By Monica Rodriguez for The Eastsider
A “perfect political storm” helped bring down longtime incumbent Jimmy Gomez, who lost his 34th Congressional District seat to Highland Park political newcomer Angela Gonzales-Torres.
Last week’s election unfolded amid a shift to the left among some Eastside voters, anti-Trump sentiment and criticism of Gomez over his support for Israel, campaign contributions and an investigation into “inappropriate sexual contact” with a Congressional staffer, according to political observers.
The Associated Press called the race between the two Democrats last Wednesday morning. As of Tuesday, Nov. 10, Gonzales-Torres led with 62.03% of the vote to Gomez’s 37.97%, according to the L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s website.
“This victory belongs to the workers who keep this city, state, and country running,” Gonzales-Torres said in a statement. She pledged to address environmental concerns, affordable housing, universal healthcare and student debt cancellation.
Gomez, who has served in Congress since 2017, reflected on his accomplishments and thanked his staff, family and constituents.
“Serving Los Angeles has been a privilege. Titles come and go, but the people and the values we fight for endure,” Gomez said.
Councilmember Ysabel Jurado congratulated Gonzales-Torres, calling her a “strong progressive champion.”
Darren Gold, president of the Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council, said he offered his congratulations to Gonzales-Torres despite their rocky relationship on the council.
“In the end, we all want what is best for the community,” Gold said.
Mike Bonin, executive director of the Pat Brown Institute at Cal State L.A., said it’s rare for an L.A. congressional incumbent to lose, particularly to someone from the same party.
A combination of factors created a “perfect political storm,” Bonin said, including a shift further left among some Eastside voters. Gomez also faced criticism over his support for Israel and financial backing from AIPAC and corporations.
Christian Grose, a USC political science professor, compared the election to previous political waves when frustrated voters rejected incumbents.
Anti-Trump sentiment, progressive voters and a House Ethics Committee investigation into Gomez’ alleged misconduct also contributed to the political environment, Grose said. Gomez has acknowledged “personal mistakes” outside his marriage but maintained his relationships were consensual.
Both experts said Gonzales-Torres, whose only elected experience was serving on the Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council, faces a steep learning curve in Congress.
Bonin said Democratic leaders and experienced lawmakers could help her adjust.
“There is no shortage of mentors, but you want to choose your mentors wisely,” Bonin said.
