Senate District 20
Political Party:
Democrat
Ballot Designation:
State Senator
Law Enforcement Contributions:
- California Association of Highway Patrolmen PAC
Background:
Senator Menjivar was elected to the Legislature in 2022 as an IJ Action endorsed candidate. Prior to joining the Senate, she was a US Marine and has worked as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
Senator Menjivar has had a very strong voting record on justice reform, earning an “A” on our Legislative Scorecard for the last 3 years.
Public Safety Platform:
On her campaign website, Senator Menjivar frames public safety as “Strengthening Community Safety Nets” and lists protecting CalWORKS, childcare, foster care, and food benefits as priorities. As Senator, she has also worked to secure investments in her district that are known to prevent incarceration, such as expanding interim housing for unhoused folks and building a job training center.
Because of her strong voting record, investments in prevention and care, and overall partnership with the community, IJ Action recommends voters re-elect Senator Menjivar.
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Website:
Political Party:
Democrat
Ballot Designation:
Community College Professor
Law Enforcement Contributions: Candidate has not raised any campaign funds as of 4/16/26
Background:
Roberto LaCarra is a former probation officer and instructor at Los Angeles Valley College focusing on criminal justice.
Public Safety Platform:
On public safety, LaCarra emphasizes his background with the LA County Probation Department and as a counselor with the Sheriffs Department. He does not offer any specific policy priorities, but simply states his goal is: “Ensuring public safety for residents and small businesses alike, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.”
Website:
Political Party:
Republican
Ballot Designation:
No Ballot Designation
Law Enforcement Contributions: Candidate has not raised any campaign funds as of 4/16/26
Background:
Tony Rodriguez is an Army veteran and neighborhood councilmember. He has previously run for City Council and State Assembly but did not win either seat.
Public Safety Platform:
On his campaign website, Rodriguez voices support for law enforcement, stating: “We must equip all officers who are expected to uphold the law with the tools necessary to ensure safety for themselves and the public. Administrators, desk officers, traffic police and our officers on the street must all be fully funded and supported. Allow our police to do their job and prosecutors to do theirs.”
Website: