Rivas to Enter Crowded Race for 29th District Seat
Assemblymember Luz Rivas, a Democrat representing North Hollywood, has declared her intention to run for Congress. This sets the stage for a potentially competitive race to replace Tony Cárdenas as the representative for California’s San Fernando Valley-based 29th District. Cárdenas, who has confirmed he will not seek reelection in 2024, has already pledged his endorsement for Rivas to succeed him in Washington.
Rivas Aims to Address Dysfunction and Focus on Constituents’ Needs
In a recent phone interview, Rivas, 49, expressed her frustration with what she referred to as the “constant state of dysfunction” within the Republican Party. She believes that her constituents deserve a member of Congress who will prioritize their needs, as she has done during her time in the state Legislature. If elected, Rivas will become the first Latina to represent the district in Washington. Cárdenas, the current representative, became the first Latino to hold the seat in 2012.
A Proven Track Record and Endorsement from Cárdenas
Rivas, a native of the San Fernando Valley, joined the state Legislature in 2018 following the resignation of Raul Bocanegra. She gained recognition for her leadership of DIY Girls, a nonprofit organization that empowers young girls to pursue careers in science, engineering, and technology. Rivas received numerous calls urging her to run for office after Bocanegra’s departure, which led her to realize that she could continue her advocacy for girls in science through public service. Cárdenas commended Rivas’s dedication to serving the Valley and emphasized her ability to get things done, placing working families at the forefront.
A Focus on Climate Change and Restoring Confidence
During her time in the state Legislature, Rivas chaired the Natural Resources Committee, enabling her to leverage her scientific background to address the impacts of extreme heat in her community. She has also successfully secured millions in funding for her district and authored numerous bills that have become law. Rivas sees running for Congress as an opportunity to tackle climate change through federal legislation and restore faith in the House of Representatives. She hopes to earn the endorsements of elected officials and community leaders as she embarks on her campaign.