Congresswoman Hilda Solis, the only representative of Central American descent,  will be named as Obama’s pick for Labor Secretary according to the AP. Solis was re-elected in November for her fifth term representing California’s 23rd Congressional (including, Azusa, Baldwin Park, City Terrace, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, El Sereno, Irwindale, Rosemead, South El Monte, West Covina and parts of Monterey Park).
The announcement is expected on Friday morning along with nominee Rep. Ray LaHood (IL) for Transportation Secretary.
best known for leading the fight to raise our state’s minimum wage in 1996, Solis was the first Latina elected to the California Senate in 1994. Solis later wrote a measure authorizing $125 million for energy efficiency retrotting and “green building” construction for workforce training while in Congress.
Solis has long been a champion of labor. She marched in Los Angeles on behalf of janitors represented by SEIU and has supported the rights of workers even before she was elected to statewide office.
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What names will be floated to run in the special election for her congressional seat?
That’s one district where, once elected, you’re in Congress for as long as you like.
Unless you’re Marty Martinez.
Great, LaHood is an Arab American, and Hilda Solis is married to an Arab American. Are these guys decent family men?
Gloria Romero would seem to be the front runner for the seat. Think it is her’s if she wants it. I’m sure we’ll hear Caldaron being mentioned, but not sure they can fundraise beyond their local base as Romero has.
Congratulations to Congesswoman Solis! She is a perfect fit.