Introducing Our 2025 Election Leaders

The results are in, and our community has spoken! As we move forward, it’s time to shine a spotlight on the individuals you’ve entrusted to lead us into the future. These newly elected officials bring fresh energy, ideas, and a passion for making a difference. To get to know them better, we asked each of them to share their vision and priorities for their time in office. From tackling critical issues to fostering growth and collaboration, their responses provide a glimpse into the ambitions and values guiding them as they step into their positions. While space is limited, each leader’s words reflect their commitment to serving our community and making a meaningful impact.
We are excited to introduce you to the voices of leadership shaping our tomorrow. Read on to discover their plans, their hopes, and how they intend to serve you. Together, let’s celebrate the beginning of a new chapter!

Suzette Martinez Valladares
California State Senate, District 23

Suzette Martinez Valladares is a champion for California families, businesses, and communities. As a member of the California State Senate, Valladares aims to advocate for policies that drive economic growth, improve public safety, and promote personal freedoms. She is particularly focused on ensuring that California’s economic recovery post-pandemic is sustainable, inclusive, and job-driven.
Valladares plans to work towards reducing burdensome taxes and regulations on small businesses while enhancing economic opportunities in sectors like agriculture, technology, and renewable energy. She believes in creating a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and job creation, which, in turn, will lead to better opportunities for working families.
In addition to economic growth, Valladares is committed to public safety, advocating for policies that protect communities, ensure law enforcement has the resources they need, and address homelessness through comprehensive support programs. She also supports reforms in education, focusing on improving K-12 systems and expanding vocational education to prepare students for success in the workforce. Valladares’ vision is to make California a place where residents feel safe, prosperous, and free to pursue their dreams.

George Whitesides
U.S. House, CA District 27

George Whitesides is committed to representing the interests of California’s District 27 with a focus on promoting economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity. As a new member of the U.S. House of Representatives, George plans to push for policies that support a robust economy while ensuring that all individuals have access to opportunities for success.
His priorities include advancing clean energy initiatives to combat climate change, increasing investments in green technologies, and supporting job creation in industries related to renewable energy. George advocates for improved healthcare access, focusing on lowering prescription drug costs, expanding mental health services, and ensuring that all Californians have access to affordable care.
In addition to healthcare and the environment, George emphasizes the need for infrastructure improvements to support California’s growing population. He plans to fight for federal funding to improve transportation systems, water management, and disaster preparedness. Social equity is also central to his platform, as George works to address income inequality, support affordable housing, and protect civil rights. George’s leadership seeks to bring progress and positive change to District 27, balancing the needs of residents with broader national goals.

Tom Lackey
California State Assembly, District 34

Tom Lackey is focused on ensuring that California’s policies serve its residents effectively while addressing the state’s pressing challenges. His priorities include advocating for public safety, education reform, and sustainable economic development. As a member of the California State Assembly, Lackey aims to improve the quality of education at all levels, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to succeed.
Public safety remains a cornerstone of Tom’s platform. He advocates for policies that provide adequate funding for law enforcement agencies while promoting community engagement to build trust between residents and officers. Tom is also focused on addressing the state’s growing homelessness crisis. He plans to push for increased funding for affordable housing projects and expand services for people experiencing homelessness.
On the economic front, Tom aims to advocate for policies that support job creation, especially in sectors related to technology, green energy, and healthcare. He also seeks to reduce regulatory burdens on businesses, ensuring a thriving economy while protecting workers’ rights. Tom’s legislative goals are rooted in his commitment to making California a safe, prosperous, and equitable state for all its residents.

Pilar Schiavo
California State Assembly, District 40

Pilar Schiavo is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable future for California’s residents by focusing on issues such as healthcare reform, affordable housing, and climate change. As a new member of the California State Assembly, Schiavo brings a progressive platform aimed at addressing the challenges faced by working families, communities of color, and marginalized groups.
Schivo plans to work toward expanding access to affordable healthcare by supporting policies that lower the cost of prescription drugs, increase insurance coverage, and promote healthcare equity. Her focus also includes advancing climate justice by advocating for green energy solutions and investing in clean technologies that create new job opportunities while reducing the state’s carbon footprint.
Affordable housing is another priority for Schiavo, and she aims to implement policies that increase the availability of low-income housing options and address homelessness. She is also dedicated to ensuring that the voices of constituents are heard through a transparent, community-based decision-making process. By fostering collaboration with local leaders and stakeholders, Schiavo plans to advance legislation that promotes social, economic, and environmental justice for all Californians.

