Cedillo announces Assembly bid

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A potential battle between Los Angeles political heavyweights has been averted. State Sen. Gil Cedillo (D-Los Angeles) had been considering a challenge to Assembly Speaker-elect John Perez (D-Los Angeles) for the 46th District seat in this year’s election, but announced today he will instead run for the neighboring 45th District seat, which Kevin De Leon is vacating to run for Cedillo’s seat.

(Updated at 5:35 p.m.: A previous version of this post said Cedillo would have challenged Perez for the 45th District and that he had announced to instead run for the 46th District.)

‘Peace is breaking out,’ Cedillo said. The potential showdown had been caused by term limits, which prohibit Cedillo from standing for reelection again. Cedillo said Perez is a longtime friend, so he was glad an arrangement could be worked out that would not result in any unnecessary confrontation.

As part of the arrangement, Perez will help Cedillo’s campaign. ‘I can’t think of anyone better qualified for this seat. I will make his election a priority,’’ Perez said. Although Cedillo’s district includes much of De Leon’s, the senator said he will have to move ‘a few blocks’’ to run for election in the 45th.

‘This allows me to finish my work and transition out’’ of public office, Cedillo said, adding he wants to stay in the Legislature to complete goals on improving healthcare, homeless services and public safety.

-- Patrick McGreevy in Sacramento