Pacoima has always taken pride in its political activism in this country. Now, with the election of Alex Padilla to the US Senate, one of the town’s prodigies has lifted the town to new heights.
His win as the first Latino elected to the US Senate from California cements his communities seat in the highest echelon of political power.
Padilla climbed the ranks beginning with being an aide to Senator Diane Feinstein and Tony Cardenas before seeking a city council seat. He became the youngest Los Angeles City Council president and was elected to the California senate in 2006. From there, he progressed to Secretary of State, holding that position from 2015-21.
In 2021, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed him to replace Sen. Kamala Harris when she became vice president elect in 2020 – and today Alex Padilla makes Pacoima proud as our first elected United States Senator.
Senator Padilla’s achievements provide unprecedented inspiration for children of all ages, genders and backgrounds in Pacoima. Many of us remember him from his San Fernando High School days when he played baseball, won homecoming king and was selected as most likely to win Nobel Prizes.
Senator Padilla has been a staunch supporter of the Pacoima Historical Society, attending many events over the years, while embracing Pacoima’s history and culture.