WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO RUN? WERE THERE ANY BARRIERS YOU HAD TO OVERCOME TO DO SO?

My main priorities are supporting small businesses and families, slowing climate change, and reforming the criminal justice system. I’m also proud to say that I would be the very first openly LGBTQIA+ member of the La Mesa City Council and the first Gen-Z elected official in the city of La Mesa.

WHY DO YOU THINK CLOTHING AND SELF-PRESENTATION MATTER ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

Whether conscious or not, people’s voting decisions are influenced by external appearances. Women especially are under immense pressure to look simultaneously attractive, modest, professional, and interesting. As a young minority who makes under 80% of the median income in my area, I’ve experienced overt discrimination based on my clothing.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CONSIDER WHEN DRESSING FOR THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

I have two: I want to be both memorable and professional. I want to wear things that people will remember, but I also want to ensure folks see me as professional and trustworthy.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO RUN? WERE THERE ANY BARRIERS YOU HAD TO OVERCOME TO DO SO?

Witnessing disparities and barriers in my community directly fueled my passion for advocacy and grassroots organizing, and running for office is a deeply personal journey rooted in my experiences as a first-generation American woman. Despite knowing I would face additional hurdles, I refused to let stereotypes deter me from pursuing my passion for serving others and creating meaningful change.

WHY DO YOU THINK CLOTHING AND SELF-PRESENTATION MATTER ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

How you present yourself during a campaign really does matter, because your appearance is an expression of who you are and what you stand for. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it boosts your confidence, and that confidence shines through when you’re talking to voters. Picking the right outfit isn’t just about style; it’s about showing the world the best version of yourself.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CONSIDER WHEN DRESSING FOR THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

Sometimes, campaigning makes me feel insecure. I want my clothes to look nice and professional, but I also want to feel secure and safe in my clothing.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO RUN? WERE THERE ANY BARRIERS YOU HAD TO OVERCOME TO DO SO?

I’m running for State Senate to build a California that works for everyone—not just those at the top. As Senator, I’ll fight to make housing a right, invest in mental health services, bolster infrastructure projects, make higher education more accessible, address climate change, safeguard abortion rights, reform the justice system, and ensure workers can organize unions as a means to have a voice in the workplace.

WHY DO YOU THINK CLOTHING AND SELF-PRESENTATION MATTER ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

Before you speak, your clothing and self-presentation enter the room first, so it’s imperative that we show up dressed in put-together attire if we want to be taken seriously. When I’m well-dressed, I’m more confident, self-assured, and prepared to address our communities.

As a champion for women’s rights for over 30 years, I know that we do not have the same respect, resources, opportunities, or campaign funding as our male counterparts. We always have to be bold, exceptional leaders for our voices to be heard, respected, and accepted. That’s why programs that help to level the playing field, like Ready to Run, are so important.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CONSIDER WHEN DRESSING FOR THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

There are a few things I consider: My clothing selection, hair, make-up, and even perfume. When I look and smell good, I feel confident and present well.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO RUN? WERE THERE ANY BARRIERS YOU HAD TO OVERCOME TO DO SO?

I needed to be encouraged by recruiters, friends, and community members before I made the decision to take this huge step. I know I’m not alone in this experience, because according to statistics, women need at least seven conversations to be persuaded to run for office.

My district includes South LA, the poorest area in all of Los Angeles County. More than 82% of residents are Black or Brown, and at least 80% have an annual household income of less than $50,000. The long-term economic consequences of historic redlining are experienced daily by the people of District 57. They deserve better, so I am running for office to put their needs first.

WHY DO YOU THINK CLOTHING AND SELF-PRESENTATION MATTER ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

I grew up admiring my mother’s work. She came to this country from Guatemala. Through her dedication to the community, she rose to lead ¡Adelante Mujer Latina!, while raising 3 girls on her own. She was a pantsuit-and-stilettos-wearing superhero to me. She was always my role model in terms of what to wear as a professional woman, and I take inspiration from her in the way I dress now. When you look good, you feel good.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CONSIDER WHEN DRESSING FOR THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

My audience is incredibly important to me because I am an organizer. I understand the impact and importance of looking my best in all spaces and recognize that what I wear helps me connect with the people I’m speaking to. We (especially women) are judged by what we wear, so I’m thoughtful about how I present myself.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO RUN? WERE THERE ANY BARRIERS YOU HAD TO OVERCOME TO DO SO?

As a healthcare worker, I’ve met people at their most vulnerable and heard their stories. These stories have offered different perspectives and experiences; these stories come from those who aren’t always represented at the table where decisions are made. At first, I felt like I was dragging my own folding chair up to a table where people who didn’t look like me sat. However, after lots of reflection, I now have the attitude that there’s always a seat at the table, because the table is meant for all when it comes to representation in our government.

WHY DO YOU THINK CLOTHING AND SELF-PRESENTATION MATTER ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

Clothing and fashion are an extension of our inner selves. It’s important to not only feel confident but also to have a look that matches that identity. This is especially necessary as women, as we are often knocking down hurdles just to get a seat at the table.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CONSIDER WHEN DRESSING FOR THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL?

I think it’s important to choose items that reflect my personality. I’m already up against an arena that is hostile to women—particularly a woman like me, who holds marginalized identities. I don’t want to have to squeeze into a box though; I shouldn’t have to nor should my fashion.