WALNUT, Calif. — A Democratic councilman from the city of Walnut is challenging the GOP incumbent for a seat in California’s 55th Assembly District.
In the final stretch before the last day to vote, Andrew Rodriguez spent his time trying to engage with as many voters as possible. While the pandemic has changed the way candidates interact with voters, Rodriguez took to social media and virtual town halls to connect with the community.
“I like knocking on doors, talking to voters. Unfortunately, we can’t do that, so we have to get creative. So, we’re doing virtual events, virtual town halls,” Rodriguez said.
The 27-year-old councilman from Walnut is facing off against Republican incumbent Phillip Chen, who currently represents the 55th Assembly District. The mostly suburban region covers parts of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties.
“California is my home. Walnut is my home. And ultimately, I am young, but I am hungry and I want to make California, the United States, and our communities a better place,” Rodriguez added.
The swing district supported Hillary Clinton for president in 2016, but then voted for Republican John Cox over Gavin Newsom in the 2018 governor’s race.
Rodriguez hopes to flip the district blue by focusing on his accomplishments as the former mayor of Walnut and his plans if he were to be elected to the legislature.
“My professional and educational background is in planning, city planning, and development, and California does have a housing crisis, so this is very personal for me,” Rodriguez explained.
While the Walnut native is proud of the work he’s done for his city, he says it’s time to take his passion for service to the next level.
“I love working on economic development issues and helping small businesses and ultimately, I want to provide outstanding constituent services for residents when I’m elected,” Rodriguez said.
If elected, Rodriguez would be the youngest legislator at the State Capitol.
“I do feel that my age is a strength. I am hungry, I am energetic, and ultimately this world needs younger people to step up and take leadership roles and we need to do what’s best to steer our planet and our country in the right direction,” Rodriguez said.
As for endorsements, Rodriguez has gained support from several Democratic leaders, including Joe Biden and Congressman Gil Cisneros, while Assemblymember Chen is backed by public safety and taxpayer organizations.
Chen, who did not respond to multiple requests for an interview, beat Rodriguez in the primary by a 12-point margin.
Still, Rodriguez says he’s confident about his chances in this election, but no matter the outcome of the race, he’ll continue to find opportunities to serve his community.