Jessie Lopez

Jessie Lopez was born in Santa Ana, California. She earned a high school diploma from Santa Ana High School, an associate degree from Santa Ana College, and a bachelor's degree from California State University, Long Beach. Her career experience includes working in government.[1][2]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Jessie Lopez, a proud daughter of working class immigrants. I attended our public schools and worked two jobs to put myself through college. I know firsthand how hard it is for working families to afford rent, healthcare, and everyday essentials, and I believe California must do better.

As your Councilwoman, I have built a record of delivering real results. I led efforts to cap excessive rent increases, protect seniors from eviction, and passed a lobbyist transparency law to crack down on pay to play politics. I have secured millions of dollars for infrastructure improvements and brought forward policies month after month that improve daily life for residents. I have also worked to tackle homelessness by bringing in caseworkers, expanding services, and focusing on real solutions.

I am running for State Assembly because working people are being priced out while too many politicians answer to corporate donors. I will fight for Medicare for All, lower the cost of living by building truly affordable housing, stop corporations from buying single family homes, stand up to wage theft, fully fund public education, take real action to address homelessness, and continue standing up to Trump.

This campaign is about whether working families will be able to afford to live and thrive in California.

I have never backed down from powerful interests, and I will not start now. I will be a strong voice you can trust to fight for us every single day and deliver results.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

While too many politicians offer talking points, I have delivered real results to lower costs for working people. I passed policies to rein in rent increases, protect seniors from eviction, and deliver real relief. In the Assembly, I will build affordable housing, stop corporations from buying up single family homes, and hold bad actors accountable for wage theft. In the fourth largest economy in the world, working families should not be struggling just to stay afloat, and I will fight to change that.I believe the basics of a good life should be guaranteed, not out of reach. That means Medicare for All so no one goes into debt to see a doctor, and fully funding our public schools so every child has a real opportunity to succeed. I will invest in youth programs that prevent violence and create pathways to good jobs. These are practical, common sense solutions that put people first and save taxpayer dollars over time by reducing emergency healthcare costs, homelessness, and incarceration.I’m not backed by corporate interests unlike my opponents, and I don’t answer to them. I have taken on powerful insiders and delivered, and I will do the same in Sacramento. I will tackle homelessness with real solutions like housing, mental health services, and caseworkers who help people get back on their feet, protect our environment, and demand a government that is transparent and accountable to the people. I’m running to represent our communities in Sacramento because I believe government should be a force for good. I will be a strong, independent fighter who stands up for working families every single day and delivers results you can see.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about helping people succeed and making sure everyone has a fair chance at stability and opportunity. The issues I focus on, housing, education, economic opportunity, small business support, and government transparency, all connect to that goal. Housing stability is critical because when families are priced out, communities suffer through school closures, loss of local jobs, reduced economic activity, and weakened neighborhood culture. I also focus on economic opportunity because California is one of the most expensive states in the country, and working people need pathways to build stable lives. Strong public schools and support for small businesses are essential, and I believe government must be transparent.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to my mother. She raised me as a single parent, often working multiple jobs just to make ends meet, and yet she never lost sight of what mattered most—raising me with compassion, integrity, and resilience. She is one of the hardest-working and most tenacious people I know, a true go-getter who leads with both strength and love.

What I admire most about her is not just her perseverance, but her ability to remain kind, present, and deeply empathetic despite the challenges she faced. She taught me that strength is not just about endurance, but about how you treat others along the way. Her example continues to guide how I show up in my work and in my community.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Elected officials must embody integrity, accountability, empathy, and a genuine commitment to public service. It's crucial that they do not harbor dangerous racist views that undermine the very communities they seek to represent. Leaders should prioritize collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability to effectively address the needs of all constituents. Ultimately, elected officials should work towards fostering inclusivity and ensuring that every voice in the community is heard and valued.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities of an elected official include managing the budget effectively, being responsive and honest with the public, and respecting constituents regardless of disagreements. Engaging with the community is essential, along with being ready to work and standing alone on important issues when necessary. It takes courage to always do the right thing, even under immense pressure, as our job is to make life easier for our families, not harder.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I don’t think about legacy in terms of recognition or personal achievement. What matters most to me is how I show up for others. I want to be someone who is consistently kind, dependable, and committed to getting things done in service of my community.

