Democratic Club, the NELA Climate Collective, Feminists in Action, East Area Progressive Democrats, and the LA Times.
[UPDATE: I just want to acknowledge that Fidencio is running against Karla Griego, who happens to be a highly accomplished woman in her own right. Please read my other piece, “Vote for Fidencio Gallardo for LAUSD School Board, District 5!,” to see why I support Fidencio instead of her.
Also, he is running against a terrible, charter-funded candidate named Graciela Ortiz, who is embroiled in some horrifying scandals: a lawsuit involving the abuse of a minor and the use of a campaign volunteer who engaged in homophobic smears against Fidencio, which Ortiz has yet to denounce. After the lawsuit was filed, CSEA rescinded its endorsement of her. Again, for more details, please read my other piece.]
L.A. SCHOOL BOARD, DISTRICT 7: TANYA ORTIZ FRANKLIN
Almost everyone on the left is in agreement that Tanya Ortiz Franklin is the only viable candidate running in LAUSD Board District 7, despite the fact that she continues to accept corporate charter lobby donations.
“It is unlikely that we can stop Tanya Ortiz Franklin from winning a second term, and it is a red flag for us that she will do so without the support of United Teachers Los Angeles or her colleagues Jackie Goldberg, Rocío Rivas, and Scott Schmerelson. But voters should spend the next four years holding her accountable, pushing her left, and elevating potential challengers who are already there.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#lausd)
She is endorsed by Planned Parenthhood, SEIU, and the LA Times.
ABSTAINING: Ground Game LA.
GUSD SCHOOL BOARD (AREA A & E)
GLENDALE SCHOOL BOARD, AREA A: TELLY TSE
Everyone on the left is in agreement that Telly Tse is the best, and only viable candidate running in GUSD (Area A), which has been targeted by homophobic, right-wing extremists. It is imperative that we elect him, to advocate for the LGBTQ+ and/or BIPOC members of this community.
“This past summer, right-wing extremists targeted Glendale Unified School District (GUSD) for teaching an age-appropriate LGBTQ+ curriculum. They pressured schools to cancel Pride Month events and violently protested outside Saticoy Elementary, causing parents and LGBTQ+ advocates to fear for the safety of the students. Now, far-right candidates are running for the GUSD school board on an anti-LGBTQ+ platform.
Fortunately, two candidates, Telly Tse in Area A and Neda Farid in Area E, want to defend the rights and access of not only LGBTQ+ students but also students of color, students with special needs, and students of all ethnicities and cultures. Farid is a former Glendale Council PTA president and a parent of a GUSD graduate, while Telly is a special education teacher with two children in GUSD schools. Both are endorsed by the Glendale Teachers Association, the Southern California Armenian Democrats, and GUSD Parents for Public Schools, as well as many other groups. Their platforms also include more funding for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) programs, better GUSD communication with parents and the community, and increased investment in teachers. Voters should send a loud message that hateful bigotry is not tolerated in Glendale. Vote for Telly and Farid.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#la-county)
He is endorsed by Assemblymember Laura Friedman, LA County Democratic Party, Glendale Teachers Association, Stonewall Democratic Club, Courage California, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali, and Ground Game LA.
GLENDALE SCHOOL BOARD, AREA E: NEDA FARID
Everyone on the left is in agreement that Neda Farid is the best, and only viable candidate running in GUSD (Area E), which has been targeted by homophobic right-wing extremists. It is imperative that we elect her, to advocate for the LGBTQ+ and/or BIPOC members of the community. See above for her Knock LA write-up.
She is endorsed by Assemblymember Laura Friedman, LA County Democratic Party, Glendale Teachers Association, Stonewall Democratic Club, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali, and Ground Game LA.
GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL (AT LARGE)
GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL: Pick two… ARDY KASSAKHIAN and KAREN KWAK
“Councilmember Ardy Kassakhian has been an advocate for affordable housing, public transit, and bike-and-pedestrian-friendly streets in Glendale. Kassakhian is also endorsed by GUSD Parents for Public Schools.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#la-area)
He is endorsed by Senator Alex Padilla, Rep. Adam Schiff, LA County Democratic Party, Sierra Club, and Ground Game LA.
“I was born in Korea and grew up in Honolulu, Hawaii… As an Asian, I am clearly good at math, so I majored in English Literature at Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. Then I worked as an Editor in New York City for nearly 20 years, mainly for scientific and academic publishers… Then I moved to Glendale, California in early 2017… However, I had a much tougher time find a job in the LA area... This gave me time to become involved in my community… I talked to many tenants who wanted rent control but were afraid of retaliation if they signed our petition. This is how I first got the idea that the secret ballot at the voting booth might serve my neighbors better than by a public petition, because no one knows how we voted. My (unpaid) work as an activist led me to City Hall… The issues I hear discussed by the City Council bear very little resemblance to the concerns that my neighbors express at community meetings. I found this disconnect fascinating and have been a regular at City Council meetings ever since.” (Source: https://kwakforchange.com)
She is endorsed by the LA County Democratic Party, Planned Parenthood, Action Cali, and Ground Game LA.
