→ One of the most significant races across the state, this Bay Area contest offers an opportunity to pick up a seat for the progressives. Liz Ortega is the clear progressive, pro-labor candidate. With a resume that includes Statewide Political Director for AFSCME Local 3299, and serving as the Executive Secretary/ Treasurer for the Alameda Labor Council, Liz is poised to champion policies that benefit working-class people. Her opponent for the seat is Dublin City Councilmember Shawn Kumagai, whose campaign has been funded by corporate donations. Chevron, Edison, Davita, Uber, Phillip Morris. These are some of the companies funding Shawn’s campaign, and the companies he’ll be beholden to if he were to join the Assembly. With Assemblymember Bill Quirk vacating the seat, it’s important that a progressive take his place. Someone who aligns with the values of Bay Area residents–not with corporate interests.