If there is a legacy I hope to leave, it’s one rooted in care - ensuring that people feel supported, seen, and valued, especially those who have historically been overlooked or marginalized. I know what it feels like to lack support, and that experience drives my commitment to building stronger, more connected communities where no one has to navigate hardship alone.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job was at the age of 13. My sister and I use to work at the OCC swap meet to support small business owners. I would wake up at 5 AM to make 60 dollars per day. We would sell different merchandise, help with the set-up and clean up, and ride back home in the back of a cargo truck. I will never forget this experience and I'm thankful to the Contreras family for allowing us to help.

I have grown up seeing my parents work two to three jobs throughout my life, and this is where I get my work ethic from. This is what you can expect from me: someone who will always be prepared, ready to get to work, and deliver for our communities.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One of the most defining struggles in my life has been the experience of family separation. My mother immigrated to this country out of necessity, fleeing the impacts of civil war, but in doing so she had to leave behind her family - her mother, siblings, friends, and the life she once knew.

Growing up, I felt the weight of that separation. I felt disconnected from my extended family, my cultural traditions, and at times even my language and sense of belonging. That absence shaped my understanding of how deeply policies and global conflicts can affect not just individuals, but entire generations.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to better understand the emotional toll that separation must have taken on my mother. It’s a realization that has profoundly shaped my values and my advocacy. It is why I am so committed to policies that keep families together and why I believe we must never normalize the separation of families under any circumstances. Abolish ICE!

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature is one grounded in mutual respect, accountability, and a shared commitment to serving the public. While they have distinct roles, both branches must work collaboratively to develop and implement policies that reflect the needs and priorities of the people.

At the same time, a healthy balance of power is essential. The legislature should act as a strong, independent body that represents the diverse voices of the state, while the governor provides leadership and vision.

When functioning well, this relationship is not about agreement on every issue, but about constructive engagement, where debate, oversight, and cooperation ultimately lead to stronger, more effective governance.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

One of the most pressing challenges facing California is affordability, specifically whether working people will continue to be able to live and thrive here. The rising cost of housing, utilities, insurance, healthcare, and basic necessities is pushing too many families to the brink, and in some cases, out of the state altogether.

At the same time, there is a growing concern that policy decisions are too often influenced by powerful corporate interests rather than the needs of everyday residents.

Addressing this imbalance will be critical. California leadership must confront the question of who the state is truly working for and take bold steps to ensure that working families are not left behind.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Compromise can be a practical part of policymaking, but it should never come at the expense of our most fundamental principles. There are certain issues - such as protecting human dignity, ensuring economic security, and safeguarding people from harm - where the goal should not be to dilute solutions, but to meet the urgency of the need.

Effective governance requires collaboration, but it also requires clarity of values. When we know what is necessary to support people and create equitable systems, we should be willing to fight for those outcomes.

Compromise should be a tool for progress, not a justification for maintaining injustice or falling short of what communities truly need, which is what we often hear from too many elected's today.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Chirla Action Fund, California Nurses Association, Latinas Lead, California Environmental Voters, Jane Fonda PAC, California Legislative Women’s Caucus, California Legislative Progressive Caucus, California Working

Families Party, Anaheim Democrats.

Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Dolores Huerta, Kris Erickson (OUSD)

More: https://www.votejessielopez.com/endorsements/

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Jessie Lopez, a proud daughter of immigrants, born and raised in Santa Ana. I attended our public schools—Hoover, Willard, and Santa Ana High School. During my time in college, I worked tow jobs to pay for my education and helped organized campaigns against sexual assault and fought for accessible, affordable education for all.

Before entering public office, I worked in corporate law firms, where I developed problem-solving skills and learned to deliver real results. I’ve always been dedicated to my community, advocating to preserve public land and green spaces in our park-poor city, while pushing for greater transparency in government.

