2026 CANDIDATES FOR LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL POSITIONS ON
CA primary election – june 2, 2026
this page will be fully complete by may 6, 2026
list of 50 endorsed candidates for june 2, 2026 primaries
Our endorsement is a testament that we view these campaigns aligned with our values and the candidates as allies of our community. California stands to benefit from their leadership and we encourage Iranian American voters in California to volunteer, donate and ultimately VOTE for them.
PRIORITIES
- Independent of AIPAC and special interest PACs, bringing unbiased leadership on civil rights and foreign policy issues critical to Iranian Americans.
- Concrete plans to address affordability — from universal healthcare and a wealth tax to lower housing and energy costs for working families.
- A 14-year record of climate advocacy and a clear plan for job creation, building a stronger economic future for all Californians.
Why are you running:
California should work for everyone — not just the wealthy — and he’s the only candidate with both the independence and the track record to make that happen. With Trump back in the White House, he sees California’s governor as the most critical line of defense for progressive values in America. As a billionaire who wants to tax other billionaires, Steyer runs as a self-described “class traitor” — someone who knows how the system is rigged and is uniquely positioned to dismantle it.
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State-wide position
PRIORITIES
- Support small businesses and economic growth
- Expand affordable housing and lower living costs
- Modernize government and improve efficiency
Why are you running:
I believe in the California dream.
I believe we have the power to have a state government that works for all of us.
And I believe that with more than two decades of proven, problem-solving experience, I can provide the leadership necessary to make California affordable again while maintaining our commitment to freedom, a healthy climate and quality education.
From my public service in state government, and my background in accounting, I know the state budget inside and out, and how to get the most value for your tax dollars. My experience in financial oversight and budgeting gives me a unique perspective on how to put these resources to work to make California a better place for you and your family – while holding our government accountable.
Learn More and Donate Here:
State-wide position
PRIORITIES
- Protect voting rights and expand voter access
- Increase transparency and accountability in government
- Encourage civic participation and voter engagement
Why are you running:
As Secretary of State, she has engaged in the fight to protect poll workers and election officials from partisan attacks and has fought to help Californians better understand our state’s electoral process. At a time when voting rights are under attack nationwide, Dr. Weber has stood strong against partisans who want to suppress the vote or distort the truth.
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State-wide position
PRIORITIES
- Fighting Trump & Defending California — Since Trump’s reelection, Bonta has filed or joined more than 50 lawsuits against his administration, defending immigrant communities, reproductive freedom, housing laws, and the environment against federal overreach
- Consumer Protection & Corporate Accountability — Taking on fentanyl traffickers, gun smugglers, price gougers, and corporate polluters — holding Big Pharma, greedy corporations, and special interests accountable to keep California safe and affordable.
- Protecting Civil Rights & Freedoms — Defending access to reproductive healthcare, the freedom to marry, and the rights of all Californians against unlawful power grabs wherever they appear.
Why are you running:
Rob Bonta never stops fighting for Californians. Attorney General Rob Bonta is running for re-election to protect our freedoms, defend our democracy, and stand up to abuse of power wherever it appears.
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State-wide position
PRIORITIES
- Expand affordable housing and first-time homebuyer assistance
- Create jobs and protect retirement security
- Expand healthcare and reproductive access
Why are you running:
Born and raised in San Francisco, Malia has seen how quickly our state is changing, and she is determined to fight for an equitable, healthy future for all Californians. As a working mom serving as the Chief Financial Officer of the world’s fifth-largest economy, Malia has made it a priority to manage the state’s financial resources with a focus on economic equality, financial accountability, and a fair tax structure for all Californians. As Controller, she sits on over 70 boards and commissions with authority ranging from affordable housing to crime victim compensation to land management.
Learn More and Donate Here:
https://www.maliacohenforca.com/
State-wide position
PRIORITIES
- Lower insurance costs and expand affordable coverage
- Guarantee fair and equal access to insurance services
- Speed up claims processing and hold insurers accountable
Why are you running:
A proven fighter against big corporations, Jane Kim is running for Insurance Commissioner to put people ahead of insurance company profits as premiums rise and coverage declines.
Learn More and Donate Here:
State-wide position
PRIORITIES
- Fully funding California’s public schools.
- Protecting civil rights, academic freedom, and inclusive curriculum.