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L.A. CITY COUNCIL
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 2: ADRIN NAZARIAN
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support, because there are so many candidates running. I support Adrin Nazarian, because he seems like the most experienced and the most qualified. However, I’ve included an alternate candidate below, named Jillian Burgos, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Councilmember Paul Krekorian [is] termed out, and the race to replace him has drawn a large pool of candidates... [We] recommend Adrin Nazarian, an experienced lawmaker who represented the area in the state Assembly for a decade... [Before that] Nazarian was Krekorian’s longtime chief of staff, first in the Assembly… and then in the City Council... His background means he will be able to hit the ground running. Nazarian is a thoughtful, collaborative leader who is willing to take on difficult, weedy issues… This attribute would be an asset on the L.A. City Council, where big changes — such as increasing housing affordability, easing homelessness, improving public safety and reforming City Hall — will take years of consistent, committed leadership from elected officials.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-24/endorsement-adrin-nazarian-for-los-angeles-city-council-district-2)
He is endorsed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, Mayor Karen Bass, LAUSD Board Member Jackie Goldberg, East Area Progressive Democrats, and the LA Times.
“Jillian Burgos is a healthcare worker, the owner of a small theater company, and a North Hollywood Neighborhood Council representative. During her budding career as a public servant, she has proven her progressive values by helping organize support for tenant protections and unarmed response pilot programs. She supports ending 41.18, moving toward fare-free access to Metro, and exploring a universal basic income program.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#city-of-la)
She is endorsed by City Controller Kennth Mejia, Mayor of Burbank Konstantine Anthony, LA Forward, Action Cali, and Ground Game LA.
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 4: NITHYA RAMAN
The choice is easy here, because there is only one real Democrat running in this district, plus Raman is amazing.
“Nithya Raman has changed the game in Los Angeles city politics. When she won in 2020 as an unapologetic progressive insurgent, she became the first candidate in decades to unseat an LA City Council incumbent… Her office revolutionized homelessness outreach in the city with its emphasis on outreach, care, and building relationships of trust with unhoused constituents — a model that has increasingly spread throughout the council… She joined with two colleagues to oppose the disastrous new police contract — not enough to stop it, but an act of political defiance that would have been unthinkable before 2020… There is no better proof of the strength of her record — and of the threat she has posed to the old way of doing business — than how hard the old guard has worked to destroy her… It is a tribute to Raman’s continuing reserve of political support that even with a new bespoke map tailored to oust her, the best challenger anyone could come up with is Ethan Weaver… a former Republican and… obnoxious, anti-charismatic politician… That said, Weaver has attracted major outside funding support from police unions and shady developers, as well as fellow “ex”-Republican Rick Caruso, so Raman is not in the clear. She still needs strong support from progressives to carry her back into another term. And frankly, she’s earned it.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#city-of-la)
She is endorsed by Mayor Karen Bass, Supervisor Hilda Solis, LAUSD Board Members Jackie Goldberg and Dr. Rocío Rivas, LA County Democratic Party, Sierra Club, LA Forward, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali, and the LA Times.
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 6: IMELDA PADILLA
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support, because some argue that there aren’t any good candidates running. But I support Imelda Padilla, because she seems like the best positioned to do a good job.
“Imelda Padilla joined the Los Angeles City Council not quite six months ago, after winning a special election to replace former council President Nury Martinez, who resigned [after a leaked audio scandal]… Now [Padilla] is running for a full, four-year term… What makes Padilla stand out is her long history of involvement with community issues, beginning when she was a teenager serving on the L.A. City Youth Council. She has worked in a variety of community engagement and outreach roles for Pacoima Beautiful, the Los Angeles County Women and Girls Initiative… and she served on the Sun Valley Area Neighborhood Council. As a result, she has a wide range of support among community and business organizations, elected officials, labor unions and regular Angelenos.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-08/endorsement-endorsement-for-los-angeles-city-council-district-6)
She is endorsed by LAUSD Board Member Jackie Goldberg, East Area Progressive Democrats, and the LA Times.
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 8: MARQUEECE HARRIS DAWSON
Almost everyone on the left agrees that Marqueece Harris-Dawson is the best candidate, with some exceptions who are choosing to abstain, because they feel he isn’t progressive enough.
“City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson has represented the district since 2015 and has been an effective steward of this changing community, tackling homelessness, economic development and public safety… He is a champion for criminal justice reform, specifically ending traffic enforcement stops by armed LAPD officers, which he says is one of the most damaging factors in community-police relationships… His biggest achievement has been Destination Crenshaw, a 1.3-mile outdoor installation of significant Black art and parks along Crenshaw Boulevard — the major commercial corridor in South LA. The project, which celebrates Black culture and the Black roots of the Crenshaw area, is expected to open this year.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-12/endorsement-marqueece-harris-dawson-for-l-a-city-council-district-8)
He is endorsed by Mayor Karen Bass, LAUSD Board Member Jackie Goldberg, and the LA Times.
ABSTAINING: Ground Game LA has chosen to abstain.
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 10: EDDIE ANDERSON
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support, because there are so many candidates running. I support Eddie Anderson, because he seems particularly well-qualified. However, I’ve included an alternate candidate below, named Grace Yoo, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Long-time reverend, community builder, and dedicated community activist Eddie Anderson recently threw his collar in the ring to represent Los Angeles City Council District 10… Pastor Eddie—as he’s known in activist circles around the city—has served as senior pastor at the historic McCarty Memorial Christian Church… while also working as organizer for LA Voice, the multi-racial, multi-faith community organization… Pastor Eddie has been a ubiquitous presence in L.A.’s activist circles, working with Black Lives Matter, cofounding Clergy4BlackLives, and serving on LA County’s Black People Experiencing Homelessness Committee... Pastor Eddie knows about LA’s chronic houselessness crisis first hand, after having to couch surf without a place of his own soon after moving to Los Angeles, despite working two jobs as an ordained minister with degrees from Morehouse College and Claremont School of Theology.” (Source: https://www.laprogressive.com/elections-and-campaigns-videos/pastor-eddie-anderson)
He is endorsed by City Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, Courage California, LA Forward, Ground Game LA, and the LA Times.