Nathan Hochman
Los Angeles County District Attorney

Nathan Hochman’s campaign for Los Angeles County District Attorney is grounded in his commitment to reforming the criminal justice system, ensuring fair and equal treatment for all residents. With a strong background in law and public service, Hochman aims to create a safer and more just society by focusing on criminal justice reform, crime prevention, and victim support.
A major priority for Hochman is reforming the approach to non-violent offenses. He advocates for alternatives to incarceration, such as restorative justice and rehabilitation programs, to ensure that individuals receive the support they need to reintegrate into society. At the same time, Hochman is committed to addressing violent crime and prioritizing the prosecution of repeat offenders to ensure public safety.
Hochman is also dedicated to improving transparency in the office and fostering a collaborative relationship between law enforcement agencies and community members. His focus on victim support aims to create a compassionate system that offers help to those who have suffered the most. Through these efforts, Hochman seeks to transform the district attorney’s office into one that balances public safety with fairness and rehabilitation.

Patsy Ayala
Santa Clarita City Council, District 1

Patsy Ayala is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Santa Clarita by focusing on community safety, affordable housing, and economic growth. As a member of the Santa Clarita City Council, Ayala plans to advocate for policies that ensure residents of District 1 have access to affordable housing options, promote smart growth, and enhance public safety.
A central focus of Ayala’s platform is addressing homelessness in the region. She plans to work with local organizations, nonprofits, and regional partners to develop long-term solutions to homelessness, with a focus on providing housing, job training, and mental health services.
Ayala is also committed to supporting the local economy by encouraging the development of small businesses and creating a business-friendly environment that fosters growth and job creation. She advocates for sustainable growth in the city that balances the need for housing and infrastructure with the preservation of Santa Clarita’s unique character.
Public safety is a top priority for Ayala. She is focused on ensuring that law enforcement agencies have the resources they need to maintain safety and respond to emerging challenges. Through transparent decision-making and community collaboration, Ayala aims to make Santa Clarita a place where families and businesses thrive.

Darlene Trevino
Santa Clarita Community College District, Area 1

Darlene Trevino is passionate about empowering students and strengthening the community through the work of College of the Canyons. Her vision includes increasing access to higher education, expanding student support services, and fostering a campus culture that values diversity and inclusion.
Darlene plans to focus on affordability by advocating for tuition assistance programs, affordable housing options, and low-cost learning materials. She believes in making college accessible to all, including underserved populations, non-traditional students, and veterans. By working closely with local high schools, Darlene aims to promote dual enrollment programs, ensuring students have a head start on their college education.
Darlene is also dedicated to advancing workforce development by supporting programs that align with the region’s economic needs. She advocates for creating partnerships with local industries to ensure students graduate with the skills needed to excel in high-demand fields.

Edel Alonso
Santa Clarita Community College District, Area 2

Edel Alonso is dedicated to strengthening College of the Canyons and ensuring its role as a premier institution for higher education and workforce development in Santa Clarita. Her priorities include increasing student access to affordable education, expanding career technical programs, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.
Edel emphasizes the importance of addressing the challenges students face, including housing insecurity, food scarcity, and mental health. She advocates for expanding resources and partnerships to provide comprehensive support services that help students overcome these barriers and achieve their educational goals.
Another cornerstone of Edel’s platform is improving transparency and accountability in the district’s governance. She is committed to ensuring that decision-making processes are open and that taxpayer dollars are managed responsibly. Edel also plans to strengthen collaboration with local industries to ensure that academic programs align with workforce needs, providing students with the skills necessary to succeed in competitive job markets.
Edel is passionate about lifelong learning and wants to expand opportunities for adult education and professional development. Her vision is to make College of the Canyons a model institution that meets the needs of its diverse student population while contributing to the economic and cultural growth of the Santa Clarita Valley.

