A New Era of Leadership Focused on Justice, Equality, and Opportunity
Washington, DC, September 26, 2024 – Latino Victory Fund proudly announces its endorsement of an additional transformative slate of candidates for the 2024 election in California.
Each is poised to break barriers and champion the issues that matter most to their communities. These leaders are ready to confront the state’s most pressing challenges, from affordable housing to climate change, healthcare access, and social justice.
“California’s future depends on leaders who understand the needs of all communities, especially Latinos. These candidates are bold, innovative, and exactly what California needs right now. We are happy to endorse them and continue to work in California on building the bench and breaking barriers,” said Sindy Benavides, President and CEO of Latino Victory Fund.
Meet the Candidates: Bold Voices for Change
Franky Carrillo – California State Assembly, District 52
Franky Carrillo’s life story is one of resilience and determination. After being wrongfully convicted and spending 20 years in prison, Franky was exonerated and has since dedicated his life to reforming the very systems that failed him. He’s running for the California Assembly to ensure no one else falls victim to systems and to fight for key issues such as criminal justice reform, and equitable access to healthcare, housing and education.
Jillian Burgos – Los Angeles City Council, District 2
Jillian Burgos would be the first Afro-Latina to serve on the Los Angeles City Council, if elected. Raised by a single mother and grandmother in Cleveland, Jillian knows firsthand the struggles of marginalized communities and has dedicated her career to uplifting the voices of those who are often ignored. As a small business owner, essential worker, and lifelong renter, Jillian brings a unique perspective on economic issues and social justice to the table. She is ready to fight on behalf of her community to address the housing crisis, worker protections and electrification, and sustainability.
Ariana Arestegui – Garden Grove City Council, District 6
Ariana Arestegui is fighting to become the first LGBTQ+ woman and only the second Latina ever elected to the Garden Grove City Council. Born and raised in the district, Ariana is running to ensure that Latinos do not lose their voice in a rapidly changing community. Ariana is a champion on key issues like affordable housing, public safety, and economic development.
Sasha Renée Pérez – California State Senate, District 25
Sasha Renée Pérez, the Mayor of Alhambra, is a regional leader known for her fierce advocacy for equitable access to higher education and policies that uplift working families. Running for State Senate, Sasha aims to build on the progressive legacy of leaders like Congressman Adam Schiff, who has endorsed her candidacy. Sasha’s focus on homelessness, affordable housing, accessible education, and climate change are directly in tune with the needs of her constituents and we are thrilled to endorse her.
Ricardo Ortega – California Assembly, District 34
At just 24 years old, Ricardo Ortega is already making history as the first Latino and Democrat to win the primary for Assembly District 34, which has historically leaned Republican. Ricardo’s story as a former foster youth and his advocacy for vulnerable communities make him a standout leader who is determined to bring resources and opportunities to underserved areas and a leader ready to fight for key issues like economic development, healthcare infrastructure, and public resources.
Why These Endorsements Matter
Latinos represent over 39% of California’s population, but they remain underrepresented in leadership roles. Latino Victory Fund’s endorsements are about more than just electing individual candidates—they’re about building a movement of Latino leaders who will fight for justice, equality, and opportunity for all.
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The Latino Victory Fund is a progressive political action committee that aims to grow Latino political power by increasing Latino representation at every level of government—from the county board to the Senate to the White House.