- Strengthening the education workforce.
Why are you running:
I’m running because California deserves a State Superintendent who has actually been in the classroom and understands what students, families, and educators experience every day. I’m running to defend public education from censorship and political attacks, strengthen equity and civil rights in every district, and ensure every child, no matter their race, religion, immigration status, or zip code, has access to inclusive, high-quality public schools.
Learn More and Donate Here:
https://www.hendersonforcasuperintendent.org
State-wide position
PRIORITIES
- Increase public safety and neighborhood investment
- Expand affordable housing in underserved communities
- Support working families and equitable infrastructure development
Why are you running:
Nelson Esparza is a public educator and true son of the Central Valley. This deep connection to his community drove Nelson’s dedication to public service. Now, Nelson is running for the California Board of Equalization to protect the people of California, our values and tax dollars, so that our state can invest in our people, from education, to healthcare, public safety to economic development, and more
Learn More and Donate Here:
https://www.nelsonesparza.com/
District includes:
It spans 30 counties and encompasses 61% of California’s land area, stretching from San Bernardino County in the south all the way to the Oregon border. The 30 counties included are: Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Lassen, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Modoc, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Bernardino (partial), San Joaquin, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Solano, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tehama, Tulare, Tuolumne, Yolo, and Yuba.
PRIORITIES
- Expand affordable, transit-connected housing and community development
- Advance climate protection and environmental resilience
- Strengthen services for veterans, homeowners, and local communities
Why are you running:
A lifelong advocate for people in need, Sally has worked tirelessly, serving our communities by working to stop wage theft and empowering undocumented Californians, securing funding and access for teen pregnancy prevention and reproductive services, leading gun violence reduction measures, and working to provide effective compassionate aid to people that are homeless, or have been
forced into refugee or migrant status.
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District Includes:
Covers the California coast from north to south. District 2 is home to 10 million Californians living in 19 counties along the California coast, from Del Norte County to Ventura County. The 19 counties are: Alameda, Contra Costa, Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, San Benito, San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Sonoma, Trinity, and Ventura.
This district includes major metro areas such as the Bay Area (San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose), the Wine Country (Napa, Sonoma), the Central Coast (Monterey, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo), and the North Coast (Humboldt, Mendocino).
PRIORITIES
- Corporate Tax Fairness
- Protecting Taxpayers
- Transparency & Accountability
Why are you running:
Raised in Watts and shaped by a lifetime of public service as a police officer, city councilmember, nonprofit leader, and legislator, Mike Gipson is running to keep fighting for the communities that raised him. He will deliver real results on education, public safety, and economic opportunity for the 65th District.
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District includes:
The entire County of Los Angeles — With roughly 10 million residents, Los Angeles is one of the most populous single-county districts in any statewide elected body in America. Los Angeles County encompasses over 80 cities, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, Santa Monica, Compton, Carson, Inglewood, Torrance, El Monte, Pomona, and many more.
PRIORITIES
- Protecting Taxpayers from Fraud & Waste
- Holding Corporations & Utilities Accountable
- Standing Up for California Against Federal Overreach
Why are you running:
I am running for Board of Equalization to be your watchdog – fighting to make our tax system fair and equitable for everyday Californians while ensuring that big monied corporations pay their fair share. The Board of Equalization provides accountability for billions of dollars in property taxes, funding vital local services including schools, hospitals, libraries, parks, and emergency response. I will be your voice for tax fairness, protecting homeowners, renters, and small businesses while standing up to wealthy interests who get around the rules. My record shows that I care about working families and know how to ensure accountability at the Board.
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District includes:
Imperial, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, plus a portion of San Bernardino County.
PRIORITIES
- Combat climate change and protect natural resource
- Support job growth, infrastructure, and working families
- Expand affordable healthcare and rural health access
Why are you running:
Representing California’s great northern region in Congress is an honor and responsibility I will never take for granted. With so much at stake—rising costs for working families, attacks on democracy and the rule of law, the worsening climate crisis and more—the need for bold, effective, productive leadership is greater than ever.
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District includes:
Counties of Marin and Sonoma
PRIORITIES
- Lower living costs through affordable housing and renter protections
- Expand affordable healthcare and reduce prescription costs
- Strengthen public schools and increase access to higher education
Why are you running:
I’m fighting for the American Dream we all believed in! One where working hard means you can own a home, take care of your family, and retire with dignity.
