Jon Regardie for The Eastsider
Originally published Jan. 5, 2026
It’s hard to fathom a more politically challenging time than last year, but even if the world eases up, a bevy of Eastside politicians will be busy throughout 2026. Here are four local figures to watch.
María Elena Durazo
For decades, Durazo has influenced and helped shape the power structure in the region, heading the L.A. County Federation of Labor from 2006-2014, and serving in the California Senate since 2018. This year, she’s attempting to level up, vacating the District 26 Senate seat to seek outgoing County Supervisor Hilda Solis’ District 1 post. Durazo is considered such a threat that currently no one is running against her for supervisor.
Mark González
The former L.A. County Democratic Party chair had an active first full year representing California Assembly District 54 (it includes Boyle Heights and Lincoln Heights), authoring legislation that cracks down on copper wire theft and that allows the removal of abandoned RVs from the streets (he partnered with Mayor Karen Bass on the effort). As Assembly Majority Whip, González is primed for an equally busy 2026, including seeking to restore a crisis hotline for LGBTQ+ youth.
Ysabel Jurado
After bouncing Kevin de León from the District 14 City Council seat, Jurado frequently made headlines in 2025. She secured funds to repair busted Boyle Heights streetlights, was caught apparently napping in Council, and divided Eagle Rock residents by opposing a Home Depot that would activate a dead former Macy’s—expect that issue to continue this year. The DSA-backed pol could also duel with property owners in 2026 after deeming evictions a “modern vestige of imperialism and conquest.”
Rocío Rivas
The former Highland Park Neighborhood Council president won a post on the LAUSD Board of Education in 2022 and is seeking re-election this year. Rivas currently has one challenger for the District 2 seat, which includes a large swath of the Eastside, but is backed by UTLA, the prominent teachers’ union. She’ll also spend 2026 wrestling with district budget challenges, and seeking to protect LAUSD students against immigration crackdowns.
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