“Grace Yoo is a community advocate, attorney, and former L.A. City Commissioner. Grace has spent over 30 years fighting for local communities, working families, and those whose voices have been ignored. In her quest to hold City leaders accountable to the residents and business owners in CD 10, Grace stepped up to protect our environment, fight against injustice, and stop zoning violations by suing the City of Los Angeles three times because the City refused to do whats right. Grace is running for City Council because it is time for the District to have a leader who will implement the smart, common sense public policy that’s needed to address our most pressing issues including homelessness and keeping people safe. She will insure that the District has fair representation, reliable city services, and a local focus. Grace will bring her extensive public policy experience to City Hall. An expert on issues related to seniors, Grace has served as a Director for St. Barnabas Senior Services and as Steering Committee Chair for the Los Angeles Aging Advocacy Coalition. With the hope of tackling L.A.’s transportation problems, Grace accepted an appointment to serve as a L.A. City Commissioner and Vice-President of Los Angeles’ Department of Transportation.” (Source: https://www.graceforla.com)
She is endorsed by LAUSD Boardmembers Jackie Goldberg and Scott Schmerelson, and East Area Progressive Democrats.
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 12: SERENA OBERSTEIN
Everyone on the left is in agreement that Serena Oberstein is the only viable candidate running in this district, and luckily she also happens to be good.
“Because there are only two candidates running for Los Angeles City Council District 12, the race will be decided in the March 5 primary. Either voters will give incumbent John Lee another term, or they will replace him with challenger Serena Oberstein, a nonprofit executive and former president of the L.A. City Ethics Commission. For voters it’s a choice between clinging to outdated ideas about the northwest San Fernando Valley or embracing a fresh, sustainable, vibrant vision for the future. We hope they choose the latter and vote for Oberstein. We think Oberstein would be a much better representative for the district and a more thoughtful member of the city’s leadership. She worked for former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and served four years on the Ethics Commission, including as president, and helped shepherd through significant reforms to city’s matching funds campaign finance program. She has deep ties to the district where she grew up and is now raising her family… Her approach is refreshingly forward-looking and will help to guide District 12 into a better future.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-05/editorial-serena-oberstein-for-los-angeles-city-council-district-12)
She is endorsed by Rep. Adam Schiff, Assemblymember Laura Friedman, LA County Democratic Party, LA Forward, Action Cali, Ground Game LA, and the LA Times.
L.A. CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 14: YSABEL JURADO
There is a lot of disagreement on the left regarding who to support, because there are so many candidates running. I support Ysabel Jurado, because she seems like the most progressive option, and I like that she is a woman of color. However, I’ve included another excellent candidate below, named Miguel Santiago, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Ysabel Jurado is the most viable progressive candidate in this race. The daughter of undocumented Filipino immigrants and a single mother, she understands the struggles working class Angelenos face, because she has faced them herself. As a teen mom, she relied on food stamps to feed her family and depended on the 81 bus line to get her from Northeast LA to Westwood, where she got her degree from UCLA after transferring from Pasadena City College. This is what led her to become an eviction defense lawyer and work on the frontlines of the housing/homelessness crisis. She understands that in order to solve the homelessness crisis, we first need to stop it from continuing to get worse… Jurado’s expertise and dedication to serving the community is reflected in her campaign platform. While a newcomer to politics, her website boasts detailed policy proposals that have been meticulously crafted with input from the community. Her proposals include expanding affordable housing, building community resource hubs, ending homelessness, supporting small businesses, tackling the climate crisis, and building a more just economy for all.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#city-of-la)
She is endorsed by L.A. City Controller Kenneth Mejia, City Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, LAUSD Board Members Jackie Goldberg and Dr. Rocio Rivas, DSA-LA, and Ground Game LA.
“Of the seven candidates seeking to oust De León, state Assemblymember Miguel Santiago stands out as the best person for the job. In nearly a decade representing the area in the state Legislature, Santiago, 50, has earned a reputation as a responsive and diligent lawmaker, if at times more cautious than bold. He has shown leadership and persistence in tackling some of the issues that matter most to his constituents, including housing, homelessness and environmental justice. He built support among reform-resistant lawmakers to pass significant laws that require communities to address housing segregation and inequality and empower state officials to finally hold cities and counties accountable when they fail to plan their fair share of housing. He showed courage in tackling homelessness by pushing through legislation to streamline the approval of emergency shelters, permanent supportive housing and affordable housing in Los Angeles by exempting such projects from certain environmental reviews. Santiago has also spent years working to hold the state accountable for cleaning up the health-endangering lead contamination from the Exide battery recycling plant that officials allowed to pollute southeast L.A. County neighborhoods, and securing the funds needed to get the job done right.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-26/endorsement-miguel-santiago-for-los-angeles-city-council-district-14)
He is endorsed by Rep. Judy Chu, Supervisor Janice Hahn, Activist Dolores Huerta, the LA County Democratic Party, Abundant Housing Los Angeles, La Opinión, and the LA Times.
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CITY & COUNTY MEASURES
L.A. CITY MEASURE HLA (HEALTHY STREETS LA): YES
Everyone on the left seems to be in agreement that Measure HLA is good.
