Assembly District 56

No RECOMMENDATION

Political Party:

Democrat

Ballot Designation:

Assembly Member/Mom

Law Enforcement Contributions:

  • Sacramento County Deputy Sheriffs Association Political Action Committee
  • Peace Officers Research Association of California PAC
  • Long Beach Police Officers Association PAC
  • California Association of Highway Patrolmen PAC
  • San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Employees’ Benefit Association PAC
  • California State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police Political Action Committee

Background:

Assemblymember Lisa Calderon was first elected to the State Assembly in 2020, succeeding her stepson, Ian Calderon. Prior to running for the Assembly she was a Government and Policy Advisor at Edison International.

Since joining the Legislature, Assemblymember Calderon has not had a very strong voting record on justice reform. She earned a ā€œCā€ on our Legislative Scorecard in 2023 and 2024 and most recently earned a ā€œDā€ in 2025, only voting to support 3 of the 7 bills we prioritized.

Public Safety Platform:

While Assemblymember Calderon does not have a public safety platform on her campaign website, she does share that she has been endorsed by the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, California Highway Patrol, and Los Angeles Police Protective League, and has also received campaign contributions from several of these agencies.

Due to her poor voting record and strong support from law enforcement, IJ Action has no recommendation in this race

Website:

https://lisacalderon4assembly.com/

Political Party:

Republican

Ballot Designation:

Retired Teacher

Law Enforcement Contributions:

  • California Correctional Peace Officers Association (CCPOA) PAC
  • Peace Officers Research Association of California PAC (PORAC PAC)

Background:

Jessica Martinez is a longtime Whittier resident, educator, and community volunteer with a background in public service and civic organizations. She has worked in communications, the federal government, and public schools. She has also served on several regional boards and has been active in the Republican Party and civic groups.

Public Safety Platform:

Martinez has not published any public-facing materials regarding her public safety platform, but simply identifies as a Christian and Republican and has emphasized issues such as religious freedom, the right to life, gun rights, free enterprise, and limited government.

Website:

https://www.martinezforassembly.org/