Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo Announces Campaign for State Senate in District 26
Backed by Key Labor and Political Leaders, Carrillo Brings Bold Leadership for Workforce and Economic Development, and Affordable Housing
LOS ANGELES – Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo today announced her candidacy for California’s 26th State Senate District, a seat soon to be vacated by Senator María Elena Durazo. With a track record of championing economic justice, workforce development, affordable housing, and public safety, Carrillo enters the race with a coalition of influential endorsements, underscoring her commitment to delivering results for working families.
“We have an affordability crisis in California. People are having a hard time making ends meet, paying for gas or putting food on the table. In this pivotal moment for our state, we need bold leadership that can get to work on day one and understands that everyday people aren’t coming from the left or the right, but from the bottom up,” said Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo. “I’m running for State Senate because I know the struggles of everyday Californians first hand and I know what it takes in Sacramento to push for bold policies. There’s no time to waste, I'm ready to get to work.”
Carrillo’s campaign has generated the support of LiUNA Local 300, former Los Angeles Mayor and CA Assembly Speaker Antonio Villaraigosa, former State Senator Richard Polanco, Michael Lizarraga, President and CEO of TELACU, various members of the legislature including Assemblymember Alex Lee, Chair of the Progressive Caucus, who stated,
“California’s future depends on bold, progressive leadership that puts people first. Wendy Carrillo is a tireless advocate for economic justice, working families and vulnerable communities. I am proud to support Wendy for State Senate because she will continue our fight to protect our progressive values, expand workforce development, and create opportunities for upward mobility—regardless of income, class, or gender. Wendy has the vision and experience we need in Sacramento to uplift every voice across our state.”
Their endorsements reflect a shared vision for a more equitable California that prioritizes a life of dignity for all people. As a former undocumented child and first generation American, Carrillo has dedicated her career to uplifting underserved communities. During her tenure in the State Assembly, she worked to pass landmark legislation supporting healthcare access, workers’ rights, small businesses, affordable housing, and public safety reforms.
Carrillo’s campaign will focus on delivering real solutions to California’s most pressing challenges, ensuring that the voices of all constituents—especially working families, renters, and small business owners—are heard and represented in Sacramento.
Additional Quotes:
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa:
“I am proud to support Wendy Carrillo for State Senate because she has the experience, leadership, and proven track record to deliver real results for our communities. Now is not the time for on-the-job training, as an Assemblymember, Wendy has delivered on resources and millions of dollars in funding to Los Angeles to address some of the biggest issues that everyday Californians are facing. This moment calls for bold action on economic development, workforce training, and job creation. We must keep businesses in California, expand opportunities, and ensure that every Californian has access to good-paying jobs. Wendy has the experience, the vision, and the drive to make that happen, and I’m proud to stand with her in this race for State Senate.”
Sergio Rascón, Business Manager, LiUNA Local 300:
“Wendy Carrillo has been a true champion for workers and working families. At a time when the cost of living—rent, food, and basic necessities—continues to rise, we need leaders like Wendy who are committed to getting back to basics: ensuring that every Californian has access to good jobs, fair wages, feel safe in their own communities and have real opportunities to succeed. She understands that investing in workforce development and creating the next generation of skilled workers is essential to the future of our state. That’s why I’m proud to support Wendy Carrillo for State Senate—because she stands with working people, and she will fight to make the California Dream attainable for all.”
Michael Lizarraga, President & CEO, TELACU:
“Wendy Carrillo is a steadfast champion for economic development, affordable housing, and community empowerment. Her leadership in the Assembly has demonstrated a deep commitment to ensuring that our communities have access to good jobs, strong workforce opportunities, and the ability to achieve the American Dream. Now, more than ever, we need leaders like Wendy in the State Senate—leaders who will continue to fight for our families, invest in the future of our workforce, and expand opportunities. TELACU is proud to support Wendy Carrillo for State Senate.”
For more information about Wendy Carrillo’s campaign for State Senate, visit WendyCarrillo.com
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