Latino Caucus Celebrates the Monumental Election of Kevin de León as Next Senate President pro Tempore

June 16, 2014

SACRAMENTO California Latino Legislative Caucus Chair Senator Ricardo Lara (D-Huntington Park/Long Beach) and Vice Chair, Assembly Member Luis Alejo (D-Salinas) released the following statement in celebration of Senator Kevin de León’s election as the first Latino to head the Senate in modern history:

“On behalf of the Latino Caucus, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to one of our members and the next Senate President pro Tempore, Senator Kevin de León.

From humble beginnings raised by a single mother in San Diego’s Barrio of Logan Heights, to becoming the next leader of the California Senate, Kevin de León is proof that the American Dream is alive and well. His advocacy promoting educational equity, safe communities, immigrant rights and clean energy as a leader in the passage of Proposition 39, will impact California for generations to come.

His historic election will make him the first Latino leader of the Senate in over 100 years, and the first since the formation of the Latino Caucus in 1973.

Pro Tem-elect De León’s extensive and successful career in public service undoubtedly positions him to be an effective leader for the entire state of California.”

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Contact: Jesse Melgar / (916) 651-4033/ Jesse.Melgar@sen.ca.gov