“Frustrated by the lack of political will and bureaucracy, street safety advocates collected enough signatures to put Healthy Streets LA, or Measure HLA, on the March ballot. The initiative would force the city to carry out the improvements in the Mobility Plan. Any time city departments repave at least one-eighth of a mile of street, they would have to add the improvements outlined in the plan, whether bike lanes, bus lanes, pedestrian enhancements or fixes to ease vehicle traffic. This makes sense… The mandate of Measure HLA would, ideally, prompt City Hall to better organize street work programs and make Mobility Plan improvements a part of routine road maintenance… Measure HLA has broad support among neighborhood councils, environmental, labor and business groups. Their members understand that Los Angeles needs to evolve into a city that is safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users and, yes, even motorists. The plan recognizes that Angelenos will still drive — it includes 80 miles of streets that are prioritized for vehicle travel and projects that help drivers maintain safe, consistent speeds and reliable travel times. The rising number of traffic deaths is a preventable tragedy. Voters have the power to make Los Angeles’ streets safer. Vote yes on Measure HLA.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-01-18/endorsement-yes-on-measure-hla-los-angeles-needs-safer-more-bikable-walkable-streets)
This measure is endorsed by City Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, the LA County Democratic Party, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali, Ground Game LA, and the LA Times.
SUPERIOR COURT (SEATS 012-137)
If you’d like to learn more about the Superior Court, I highly recommend reading this excellent article in LAist which lays it all out: “Evaluating judicial candidates is notoriously hard, but there are a few pieces of information you can look at to help with your decision.” It then goes on to explain what these judges do, how long they serve, who they are and why it’s important to elect good ones:
“If the law is very clear on a given issue, a judge has to stick to it regardless of how they personally feel. In other cases, laws may be ambiguous, and that’s when a judge has to issue their own interpretation of the law. Judges also have a fair amount of discretion when it comes to handing down penalties, such as the length of a sentence for a criminal conviction or the payment sum for a civil case. That's where it starts to really matter who is in the seat.” (Source: https://laist.com/news/politics/2024-election-california-primary-los-angeles-county-superior-court-judge)
OFFICE NO. 12: RHONDA A. HAYMON
There is a lot of disagreement on the left regarding who to support, which made this a difficult decision. What made it even harder is that well-respected leaders on both sides are saying that their candidate is the only one who is qualified for the job. In the end, I chose Rhonda A. Haymon, because I am flabbergasted by the fact that her opponent first got elected to the bench when she was’t even practicing law. However, I’ve included her opponent’s information below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Rhonda Haymon has been a public defender for more than two decades, litigating cases from petty misdemeanors to homicides. She also teaches as an adjunct professor at Southwestern Law School, sharing her knowledge and experience with the next generation of lawyers. The incumbent, Hon. Lynn Olson, took a bizarre and dishonorable path to the bench: she was not even practicing law when she ran in 2006, having spent years running a Manhattan Beach bakery, and managed to sandbag the incumbent with a flood of deceptive mailers. It’s a baffling chapter and reflective of a time when judicial elections faced almost no meaningful scrutiny.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#judges)
She is endorsed by East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali and Ground Game LA.
“Haymon is “Not Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
(Yes, I’m puzzled by this “Not Qualified” ranking too, but given that so many well-respected leaders have chosen to endorse her anyway, I’m going to assume this is not disqualifying.)
“Lynn Diane Olson’s current assignment is the Superior Court’s magistrate unit, where she considers requests for search warrants, pre-arraignment bail and emergency orders. She previously served in a variety of civil and criminal courts and earned a reputation as a solid, hard-working judge. Last year, she held a lawyer in contempt of court for disruptive behavior. That lawyer, Deputy Public Defender Rhonda A. Haymon, is now trying to defeat her. Olson is easily the better choice. The incident was the only time in her career that Olson held a lawyer in contempt, and a transcript shows the order was warranted. It was upheld on appeal. She is an even-tempered judge who demonstrated that she knows how to manage a courtroom.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-06/incumbent-superior-court-endorsements)
She is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg and the LA Times.
“Olson is “Well-Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
OFFICE NO. 39: GEORGE A. TURNER
Almost everyone on the left seems to agree that George A. Turner is the best choice. However, I’ve included an alternate candidate below, named Steve Napolitano, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Over the past 50 years, California has constructed 23 prisons and only three colleges. However, a growing number of individuals, including myself, believe that we need to break free from the cycle of custody. As an attorney, I've devoted my career to discovering alternative solutions that cater to the community's needs. Now, as a judge, I intend to bring that experience to the bench and revolutionize many of the practices that make justice so hard to achieve in our criminal legal system.” (Source: https://georgeaturner4judge.com)
He is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, LA County Democratic Party, LA County Federation Of Labor (AFL-CIO), Stonewall Democratic Club, LA Forward, Action Cali and Ground Game LA.
“Turner is “Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
“Of the four people competing for this seat, the best is Manhattan Beach Councilmember Steve Napolitano, an attorney who serves as an administrative law judge for a variety of government agencies and who also represents prison inmates in their parole hearings. Previously, Napolitano served as senior deputy to Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe. His breadth of experience would make him an asset to the Superior Court. Also running are Deputy Dist. Atty. Jacob Lee, Deputy Public Defender George A. Turner Jr. and private practitioner Ronda Dixon. Lee and Turner may someday, with more experience, be ready for the bench.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-07/superior-court-endorsements)
He is endorsed by CA State Senator Ben Allen and the LA Times.
“Napolitano is “Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
OFFICE NO. 48: ERIKA J. WILEY
Almost everyone on the left seems to be in agreement that Erika J. Wiley is the most qualified.
