Governor Jerry Brown called for a special election on June 6 to fill the Congressional seat vacated by Xavier Becerra, a day after the former legislator took the oath of office as California’s Attorney General.
On Tuesday, the Sacramento-born son of Mexican immigrants became the first Latino to hold the office. The spot opened up after California’s former top lawyer, Kamala Harris, ran for and won a seat in the U.S. Senate.
So proud to be in the room this morning as my friend @XavierBecerra was sworn in as California’s next #AttorneyGeneral. #CALeg #AD53 pic.twitter.com/SOncsuv4hz
— Miguel Santiago (@SantiagoAD53) January 24, 2017
The Los Angeles Times reports that Becerra has already begun working with sheriffs across the state to discuss law enforcement issues.
The race to take Becerra’s former seat in the 34th Congressional District has become a crowded one, with The Times reporting that as many as 18 candidates are vying for the seat. Among them are Wendy Carillo and Maria Cabildo, two contenders with Boyle Heights roots.
Los Angeles City Councilman José Huízar –whose district includes Boyle Heights– considered joining the field but ultimately decided not to join the race. A primary election to narrow the field is scheduled for April 4.
The 34th Congressional District represents parts of downtown, east, and northeast LA including Boyle Heights, Chinatown, and Highland Park.
Photo above: Xavier Becerra meets with California Senate president Kevin De León. Photo from Kevin de León’s Twitter account.
