Sen. Gil Cedillo is running

CEDILLO ANNOUNCES RUN FOR 32nd CONGRESSIONAL SEAT, SEEKS TO CONTINUE SOLIS LEADERSHIP ON LATINO AND ECONOMIC ISSUES

(SACRAMENTO) - State senator Gilbert Cedillo (D-Los Angeles) today confirmed his intention to run for the 32nd congressional seat being vacated by Rep. Hilda Solis, the Obama administration choice for Secretary of Labor.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for Latinos and the working people of East Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley. Hilda Solis has been a strong leader on labor and economic issues for the 32nd District. As a candidate I seek to continue that focus, creating a competitive workforce, securing access to affordable healthcare and investment into public safety and transportation," shared Cedillo.

Cedillo has taken on a variety of issues during his legislative career. In 2008 he proposed legislation to provide college financial aid, housing assistance and medical support services to veterans returning from the Afghan and Iraqi wars. He has passed legislation to increase access to healthcare for the uninsured via community clinics and revitalize urban communities through investment.

His immigration reform proposals, licensing all drivers and higher education opportunities for immigrant students in line for citizenship, focus on rational solutions to national security and creating a viable, domestic workforce. The varied agenda has earned Cedillo a reputation for pragmatism, frequently working to find common ground among competing interests.

Cedillo's announcement follows an announcement by fellow state senator Gloria Romero (D-East Los Angeles) that she will not pursue the 32nd congressional seat. Sen. Romero, a lifelong education advocate and respected Latino leader, has given her endorsement to Cedillo. "I have evaluated the candidates who continue to seek this congressional seat and will be giving my endorsement to Senator Gilbert Cedillo. Senator Cedillo has been a forceful advocate for public safety and anti-gang initiatives. He has been tenacious in his advocacy for the rights and dignity of working families and the preservation of good middle-class jobs," said Romero.