“Each candidate in this three-person race would make a credible Superior Court judge, but Deputy Public Defender Ericka J. Wiley is a standout. Early in her legal career, Wiley represented tenants faced with eviction and also counseled teenage mothers who were involved in the juvenile justice system. She observed what she said were hasty decisions by lawyers and judges that had a huge impact on young lives, and it inspired her to be a criminal defense lawyer. She has spent the last 24 years in the Los Angeles County public defender’s office. She has handled capital murder and other special circumstances cases, and served as a supervisor in the Bellflower courthouse. Her demeanor is calm but commands respect, and makes her well-suited to the bench.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-07/superior-court-endorsements)
She is endorsed by City Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, the LA County Democratic Party, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali, Ground Game LA, and the LA Times.
“Wiley is “Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
OFFICE NO. 93: VICTOR AVILA NATASHA KHAMASHTA (WRITE-IN CANDIDATE)*
Everyone on the left is in agreement that Victor Avila is the only candidate, however some have chosen to endorse him and others to abstain.
[UPDATE: A new, write-in candidate, named Natasha Khamashta, has just entered the race. Given that she is an advocate for Restorative Justice, I find this recent development very exciting. I am strongly encouraging people to write-in her name, instead of voting for Victor Avila, who until now was running unopposed.
“Natasha Khamashta, a veteran member of the LA County Public Defender’s Office has decided to launch a longshot effort with a write-in campaign to land a judgeship come primary day, March 5th. Admitted to the California Bar some twenty-five years ago… She has served the Public Defender’s Office as a deputy charged with the Collaborative Unit, a resource attorney in the Juvenile Division and Deputy in Charge of the Torrance Branch office… Before joining the Public Defender’s Office, she spent nearly a decade as a trial attorney and tried more than fifty cases to verdict. An expert in grants writing, she is a member of the Los Angeles County Bar Association, the California Public Defender’s Association, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the National Association for Public Defense…
[Direct quote explaining why she’s running]: I decided to get into this race on February 7th, after opening my ballot and realizing that Deputy District Attorney Victor Avila was running unopposed. Negative opinions of him as a prosecutor by seasoned public defenders spurred my decision to instinctively write my name on the ballot and make it official. Without an opponent, Mr. Avila will win by default, absent the evaluation by the Los Angeles County Bar Association's Judicial Election Evaluation Committee, that each of the other candidates undergo. I didn't run initially because I was, and still am, a full-time deputy public defender in addition to serving as a campaign manager for my four public defender colleagues on the ballot: Ericka Wiley, George Turner, La Shae Henderson, and Kim Repecka. During the past several months on the campaign trail, I have uncovered many ways in which the judicial election process in LA can be improved… I will be a holistic jurist. I will take a broad, all-encompassing approach and bring an interdisciplinary lens to the bench. I will encourage Restorative Justice as a method of resolving cases, when legally permissible and when circumstances allow.” (Source: https://www.citywatchla.com/la-election-2022/28506-la-public-defenders-write-in-campaign-challenges-victor-avilas-superior-court-bid)
She is endorsed by Commissioner Lisa A. Brackelmanns, The Honorable Judges Holly Hancock, Pamela Villanueva and Lisa Washington, and the Cañada Crescenta Democratic Club.
The following endorsements for Victor Avila were all made before Khamashta announced that she was running… ]
VICTOR AVILA:
“Voters will be asked to mark their ballots for this office, even though they have only one choice. Fortunately, Deputy Dist. Atty. Victor Avila is a well-regarded prosecutor and is likely to be a good judge.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-07/superior-court-endorsements)
He is endorsed by the LA County Democratic Party and the LA Times.
ABSTAINING: LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali and Ground Game LA have all chosen to abstain.
No rating from the LA County Bar Association.
OFFICE NO. 97: SHARON RANSOM
There is some disagreement on the left on who to support. I chose Sharon Ransom because she seems to be the most qualified. However, I’ve included an alternate candidate below, named La Shae Henderson, so that you can decide for yourself.
“When Deputy Dist. Atty. Sharon Ransom ran for judge two years ago, The Times expressed regret that it could endorse only one candidate in her race. Ransom was nearly as impressive as a competitor who had the edge in experience. This time around she is hands down the best in her field of three. Ransom worked for years as a dispatcher for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and was nearly 40 before she became an attorney. This experience appears to have provided valuable perspective and maturity. Judges and defense lawyers note her unflappable manner in seeking resolution of cases in the D.A.’s mental health unit, and previously in prosecuting elder abuse and child molestation.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-07/superior-court-endorsements)
She is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, East Area Progressive Democrats, and the LA Times.
“Ransom is “Well-Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
“La Shae Henderson served with the public defender for 18 years, during which she worked extensively in the juvenile courts and worked with litigators across the state on implementation of California’s Racial Justice Act (2020) which aimed to reduce racial bias in the criminal legal system. A depth of specialized knowledge makes her a natural choice. Henderson is part of the Defenders of Justice slate and endorsed by Ground Game LA.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#judges)
She is endorsed by City Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia, Judge Holly Hancock, and Ground Game LA.
“Henderson is “Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
OFFICE NO. 115: CHRISTMAS BROOKENS
There is some disagreement on the left regarding whether to vote or abstain, but I have chosen Christmas Brookens, because she seems well-qualified.
“This race pits two accomplished Los Angeles County deputy district attorneys against each other. Either would likely make a good judge, both have compelling life stories and are well-regarded for their intelligence, integrity and work ethic. But Christmas Brookens has the edge over her colleague Keith Koyano because of the perspective gained through varied experience — in the U.S. Navy, while stationed in Spain as an aviation electronics technician during the first Gulf War, and from training at the Defense Language Institute in Mandarin (she says she is also conversant in Korean, Japanese, Russian and Spanish). But she’s particularly impressive when discussing the role of victims in criminal cases, displaying a depth of thought and analysis that would likely make her excel on the bench.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-07/superior-court-endorsements)
She is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, the LA County Democratic Party, Ground Game LA, and the LA Times.