Fred Arnold
Santa Clarita Community College District, Area 3

Fred Arnold is focused on advancing the mission of College of the Canyons by ensuring it remains accessible, affordable, and innovative for all students. He recognizes the critical role the college plays in the community and is dedicated to fostering programs that enhance student success, promote economic development, and strengthen workforce readiness.
Fred’s priorities include expanding access to financial aid and scholarships to alleviate the financial burden on students and their families. He also supports enhancing career and technical education (CTE) programs to prepare students for high-demand industries. By collaborating with local businesses, Fred plans to create more internship opportunities, ensuring students gain practical experience to complement their studies.
Fred is also committed to maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency in the district’s governance. He believes that taxpayer dollars should be managed prudently to ensure the long-term sustainability of the college while funding programs that directly benefit students.
Another focus for Fred is addressing the mental health and well-being of students. He aims to advocate for additional counseling services and mental health resources to support students navigating personal and academic challenges. Through his efforts, Fred seeks to make College of the Canyons a national leader in educational excellence and community impact.

Sharlene Johnson
Santa Clarita Community College District, Area 4

Sharlene Johnson is committed to enhancing the student experience at College of the Canyons and addressing the evolving needs of the community. Her vision includes expanding access to quality education, improving student retention rates, and fostering innovation in academic and vocational programs. Sharlene is focused on ensuring that students from all backgrounds could succeed academically and professionally.
A key priority for Sharlene is addressing the affordability of education. She plans to advocate for increased access to financial aid, scholarships, and low-cost textbook options. Additionally, she supports the expansion of dual enrollment programs to allow high school students to earn college credits and reduce the financial burden of higher education.
Sharlene is also focused on modernizing campus facilities and technology to meet the demands of a rapidly changing educational landscape. She supports investments in clean energy and sustainable practices to make the campus environmentally responsible.
Community engagement is central to Sharlene’s platform. She aims to strengthen partnerships between the college, local businesses, and nonprofit organizations to create internship and job opportunities for students. By promoting transparency and collaboration, Sharlene hopes to position College of the Canyons as a leader in educational excellence and community development.

Erik L. Richardson
Castaic Union School District, Area A

Erik L. Richardson is honored to serve as the Governing Board representative for District A in the Castaic Union School District. Born and raised in the Santa Clarita Valley, Richardson moved to Castaic in 2020 with his wife and two sons. He is deeply committed to ensuring that every child in the district has access to a high-quality education that prepares them for future success.
Richardson’s priorities include increasing educational opportunities, improving academic achievement, and fostering an environment where students can thrive. He is dedicated to supporting teachers and staff by advocating for professional development and ensuring they have the resources necessary for success in the classroom. Additionally, he is focused on expanding programs that address the social-emotional needs of students, including mental health services and counseling.
Recognizing the importance of community involvement, Richardson works closely with parents, educators, and local leaders to create a collaborative and inclusive environment. As both a parent and a board member, he is committed to being a voice for families in the community. Richardson’s leadership emphasizes sustaining a safe and supportive environment where students can learn, grow, and build lifelong memories. He is excited to serve the Castaic community over the next four years, working to help every student reach their full potential.

Katherine Cooper
Saugus Union School District, Area 3

Katherine Cooper is committed to improving educational opportunities for students in the Saugus Union School District. As a new member of the school board, she is dedicated to advocating for policies that enhance student outcomes, promote diversity, and ensure that every student has the resources they need to succeed.
A central focus for Katherine is ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality education. She plans to push for improvements in the district’s academic programs, particularly in areas like STEM education, literacy, and mental health services. Katherine also believes in expanding after-school programs and extracurricular activities to ensure that students have a well-rounded educational experience.
Katherine is also focused on fiscal responsibility and ensuring that district funds are used effectively to enhance educational opportunities. She is dedicated to working with parents, educators, and community members to ensure that the district remains responsive to the needs of its students. Through transparent decision-making and a focus on student success, Katherine aims to make the Saugus Union School District a model of excellence in California education.

Suzan Solomon
Newhall School District, Area 5

Suzan Solomon is passionate about providing every child in the Newhall School District with the best possible educational experience. As a new board member, Solomon is focused on ensuring that the district’s schools foster academic excellence, promote inclusion, and support the social-emotional well-being of all students.
Solomon’s goals include expanding STEM education programs, improving access to college and career readiness resources, and addressing the needs of special education students. She is committed to closing achievement gaps by focusing on initiatives that support underserved communities and provide additional academic support where needed.
In addition to academic achievements, Solomon is committed to improving the social-emotional learning environment in schools. She plans to push for more resources dedicated to mental health and counseling services, as well as creating safe spaces for students to thrive. Solomon is also focused on supporting the district’s teachers and administrators by advocating for professional development programs that ensure they have the skills needed to foster student success. Through collaboration with parents, educators, and the community, Solomon aims to make the Newhall School District a place where every student can achieve their full potential.

