Coalition builder Sarah Rascón, a dedicated public servant with 15 years of experience serving the Northeast Los Angeles communities, is launching her campaign for California State Senate District 26.

Raised by her immigrant grandmother in El Sereno, Rascón relied on public elementary schools and social services to give her a strong start in life. She became the first generation in her family to graduate from college, and through internship opportunities, embarked on a career to help deliver resources and advance justice for Angelenos. Rascón is running for State Senate because she believes California needs to help lift up families who are experiencing the brunt of our economic, housing and environmental crises.

“Too many Angelenos are stretched thin. We’re working long hours, caring for our families, and contributing to our community’s well-being, yet no matter our income, we struggle with the rising costs of housing and health care. I’ve spent my career building coalitions and turning ideas from community members into projects that have improved community safety, climate resilience and educational outcomes. As your state senator, I’ll be a champion for amplifying the voices of working families and uplifting our underserved communities,” Rascón said.

Rascón has served as director of county and regional affairs for Mayor Karen Bass, deputy executive director for environmental equity with the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority and as a field representative for former Assemblyman Jimmy Gomez (D-Los Angeles). In the State Senate, Rascón will use her experience to ensure community members are heard and their ideas are translated into tangible solutions.

“Working together, we can help advance economic equity and social justice. In the State Senate, I’ll prioritize advancing policies that improve workforce development, housing affordability, environmental justice, educational opportunity, small business assistance and support for our entertainment industry workers,” Rascón said.

The 26th State Senate District is currently represented by California Sen. Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles), who announced her candidacy for Los Angeles County Supervisor and will not seek re-election to the Legislature. Senate District 26 includes Hollywood, East Hollywood, Hancock Park, Larchmont, Thai Town, Los Feliz, Koreatown and Wilshire Center. The Primary Election will take place on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.