ABSTAINING: East Area Progressive Democrats and Action Cali have chosen to abstain.
“Brookens is “Well-Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
OFFICE NO. 124: KIMBERLY REPECKA
Almost everyone on the left seems to be in agreement that Kimberly Repecka is the best choice. However, I’ve included her opponent below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“According to the Commission on Judicial Performance… [the incumbent Emily Theresa Spear has engaged in] misconduct [which] includes… unauthorized absences, plus “disparaging remarks about a judicial colleague; discourteous conduct toward, and false statements to, her supervising judge.”…Spear’s challenger, Kimberly Repecka, is capable and well-regarded. She represented children in dependency court and now works as a deputy public defender. Repecka acknowledges that she is targeting Spear because of the incumbent’s misconduct, and because no one else stepped up to challenge her. But it’s not a grudge match; Repecka has never appeared in Spear’s courtroom. This is the first time in more than 30 years that The Times has recommended defeat of an incumbent judge. It’s not that Spear is the worst judge to come up for reelection in those decades. But she has shown herself to be unfit and she has been challenged by a better candidate. The Times recommends a vote for Repecka.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-06/incumbent-superior-court-endorsements)
She is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali, Ground Game LA, and the LA Times.
“Repecka is “Not Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
(Yes, I’m puzzled by this “Not Qualified” ranking too, but given that so many well-respected leaders have chosen to endorse her anyway, I’m going to assume this is not disqualifying.)
“I have served as a Judge of the Los Angeles Superior Court since 2018, and prior to my election to the bench, I was a Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney for over 11 years. As a Judge, I spent most of my time working in Family Law. I am currently assigned to Inglewood Court, where I handle all matters - criminal, civil and family. I try a dozen or more cases a week in a very busy courtroom. My experience also includes prosecuting gang crimes, crimes against children, sex crimes, and domestic violence. I have successfully prosecuted numerous gang members, murderers and serious and violent felons. It would be an honor and a privilege to continue to serve the citizens of this County as a Los Angeles Superior Court Judge.” (Source: https://www.spearforjudge.com)
She is endorsed by the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, Los Angeles Police Protective League, and the Long Beach Police Officers Association.
“Spear is “Not Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
OFFICE NO. 130: CHRISTOPHER DARDEN
There is a lot of disagreement on the left, because two well-qualified candidates are running. At first, I assumed I would support Leslie Gutierrez, because she is endorsed by many people that I respect, and Latina. But as soon as I learned about her history of getting endorsements from police unions, I decided to support Darden instead. However, I’ve included Gutierrez’ information below, so that you can decide for yourself.
“This race highlights one of the dangers of low-information elections: repeat candidates trying on a new face. Like many hopeful prosecutors this cycle, Leslie Gutierrez is touting Democratic Party endorsements and talking up progressive policies and her long-ago clerkship with the federal defenders office. In 2022, however, she unsuccessfully ran for judge with the backing of 11 different police unions. Knock LA does not forget… Christopher Darden is famous as one of the prosecutors on the OJ Simpson trial; he also has decades of experience in private practice as a criminal defense attorney.” (Source: https://knock-la.com/knock-la-voter-guide-march-2024-primary/#judges)
He is endorsed the LA County Federation of Labor, SEIU, and Ground Game LA.
“Darden is “Well-Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
“This is another race with two very different candidates, both of whom would make good judges. Private attorney Christopher M. Darden became a household name nearly 30 years ago as co-prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson murder trial… Voters have an even better choice, though, with L.A. County Deputy Dist. Atty. Leslie Gutierrez…Early in her career, she was assigned to be a filing deputy, giving her power to either reject cases police brought to the D.A., begin a prosecution or send the matter back for more evidence. The work at first disappointed her, because she wanted to try cases. But the task ultimately gave her enormous insight into the dynamics of successful prosecutions and the shortcomings in cases that police brought to her. When she finally became a felony prosecutor, she was ready to handle the most complex and sensitive cases... She would make a skilled and knowledgeable judge.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-07/superior-court-endorsements)
She is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, the LA County Democratic Party, East Area Progressive Democrats, and the LA Times.
“Gutierrez is “Well-Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
OFFICE NO. 135: GEORGIA HUERTA
There is some disagreement on the left regarding who to support, but I have chosen Georgia Huerta, because she is well-qualified, and a woman of color. However, I’ve included an alternate candidate below, named Steven Yee Mac, so that you can decide for yourself.
“Georgia Huerta is a leader with experience, integrity, and compassion ready to serve as Superior Court Judge. As deputy district attorney Georgia Huerta has tried 80 jury trials, from misdemeanors to special circumstances murder. Georgia Huerta has conducted hundreds of preliminary hearings, pre-trial and post-trial hearings… Community service is a part of who Georgia Huerta is because community programs helped provide for her family when she was a child. Georgia Huerta has volunteered for Project LEAD, a community- based program that helps educate 5th graders about the justice system for many years. Georgia Huerta is an active member of her church located in South Central Los Angeles… It was Georgia Huerta’s childhood experiences that directly fueled her passion to become an attorney. The child of a single mother growing up in South Central Los Angeles with her six siblings, Georgia watched firsthand the struggles within her community. Georgia Huerta became an attorney to make a real impact and help her immediate community and society. Georgia Huerta received an undergraduate degree from UCLA, a master’s degree from USC, and her law degree from Western State University, College of Law.” (Source: https://georgiahuertaforjudge2024.com)
She is endorsed by the LA County Democratic Party, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali and Ground Game LA.