Dr. Aakash Ahuja
William S. Hart Union High School District, Area 1

Dr. Aakash Ahuja is dedicated to enhancing educational excellence and fostering holistic development within the William S. Hart Union High School District. With a background in public service and healthcare, he brings a unique perspective to addressing the challenges faced by students, parents, and teachers.
Dr. Ahuja’s priorities include raising academic standards, addressing mental health challenges, and ensuring equitable resources for underserved communities. He is committed to strengthening career and technical education programs, preparing students for both college and the workforce, and expanding opportunities through partnerships with local businesses and higher education institutions.
Mental health remains a cornerstone of Dr. Ahuja’s vision. He aims to increase access to counselors and implement proactive strategies to support student well-being. Transparency and collaboration guide his approach, involving parents, teachers, and students in shaping district policies and priorities.
Humbled by the trust placed in him as Hart School Board Trustee, Dr. Ahuja is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where every student can thrive. He views this role as both a privilege and a responsibility, working diligently to prepare students for lifelong success and meaningful contributions to society.

Erin Wilson
William S. Hart Union High
School District, Area 4

Erin Wilson is honored to be re-elected to serve as a William S. Hart school board trustee. She’s committed to making a positive impact on the District by ensuring every student has the resources and mentorship needed to receive an excellent education. Erin’s top priority in promoting the education of our students is to improve Literacy.
Erin encourages students to be engaged in their education by making goals that will carry them successfully to their future. Continuing to support the district’s emphasis on sports, the arts, STEM programs and Career Technical Education pathways, she will ensure students have opportunities to explore their interests and develop their skills.
Families are an important component to the success of the student, so Erin will be persistent and innovative in finding ways to engage and involve them along with community members who can provide valuable support to students. By fostering healthy relationships and open communication, Erin aims to build trust and ensure all stakeholders feel heard and respected. Her ultimate goal is to elevate the lives of students of the WSHUSD. The six years they spend in the district should lead them to live more fulfilling, enriched lives resulting from their school attendance.

Dan Masnada
Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, Division 1

With decades of water management experience, including leadership roles at Valencia Water Company and as General Manager of the Castaic Lake Water Agency, Dan Masnada is well-equipped to address Santa Clarita Valley’s water challenges. As a Director of the SCV Water Agency, he focuses on tackling drought, population growth, and rising water supply costs through sustainable, forward-thinking solutions.
Dan’s priorities include modernizing infrastructure, expanding water recycling projects, and securing additional groundwater storage to enhance long-term reliability. He is committed to drought-proofing the region’s water supply through innovative strategies like water banking programs, ensuring the community is prepared for future dry years. To minimize costs, Dan advocates for efficient operations and requires new developments to cover their fair share of water supply expenses.
Collaboration is a cornerstone of Dan’s leadership. He works closely with regional partners, policymakers, and other agency directors to secure grants and funding opportunities, reducing financial burdens on ratepayers. At the same time, he champions conservation programs that incentivize water-saving practices for residents and businesses alike.
Transparency and community engagement are central to Dan’s vision. Through workshops and outreach campaigns, he fosters public trust and builds a shared understanding of the region’s water challenges. Dan’s goal is to position the SCV Water Agency as a leader in sustainability, resilience, and affordability, safeguarding reliable water resources for generations to come.

Gary Martin
Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, Division 1

Gary Martin, a dedicated leader for Division 1, is committed to sustainability, affordability, and innovation as a Board Director for the Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency (SCVWA). Grateful for the trust of Division 1 voters and the opportunity to share his plans through élite Magazine, Gary remains focused on ensuring long-term water supply reliability for the Santa Clarita Valley.
Gary’s priorities include bolstering water infrastructure, improving drought preparedness, protecting groundwater resources, and expanding the use of recycled water to promote sustainable resource management. He is a strong advocate for investing in modern technologies, such as smart water systems, to enhance efficiency, reduce water losses, and monitor consumption effectively. At the same time, he supports independent oversight to ensure the rate-setting process keeps water service affordable for residents.
Transparency and community engagement are integral to Gary’s leadership style. He actively involves residents in water policy discussions, fosters collaboration with regional and state partners, and seeks innovative funding solutions to address the valley’s unique water challenges. With a focus on balancing environmental stewardship, fiscal responsibility, and the community’s long-term needs, Gary’s vision is to position the Santa Clarita Valley as a model for effective, sustainable water management.