We must get back to basics and that means serving the people we represent. I have done that on City Council and in our State Senate.
My job as your representative is to work for you, no one else.
Learn More and Donate Here:
District includes:
Alameda County
PRIORITIES
- Lower living costs through affordable housing and renter protections
- Expand affordable healthcare and reduce prescription costs
- Strengthen public schools and increase access to higher education
Why are you running:
Congressman Khanna is now serving his third term representing California’s 17th District, which covers communities in Silicon Valley. Khanna is the Deputy Whip of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, an Assistant Whip for the Democratic Caucus.
In Congress, Khanna is a progressive voice working to create good jobs and opportunities for people in the 17th district and across the country. He authored the Endless Frontier Act, which formed the basis for the sweeping CHIPS and Science bill signed into law by President Biden, to ensure that the United States remains a leader in science and technology in the 21st century and has championed a new economic patriotism to drive innovation and bring people together.
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District includes:
Fremont, Newark, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Santa Clara, North San Jose, and Milpitas.
PRIORITIES
- Lower costs and strengthen the economy for working families
- Expand immigrant rights and pathways to citizenship
- Invest in clean energy jobs and climate action
Why are you running:
Too often, we’re stuck with a false choice: fighting to defeat the chaos of the Trump era, only to elect the ineffectiveness of status quo Democrats who’ve forgotten how to deliver for families. We can’t afford more of the same: We need new ideas, new energy, and a new focus on getting big things done for everyday people.
The experience of fires in 2025 exposed a familiar failure: government too slow to respond and communities left disillusioned with their leaders.
I’m running for Congress to lower costs, build new housing, expand the film and TV industry in Los Angeles, keep our communities safe, and deploy the limitless potential of clean energy to reduce our electric bills.
Learn More and Donate Here:
https://www.jakelevineforcongress.com/
District includes:
Core Los Angeles Basin (urban/suburban LA) including area known as Tehrangeles, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Sherman Oaks, Woodland Hills, West Hills, Chatsworth, Northridge, Canoga Park, Reseda, Tarzana, Encino, Winnetka, Bel Air, Beverly Glen, Topanga, Simi Valley (expanded into this area)
PRIORITIES
- Regulate artificial intelligence and strengthen AI safety
- Combat climate change and expand clean energy policies
- Improve cybersecurity, national security, and veterans’ services
Why are you running:
Now more than ever, it is critical to actively participate in our democracy in order to ensure that our government reflects the needs of all Americans. Republicans in Congress have shown that they cannot be trusted to do what is best for our nation. From inciting an insurrection to denying basic science – their policies are as dangerous as their politics.
Now is a vital time for us to discuss how we can get involved and act to protect our nation. It is truly an honor to serve as your voice in Washington.
Learn More and Donate Here:
https://www.lieuforcongress.com/
District includes:
The 36th District covers coastal Los Angeles County, including major parts of the South Bay, Westside, and Palos Verdes Peninsula. Key incorporated cities and neighborhoods include:
Coastal/South Bay Cities: Santa Monica, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, El Segundo, Palos Verdes Estates, and Lomita. Westside/Interior Cities & Areas: Beverly Hills, parts of Culver City, and West Hollywood.LA Neighborhoods: Venice, Playa Vista, Westchester, Mar Vista, and West Los Angeles.
PRIORITIES
- Protect reproductive rights and expand healthcare access
- Advance environmental justice and Green New Deal policies
- Invest in affordable housing and criminal justice reform
Why are you running:
For Kamlager-Dove, the reason to run for congress is simple, it’s to make a difference. “You know, Congress is going to have a new look next year with so many retirements happening, I hope and plan to be part of a new wave of leadership being ushered in at the national level, poised to make a difference in my district, to help the state– to help the country.”
Senator Kamlager-Dove was elected to the California State Senate in a special election in March 2021. In this position, she has prioritized equity and authored proposed laws in the areas of criminal justice reform, public healthcare, environmental protection, and low-cost housing. Through her work, the country has seen the most transformative community corrections and legislation.
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District includes:
Culver City, Los Angeles Neighborhoods: Key areas include Downtown LA, West Adams, Mid-City, Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw, Leimert Park, Hyde Park, and areas like Jefferson Park and South Robertson. Unincorporated Areas/CDPs: Ladera Heights and View Park-Windsor Hills.