“Huerta is “Well-Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
“The best of three candidates in this race is Deputy Dist. Atty. Steven Yee Mac, who became a prosecutor after serving in the U.S. military, first as an intelligence officer, and after law school as a member of the Judge Advocate General Corps, defending soldiers accused of misconduct and serving as a legal advisor to the Army. Mac has earned praise for his work as a trial lawyer.” (Source: https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2024-02-07/superior-court-endorsements)
He is endorsed by LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg and the LA Times.
“Yee Mac is “Well-Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
OFFICE NO. 137: LUZ HERRERA
Almost everyone on the left seems to be in agreement that Luz Herrera is the best choice.
“Luz Herrera is a nationally recognized attorney and law professor with a longstanding track record for advancing access to justice… After graduating from Stanford University and Harvard Law School, Luz honed her law skills at a large private… firm before turning to a career in public service… [After] setting up her solo practice in Compton, California in 2002, Luz… became the only Spanish speaking attorney [with] a private practice aimed at serving that fast-growing Latino community. She also created a model for establishing community-based legal services. Now celebrating its 18th year in service, Community Lawyers continues to serve the residents of Compton... The non-profit agency’s mission is to help people in underserved and under-resourced neighborhoods navigate the legal system in times of need. Luz Herrera grew up in a loving, working class family in Whittier, where she attended local public schools… She remembers the family often living paycheck-to-paycheck. To help make ends meet, the Herrera family would sell Mexican food products at the local swap meet by day and then clean office buildings by night. This experience led Luz to understand the hopes and needs of Angeleno families like hers. Luz has never forgotten her Los Angeles roots and her belief that all people deserve equal access to justice.” (Source: https://luzherrera.com)
She is endorsed by Reps. Katie Porter and Nanette Barragán, LAUSD Board President Jackie Goldberg, East Area Progressive Democrats, Action Cali and La Opinión.
ABSTAINING: Ground Game LA has chosen to abstain.
“Herrera is “Qualified” to be a judge.” (Source: LA County Bar Association)
DEMOCRATIC COUNTY CENTRAL COMMITTEE (AD 40-65)
As I’ve explained before in a previous piece: Every registered Democrat in California gets to vote for the members of this important committee. But first, WTF is it?
LAist has written an excellent explanation in “LA County Central Committees,” which includes a exhaustive list of candidates throughout LA County.
LA County Assessor (and former Mayor) Jeffrey Prang also has a great answer in Patch.com:
“Every two years on your Primary Election, registered Republican and Democratic party voters… see an office on their ballot so obscure and so little understood, almost no one can remember ever having seen it on their ballot or having voted for it previously, despite the fact that it has always been there. That office is called “County Central Committee …These Committees operate as the governing body for the party in the county. They are responsible for making endorsements of candidates and ballot measures and for conducting voter education and registration. The political party committees also coordinate grassroots campaign efforts, including phone banking, precinct walking, and the operation of campaign headquarters. The position does not provide compensation, and the Central Committees generally meet monthly and discuss the important political issues of the day.”
Or as CADEM puts it, “Your County Committee is the gateway to getting involved!”
I’m afraid I was only able to cover a handful of districts this time (see below). I will try to add as many as I can by Tuesday. Unfortunately CADEM and VotersEdge no longer provide information about who is running. But again, if you’d like to find out more about the candidates in LA County, I highly recommend this excellent article in LAist, “LA County Central Committees.”
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 40: Vote for these 7… DAVID HYMAN, ANDREW TABAN, MICHELLE ELMER, BETTY DOUMAS-TOTO, LYNNE PLAMBECK, JACK KAYAJIAN, and MICHELLE CAMPBELL
These 7 candidates identify as the Valley United Slate and Santa Clarita Valley Democrats. They are also all endorsed by Community Organizer Jackie Thomas.
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 41: Vote for these 6… KENNETH ARMSTRONG, TODD JONES, KIM BOWMAN, KAREN SUAREZ, KATHY PATTERSON and PATRICE MARSHALL MCKENZIE
These 6 candidates are all part of the same slate: California Progressive Democrats (AD41). They are also endorsed by Activist Jessica Craven.
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 44: Vote for these 7… CAROLYN M. HOFF, SHANNA INGELSBEE, ALTON F. REED, JOYCE M. RUBIN, BONNIE SHATUN, JERILYN V. STAPLETON and ANALISA SWAN.
These candidates are all endorsed by Activist Jessica Craven.
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 52: Vote for these 7… JESSICA CRAVEN, KOREEN CEA, NICOLAS GARDNER SERNA, DR. ROCIO RIVAS, JEANINE ROHN, MIA LIVAS PORTER and LUIS LOPEZ.
These 7 candidates are all part of the same slate: California Progressive Democrats (AD52). I can personally vouch for 3 of them (Jessica, Mia and Rocío), because I know them as activists and/or we are friends.
