Obama's pick of Hilda Solis for Labor prompts some to eye her House seat
President-elect Barack Obama's reported pick of Rep. Hilda Solis as his Labor secretary is causing California legislators to gear up to run for what would be a rare open congressional seat.
First to proclaim interest: state Sen. Gloria Romero, an East Los Angeles Democrat.
Romero, 53, replaced Solis in the state Senate, and her East Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley district encompasses the congressional district. The district is heavily Democratic, 57% Latino and 13% Asian, according to the California Target Book, which tracks legislative and congressional races in this state.
In an interview today, Romero called Solis an “adamant advocate for working families” and "a natural choice, a progressive choice” to be Labor secretary.
Romero, 53, has made her name in the Legislature by holding tough oversight hearings into California’s troubled prison system. She had been contemplating a run for California superintendent of public instruction in 2010.
“I have deep roots, and I would certainly give it every consideration,” Romero said. “Definitely, I am interested.”
One of the Calderon brothers also could run. The clan includes Assemblyman Charles Calderon, a Democrat from Montebello, state Sen. Ron Calderon or former Assemblyman Tom Calderon.
"I'm just hearing about it," Charles Calderon said. "Certainly, it is too early to tell."
What about one of his younger brothers: "I don't know. At this point, anything is possible."
--Dan Morain
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does martha escutia live outside the district?
Posted by: soledadenmasa | December 18, 2008 at 11:53 PM
Calderon ???? WE DON'T LIKE CARPETBAGGERS!!! YOU STAY ON YOUR SIDE!
Posted by: Solis Voter | December 18, 2008 at 11:55 PM
Why is the article MORE about romero than Solis?
As Labor Sect. I want to know if she is PRO illegal alien or NOT!
Posted by: USFirst | December 18, 2008 at 11:55 PM
Kudos to Congressmember Solis...good choice. Romero is a the perfect elected offical to fill the seat...she has served the area for many years and will do great things in Congress for the area.
Posted by: B. Saavedra | December 19, 2008 at 11:38 PM