PRIORITIES
- Expand affordable housing and homelessness services
- Protect worker rights and support immigrant communities
- Advance environmental justice and public health access
Why are you running:
The working people of Southern California are under assault by the Trump Administration – and I won’t just stand by and let it happen. As the President attacks workers, immigrants, educators, housing that working people can afford, women’s reproductive rights, veterans’ services, labor unions, the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid/Medi-Cal – and democracy itself – we must fight back.
I’ve been standing up for the people – and against Trump – as a Supervisor, and now it’s time to campaign for the House and fight for the people and democracy in the Congress.
Learn More and Donate Here:
District includes:
PRIORITIES
- Reducing Inflation and the Cost of Living by taking back the U.S. Budget and reigning in damaging tariffs and stopping the trade war with our allies.
- Defending the Constitutional Republic by taking back 1st the House, all committee chairs, and serving subpoenas to lawbreakers within the government.
- Restoring subsidies and funding to the affordable Care Act and Medicaid by taking back the Ways and Means and Appropriations Committee’s and restoring urgently needed funding.
Why are you running:
I’m running for Congress because working families deserve representatives who have actually lived the consequences of the policies coming out of Washington.
Learn More and Donate Here:
https://www.joekerrforcongress.com/
District includes:
Anaheim Hills (eastern portion of Anaheim), Chino Hills, Corona (portions), Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Mission Viejo, Murrieta, Orange (portions), Rancho Santa Margarita,
Wildomar, Yorba Linda. Due to the mid-decade redistricting, the following cities are not included anymore: Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Hills
PRIORITIES
- Create clean energy jobs and support working families
- Expand healthcare, childcare, and family support programs
- Strengthen gun safety laws and violence prevention programs
Why are you running:
My mother brought me to this country and risked everything so I could succeed. I’m running for Congress so that every kid can have the same shot that she—and this country—gave me.
Robert was first elected to Congress in 2022 to represent California’s 42nd District. He now serves as the Top Democratic on the powerful House Oversight Committee, the first sophomore Democrat in more than a 100 years to lead a committee. Robert previously served as Mayor of Long Beach for eight years before coming to Congress.
Robert was the first immigrant and first LGBTQ mayor in the city’s history, and is the first LGBTQ immigrant to serve in Congress.
Now in Congress, Robert has remained a steadfast advocate for working class families, our environment and our democracy.
Learn More and Donate Here:
District includes:
Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Seal Beach, and Avalon.
PRIORITIES
- Expand affordable housing and reduce homelessness
- Strengthen consumer protections and financial regulation
- Increase economic oversight and government accountability
Why are you running:
After more than 35 years in Congress, 87-year-old Rep. Maxine Waters is not yet ready to ride off into the California sunset. If you take a look at my energy and what I do — I am Auntie Maxine. I’m the one who popularized ‘reclaiming my time.’ … I don’t know who’s got more energy, and more concerns.
Learn More and Donate Here:
citizensforwatersgotv@gmail.com
District includes:
South Los Angeles and Hawthorne, Lawndale, Gardena, Inglewood, Lomita, Torrance (portions), Los Angeles (portions, including the neighborhood of Westchester and LAX), Unincorporated communities in LA County
PRIORITIES
- Democracy and the Rule of Law
- Housing and Homelessness
- Healthcare and Reproductive Rights
Why are you running:
I ran for Congress because, as a first-generation, Korean American, I want my kids to grow up in the same California that attracted my parents and so many immigrants like them to come plant roots here—where everyone has a fair shot at the American Dream, where women have autonomy over their own bodies, we prioritize our environment and the safety of our children, and where we maintain the spirit of openness and innovation that makes America so special.
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District includes:
Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo, Tustin, Laguna Woods, Portions of Newport Beach and Mission Viejo
PRIORITIES
- Invest in clean energy, water infrastructure, and climate action
- Expand affordable housing and support working families
- Protect healthcare access and lower food and medical costs
Why are you running:
Mike Levin is focused on making positive change for the future. He works with members of both parties, bringing people together and building coalitions to make a real difference for our communities. At the same time, Mike understands the urgency to stand up for American values and democracy, which are under unprecedented assault by Donald Trump and his Administration.
