One day after Asm. Devon Mathis (R–Porterville) announced his intent to retire from the California Legislature at the end of 2024, two candidates have already lined up to replace him.
Tuesday, Alexandra Macedo (R–Tulare) launched a bid for the 33rd Assembly District, joining labor activist Angel Ruiz (D–Tulare) in the race.
Driving the news: Macedo comes from an agriculture family, dating back to 1939 when the family founded livestock market Tulare Sales Yard.
- She graduated from Tulare Union High School before attending California State University, Northridge for her undergraduate education. She later attended San Joaquin College of Law to obtain her Juris Doctorate.
- Macedo is the president of Macedo Environmental Consulting, which works with various administrative agencies and government programs to provide environmental compliance assistance to the agriculture industry.
- Ruiz, a first-generation immigrant from Guatemala, has a background in civil and labor rights activism.
- His career in politics began with the Dolores Huerta Foundation.
The big picture: Macedo has already picked up the backing of the decade-long incumbent, Mathis. He announced his endorsement of the engineer and lawyer on Tuesday.
What they’re saying: “I am running for State Assembly to be a voice for the farmers, families, and small businesses of the Central Valley,” Macedo said. “It’s time we change the direction of our state by suspending the gas tax, passing policies that support our farmers, and creating more opportunities for hardworking people to get ahead.”
- Ruiz, in a statement following Mathis’ retirement announcement, said, “As we move into a new chapter for Assembly District 33, it’s vital to embrace innovative solutions that address our community’s unique needs. I am committed to dynamic and thoughtful leadership that ensures our district’s continued growth and success.”