JESSICA CRAVEN:
“Jessica Craven is a community organizer, activist, proud mom to an LGBTQ kid, and elected member of the Los Angeles County Democratic Party. She’s a delegate to the California Democratic Party, a climate activist, and a grassroots volunteer who has knocked doors, phone-banked, fundraised, texted, and postcarded for hundreds of progressive candidates. She's also a political TikTok content creator and Substack author who has made it her mission to get regular people more engaged with politics on both a federal and local level.” (Source: http://www.teamad52.org)
MIA LIVAS PORTER:
“Mia Livas Porter is a mom, daughter of Filipino immigrants, and a survivor of gun violence. Mia is a long-time active Moms Demand Action volunteer and an Everytown National Survivor Fellow speaker on gun safety. As a statewide volunteer leader, Mia has led national and regional gun violence prevention and gun suicide awareness trainings. She also serves on the Board of Safer CA PAC. Mia is also a passionate advocate for public school equity, mental health awareness, our climate crisis, healthcare for all, affordable housing, and reimagining public safety. In 2022, Mia ran for the California Assembly for District 52 and earned 43% of the vote as a grassroots, clean-money candidate (MiaForAssembly.com). She is the current LACDP District Chair for AD52. Mia is the Gun Violence Prevention Chair for East Area Progressive Democrats, is the incoming Vice President of Democrats for Neighborhood Action (DNA), and a new board member of the Pilipino American LA County Democrats (PALAD).” (Source: http://www.teamad52.org)
DR. ROCIO RIVAS:
“Committed to creating strong neighborhood public schools that nurture our communities, Dr. Rivas brings her own experience as an immigrant and a public-school parent to her work on the Board of Education. Grounded in both a global and local understanding of public education, her academic training and professional work experience have been in education policy, research, and program evaluation. She holds a BA in Political Science and Development Studies from the University of California, Berkeley, with a minor in African-American Studies, and a PhD in Comparative and International Education with a Political Sociology emphasis from Columbia University.” (Source: http://www.teamad52.org)
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 54: Vote for these 4… SARA HERNANDEZ, ESTHER LIM, JOHN YI and CARLOS MONTES
These 4 candidates are all part of the same slate: California Progressive Democrats (AD54).
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 55: Option #1: Vote for these 7… ILISSA GOLD, LEAH PRESSMAN, FREDDY PUZA, JEFF SCHWARTZ, JIMMIE WOODS-GREY, AARON ORDOWER and PAMELA R. SPARROW
Option #1: These candidates are all endorsed by Activist Jessica Craven.
Option #2: Vote for these 7… LINDSAY CARLSON, MARY GRACE BARRIOS, JIMMIE WOODS-GRAY, PAMELA R. SPARROW, VILMA DAWSON, ROSA M. RUSSELL and SARA ROOS
Option #2: These candidates are all part of the same slate: Women United for Democracy. They are also endorsed by Activist Sara Roos.
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 65: Vote for these 7… JANA ABULABAN, CRYSTAL LA TOYA FAIRELY, JENNIFER FLORES, CARRIE SCOVILLE, FARAZ RIZVI, TIFFANIE NOELLE SMITH and FATIMA IQBAL-ZUBAIR
These candidates are all endorsed by Activist Jessica Craven.
Again, if I’m missing your district and you live in LA County, I highly recommend using this excellent article in LAist, “LA County Central Committees,” to research your options.
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Make sure to vote! Remember, you can vote in person, or mail your ballot, or put it in a ballot drop box by March 5th.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
For more information, as well as additional endorsements (since I wasn’t able to cover every single race), here are some excellent resources:
NATIONAL
Ballotpedia
A non-partisan site that tracks every single election in the U.S., as well as who is funding or endorsing every single candidate and measure on the ballot.
Blue Voter Guide
A blue guide that lets you enter your address anywhere in the U.S. and find the candidates/measures on your ballot, as well as who has endorsed them.
CALIFORNIA
Cal Matters
A blue guide that tracks every single election in California and explains who is funding what, whom and why.
Courage California
A blue guide that provides progressive endorsements for elections in California and tracks who else has endorsed these candidates/measures as well.
Supreme Court of CA
A non-partisan site that provides bios and information about every single justice on the Supreme Court of California.
Vote 411
A non-partisan site that lets you enter your address anywhere in California and find the candidates/measures on your ballot, as well as who has endorsed them, their personal statements, links to their websites, and more.
LOS ANGELES
Action Cali
A progressive voting guide for Los Angeles that is really well designed and easy to navigate, but does not provide any explanations beyond endorsements.
East Area Progressive Democrats
A progressive voting guide created by an organization in Los Angeles that allows its members to vote on who/what they want to endorse, but does not provide any other explanations for these endorsements.
Knock LA
A progressive news site that provides detailed information and endorsements for everything on the ballot in Los Angeles; it is a journalistic project of Ground Game LA. I rely on them a lot when it comes to local candidates, where they really excel at providing relevant, current insights, and less so when it comes to federal or statewide ones, where I sometimes find their stances a little too hardline.
LA Forward
A progressive voting guide that provides information and endorsements for most of the candidates/measures in Los Angeles.
LAist: “Everything you need as you prep for the March 5 Primary Election”
A news site called LAist that provides non-partisan information for everyone in Los Angeles about how and where to vote, what is on the ballot, and who is funding what, whom and why.
LA Times
The paper of record for Los Angeles. I don't always agree with their endorsements because even though they skew blue, they tend to favor corporate interests more than I’d like. However, I love that they provide enough information for me to make an informed choice.
Los Angeles County Bar Association
A non-partisan organization that evaluates the qualifications of judges, and ranks them as “Exceptionally Well Qualified,” “Well Qualified,” “Qualified,” and “Not Qualified.”
Parents Supporting Teachers
An amazing organization in Los Angeles that advocates for public education and teachers. Their voting guide is really easy to navigate, but does not provide any explanations beyond endorsements.