Piotr Orzechowski
Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, Division 2

Piotr Orzechowski is dedicated to addressing water challenges that impact the residents of Division 2 and the broader Santa Clarita Valley. With growing concerns over water scarcity, Piotr’s top priorities include advancing water sustainability, expanding recycling programs, and reducing reliance on imported water. He is committed to ensuring the agency continues to improve conservation programs, not just for residential use but also for commercial and agricultural sectors. Piotr plans to advocate for innovative technologies, such as smart water meters, to help customers manage their consumption efficiently.
Transparency and community involvement are central to his approach. Piotr aims to establish regular communication channels to ensure residents are informed about water issues and involved in decision-making processes. He also seeks to improve educational outreach about water conservation to help the public understand the importance of protecting local resources. Additionally, Piotr will prioritize efforts to modernize infrastructure, secure grant funding, and ensure that rates remain fair and equitable while meeting the community’s needs. With a long-term vision, Piotr is focused on balancing environmental sustainability, financial responsibility, and public trust, ensuring water security for current and future generations.

Ken Cooper
Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, Division 2

Ken Cooper brings a proactive and pragmatic approach to the challenges facing Division 2 of the SCV Water Agency. Recognizing the critical need for reliable and affordable water resources, Ken’s plans include improving infrastructure, increasing local groundwater storage capacity, and reducing dependency on imported water sources. He is a strong advocate for long-term drought preparedness, emphasizing investments in innovative water technologies and partnerships with state and federal agencies to secure additional funding.
Ken also understands the importance of customer engagement and education. He plans to work closely with local organizations and community leaders to promote water conservation practices and ensure that all stakeholders have a voice in decision-making. By fostering transparency and open communication, Ken hopes to build trust between the agency and its customers.
Environmental stewardship is another cornerstone of his platform. Ken supports initiatives that protect local watersheds and expand the use of recycled water for landscaping and industrial purposes. His goal is to balance economic growth with ecological sustainability, ensuring that future generations in the Santa Clarita Valley have access to clean and reliable water. Through these efforts, Ken aims to position the SCV Water Agency as a model of efficiency and innovation in water management.

Kathye Armitage
Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, Division 3

Kathye Armitage is dedicated to addressing the water challenges facing Division 3 and the greater Santa Clarita Valley. Her priorities include reducing reliance on imported water, protecting local water supplies, and expanding conservation programs. Kathye is passionate about integrating sustainability into the agency’s operations, with a particular focus on promoting recycled water use and protecting natural resources.
Kathye recognizes the importance of educating the community about water issues. She plans to implement robust public outreach campaigns to inform residents about conservation practices and the agency’s role in managing local resources. By fostering transparency and inclusivity, she aims to build trust and encourage collaboration between the SCV Water Agency and its stakeholders.
Infrastructure improvements are another key focus for Kathye. She supports investments in modernizing delivery systems to enhance efficiency and reliability while minimizing costs to ratepayers. Kathye is also a strong advocate for long-term planning to ensure the agency is prepared for challenges like climate change and drought. Her vision is to create a resilient water system that meets the needs of today’s residents while safeguarding resources for future generations.

Ken Petersen
Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, Division 3

Ken Petersen is eager to bring a fresh perspective to Division 3 of the SCV Water Agency. His agenda centers on improving water resource management, ensuring affordability, and promoting environmental stewardship. Ken is particularly focused on increasing the use of alternative water sources, such as recycled water, to reduce reliance on imported supplies and ensure sustainable access for future generations.
Ken is committed to addressing the pressing issue of aging infrastructure. He plans to advocate for upgrades and maintenance projects to prevent water loss and improve efficiency across the system. His approach involves leveraging technology to enhance water conservation efforts and help residents and businesses reduce their consumption without compromising quality of life.
Transparency and public engagement are key components of Ken’s strategy. He believes in fostering trust between the agency and the community by keeping constituents informed and involved in critical decisions. Ken also aims to collaborate with state and federal agencies to secure grants and funding for major projects. Through his efforts, Ken seeks to balance the needs of Division 3 with the agency’s overarching goals, ensuring that the SCV Water Agency remains a leader in sustainability and innovation.

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