Fil-Am gains more support as California Assembly candidate

A win would make the Philippine-born Caloza the first Filipina woman in the State Assembly, that has only seen two Filipino members in its history. 

LOS ANGELES — After months of campaigning, Filipino-American Jessica Caloza is making one last push for votes as a candidate for California Assembly. 

"I feel good, but it’s also my first time running for office so I’m working hard, putting my head down with all of our volunteers, our entire team to make sure that we get the word out that people could vote any day. They should vote now," she said.

Caloza has earned the support and endorsements from many high profile officials, lawmakers, including some 30 assembly members, and Attorney General Rob Bonta whom she serves as a deputy chief of staff for.

A handful of US Congress members as well as community, labor, and democratic organization have also endorsed the former Los Angeles public works commissioner. 

Despite the support of these big names and groups, Caloza said she finds inspiration from the residents of California’s 52nd Assembly District which covers parts of Glendale, Eagle Rock, and East Los Angeles.

"The most important endorsements come from my neighbors, everyday working class people who are here on the ground telling us the issues that impact their quality of life, and what we can do together in the assembly and the opportunity," she said.

A win would make the Philippine-born Caloza the first Filipina woman in the State Assembly, that has only seen two Filipino members in its history.

For young Asian American community leaders, Caloza’s history at all levels of government has earned their trust.

"Jessica is one of these candidates who’s all around the community and she knows what she’s doing. As high school students, education is a big issue for us, and she worked for president Obama in the department of education so she’s tackled a lot of these critical issues. We know she’ll be a champion for young people in the state legislature," said Amir King of California High School Democrats

There are a total of 10 candidates vying for the seat. 

Caloza is among 8 Democrats running for the seat.

The race also includes one Republican and one Green Party member. The top two finishers of the March 5th primary election will then face off in the November general election.