As a councilwoman, I’ve worked to improve the infrastructure of Ward 3 by repairing streets and sidewalks, making parks safer, and securing millions in funding for new bathrooms, resurfaced basketball and tennis courts, and lighting projects. I also revitalized our downtown area, delivered $3 million to support small businesses, led the city through the pandemic, and approved outdoor dining initiatives. Additionally, I am focused on reducing homelessness and preventing unlawful evictions, showing compassion while holding individuals accountable. I supported solutions like CARE Court and advocated for Prop 1 to bring more funding for mental health services.

I proudly represent working families and will continue fighting for a brighter, more equitable future for Santa Ana.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Building affordable housing is essential for preventing homelessness. By ensuring that residents are not unlawfully evicted, we protect families from falling into crisis. Investing in mental health services and providing housing for veterans not only supports those in need but also enhances the overall quality of life in our community. Additionally, workforce housing can address economic stability, allowing families to thrive. This approach also gives younger generations the opportunity to stay in Santa Ana, helping to reduce overcrowding in our neighborhoods. Each of these elements is interconnected; when we prioritize affordable housing and support systems, we create a safer, more equitable community for everyone.My focus will be on stabilizing our budget in light of the projected $30 million loss over the next five years and a staggering $90 million loss when the sales tax sunsets. We must cut back on spending, learn to live within our means, and proactively plan for this financial shortfall. The time to start saving money is NOW. We need to identify sustainable revenue sources to overcome this deficit, which will undoubtedly impact our quality of life.

My re-election is crucial because I am well-versed in the city’s finances and have delivered a responsible budget each year in office. Without sound financial management, we cannot provide essential services to our community.Public safety and youth investment are vital to our community's well-being. I'm proud to report that overall crime in Santa Ana has significantly decreased, largely due to our investments in after-school programming, K-12 education, and gang prevention initiatives.

In 2022, Santa Ana experienced a 12% drop in overall crime compared to the previous year. Violent crimes decreased by 8%, with reductions in robbery and aggravated assault. Property crimes, including burglary and auto theft, also fell, with auto theft down by 15%.

To sustain this positive trend, we must continue funding these essential services and ensure our Police Department effectively supports our constituents.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am personally passionate about housing because, as a college student, I experienced housing insecurity firsthand. I had to sleep on my campus at times because I prioritized my education while working two jobs. This experience deeply influenced my understanding of the challenges many face today.

I see daily the consequences of not building enough affordable housing and the impact of unfair evictions. These issues destabilize our students' learning environments and harm our entire community. When we fail to meet the demand for lower housing costs, we jeopardize the futures of our residents. This drives my commitment to advocate for housing solutions that create stability and opportunity for all.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

To truly understand my political philosophy, I encourage you to listen to my parents' life story. Their experiences shape my perspective and remind me never to forget where I come from. I believe that no one should be left behind in our community.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Elected officials must embody integrity, accountability, empathy, and a genuine commitment to public service. It's crucial that they do not harbor dangerous racist views that undermine the very communities they seek to represent. Leaders should prioritize collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability to effectively address the needs of all constituents. Ultimately, elected officials should work towards fostering inclusivity and ensuring that every voice in the community is heard and valued.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I’m a hardworking individual deeply committed to my city, where I was born and raised. Honesty guides my actions, and I believe in using my position to uplift my neighbors, not to wield power over them. I’m driven by a genuine love for my community and a desire to see it thrive. My focus is on fostering positive change for all residents, ensuring that everyone feels valued and heard.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities of an elected official include managing the budget effectively, being responsive and honest with the public, and respecting constituents regardless of disagreements. Engaging with the community is essential, along with being ready to work and standing alone on important issues when necessary. It takes courage to always do the right thing, even under immense pressure, as our job is to make life easier for our families, not harder.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

9/11

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I started working at 13 at the swap meet, waking up at 5 AM to support micro businesses. I held that job for about two years, working with my best friend’s family, who owned a small business on 17th Street. In high school, I began working at the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Ana, where I supported small children with their homework and provided guidance.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I have too many favorites to list, but I really love All About Love and Pachinko. Right now, I’m enjoying Your Face Belongs to Us by Kashmir Hill. Each of these books resonates with me for different reasons, and they all offer unique perspectives on love, identity, and community.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Hunger by Rhye