Learn More and Donate Here:
District includes:
Southern California (Coastal Orange/San Diego Counties). Key Areas (San Diego County): Oceanside, Vista, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar, and Camp Pendleton. Key Areas (Orange County): San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, Ladera Ranch, Las Flores, and Rancho Mission Viejo.
PRIORITIES
- Expand affordable childcare, paid leave, and education access
- Lower living costs through housing and economic relief programs
- Protect reproductive healthcare and digital privacy rights
Why are you running:
Like many women running all across the country, this isn’t the path I had envisioned for myself. But this is the path that this moment demands. Because our future depends on it. Sara is a third-generation San Diegan, born and raised.Sara is a proud graduate of San Diego public schools. Now, more than ever, we need leaders who are willing to listen to each other, respect one another, and actually get something done.
I am running because we must act boldly to address climate change, end the epidemic of gun violence plaguing our schools and communities, fight for housing that’s affordable for everyone and health care as a human right, and defend access to reproductive care.
Learn More and Donate Here:
District includes:
- San Diego City Neighborhoods: Allied Gardens, Balboa Park, Bay Park, Clairemont, Grantville, Linda Vista, Mira Mesa, Miramar, Normal Heights, Paradise Hills, San Carlos, and Serra, Mesa.
- Incorporated Cities: El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove.
- Census-Designated Places: La Presa and Spring Valley.
PRIORITIES
- Affordability
- Justice
- Equality
Why are you running:
I am running to bring service-driven, accountable leadership that understands the challenges working families face. As a civil servant, labor leader, and working mom, I have seen how rising costs, housing unaffordability, and gaps in healthcare affect real lives.
I want to bring this real-world perspective to Sacramento to fight for policies that make life more affordable, protect workers, and strengthen communities. Most importantly, I aim to be a voice for those too often unheard, building an inclusive coalition and leading with integrity to ensure every family in AD-47 can thrive.
Learn More and Donate Here:
District includes:
Riverside County Cities: Banning, Beaumont, Calimesa, Cathedral City, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage
San Bernardino County Cities & Communities: Highland (partial), Redlands (partial), Yucaipa, Yucca Valley, Morongo Valley
Unincorporated Communities: Bermuda Dunes, Cabazon, Idyllwild, Joshua Tree, Mountain Center, Oak Glen, and Thousand Palms
PRIORITIES
- Invest in and strengthen public education
- Advance environmental justice and a union worker-led transition
- Build affordable housing and protect tenants
Why are you running:
Our communities deserve a leader who always serves our community first with conviction, courage, and integrity. Now more than ever it’s time to move forward with a bold vision that uplifts our teachers, students, unions, and working families while tackling our cost of living, building affordable housing, and responding to our infrastructure needs.
Learn More and Donate Here:
https://www.fatimaforassembly.com/
District includes:
Carson, Compton, North Long Beach, San Pedro, Harbor City, Harbor Gateway, Watts, Wilmington, and Willow brook.
PRIORITIES
- Affordability
- Public education
- Economic opportunity
Why are you running:
As a working class majority Latino district, living wage laws and investments in affordable housing are not truly prioritized. I am ready to work with my colleagues across the state to make sure that no one is forced to leave their homes in the 68th due to financial barriers. I’m in this race to protect my constituents – not to be beholden to special interest.
Learn More and Donate Here:
https://www.votejessielopez.com/
District includes:
Parts of Anaheim, Orange, and Santa Ana
PRIORITIES
- Promoting more robust public investment in the Westside
- Making the Westside affordable for all
- Create opportunities for all Angelenos to access and engage their government, rather than just the well-connected.
Why are you running:
Los Angeles and the Westside should be a place where everyone, regardless of income or background, can afford to live and thrive. Where every voice is heard. Where we celebrate our history and our culture, and fight for the creativity and diversity that we’re known for. Where every person has access to safe, affordable, and dignified housing. Where we protect our natural environment, invest in climate-friendly infrastructure, and build a city of clean air, water, and power.
Now more than ever, we must build a transparent, accountable government that serves all Angelenos.
Learn More and Donate Here:
District 11 includes:
- Coastal: Venice, Pacific Palisades, Playa del Rey, and Marina del Rey (partial).
- Inland Westside: Brentwood, Mar Vista, Del Rey, Sawtelle, West Los Angeles, and Playa Vista.
- South: Westchester and the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