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

This office is incredibly demanding, representing over 26,000 registered voters across a large area. One lesser-known aspect is the sheer volume of reading required to effectively serve the community—I'm talking about countless staff reports, housing finance documents, and budgets, some of which can exceed 1,000 pages. It’s essential for me to stay informed about the day-to-day realities in our neighborhoods, which is why I rely on my community to share their insights and concerns. Understanding the complexities of these reports is crucial to making informed decisions that truly benefit our residents.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Absolutely, it is crucial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government. As we head into challenging financial times, we need trusted and experienced leadership. I have demonstrated my ability to manage crises like the pandemic effectively and have consistently proven my capability in handling taxpayer dollars responsibly. Understanding governmental processes and building strong relationships with other officials are essential to navigate complex issues and deliver real results for our community. Experience matters, especially when it comes to making informed decisions that impact the lives of our residents.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the local government?

This office is unique and vital because it directly impacts the lives and livelihoods of our residents. We need a government that prioritizes people-centered approaches; when we lose sight of this, it can lead to significant negative consequences for our community. Understanding the needs and challenges faced by our constituents is essential, as it ensures that our policies and actions genuinely serve their interests. When we focus on the well-being of our community, we can create a healthier, more supportive environment for everyone.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Congresswoman Katie Porter

Orange County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento

State Senator Umberg

State Senator Newman

Sierra Club

Orange County Firefighters Association

Orange County Labor Federation

Planned Parenthood Action Fund

Women in Leadership

Laborers International Union of North America

(LiUNA Local 652)

Democratic Party of Orange County

Orange County Young Democrats

Orange County Lavender Democrats

MOMS Demand Action

Working Families Party

Sheet Metal Workers 105

SEIU Local 721

National Union of Healthcare Workers

SEIU United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU -UHWW)

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are of the utmost importance and non-negotiable in my view. As elected officials, we are entrusted with taxpayer money, and it is our duty to manage these funds responsibly and ethically. Transparency ensures that constituents can see how their hard-earned dollars are being spent, fostering trust and confidence in government. Accountability means we must answer for our actions and decisions, ensuring that we prioritize the community's best interests. I am committed to upholding these principles to create a government that is not only effective but also deserving of the public's trust.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Jessie Lopez is a proud lifelong resident of Santa Ana. She graduated from SAUSD schools (Hoover, Willard, SAHS, SAC) and CSULB while working two jobs, becoming the first in her family to graduate from college. Jessie built her professional career working in high profile law firms. During her time off, she volunteers with the Public Law Center as a Spanish interpreter and with the Rise Up Willowick coalition, fighting for community-driven development and fighting for environmental justice. Jessie has been a community activist, providing a voice for Santa Ana's diverse community because she knows that those closest to the problems are closest to the solutions.

Jessie will never stop fighting for attainable housing, reducing homelessness, increasing transparency, protecting our environment, and supporting youth programs to create a safe and vibrant Santa Ana.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Reduce homelessness by investing in mental health and addiction treatment, expanding job training, decriminalizing, and providing help to those in danger of becoming homeless.End Homelessness Protecting our environment by making smart investments in a green economy & continue fighting to protect our public lands and green space.Make city hall work for us by ending corruption and ensuring that our community is centered in the decision-making processes. Politicians are supposed to represent us, not their donors. Jessie will be accountable to you - not special interests.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

COVID RECOVERY: It is critical that we reduce community spread and allow our businesses to open up. We must be bold and visionary in how we reimagine our economy to support small business owners while protecting the public health of our residents.

As a young working professional, Jessie understands the day-to-day realities that Ward 3 families face. Jessie will represent our working families by supporting policies that reinforce her commitment to finding viable solutions for affordable housing. and a community where our working families, our teachers, our small business owners, among others, can afford to live, work, and play. Jessie believes our working families enrich our community and she will ensure that Santa Ana is equitable and livable for all.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job was at the age of 13. My sister and I use to work at the OCC swapmeet. I would wake up at 5 AM to make 60 dollars per weekend. We would sell different merchandise, help with the set-up and clean up and ride back home in the back of a cargo truck. I will never forget this experience and I'm thankful to the Contreras family for allowing us to help.

I have grown up seeing my parents work two to three jobs throughout my life, and this is where I get my work ethic from. This is what you can expect from me: someone who will always be prepared and ready to get to work.