California is increasingly politically contentious. The famously liberal politics of this state are under attack from the rise of the oligarchical right. The rise of tech influence in right-wing politics is roiling the state, by trying to suck power away from everyday Californians towards wealthy tech bros in Silicon Valley. Already, Governor Gavin Newsom, friendly to tech interests, is being propped up by California billionaires as their choice for the Democratic presidential nominee in 2028. Even in liberal San Francisco, a multi-millionaire defeated the city’s first female African-American mayor in the last election cycle.

But young people in California are fighting back. Amaris Dordar (she/her) is a younger millennial and Chicana mujer. Born at the very tail end of the millennial generation, she is a first-generation college graduate, having gone to Yale for her Bachelor’s and Harvard for her Master’s. Amaris is an attorney who speaks multiple languages, including Spanish (fluently), as well as Mandarin, Hindi, and Tibetan. A lover of yoga and hiking, she passionate about affordable housing, environmental sustainability, wildfire prevention, LGBTQ+ equality, expanding access to healthcare and mental health services, and creating economic opportunities for working families and small business owners. Exploring Los Angeles’ diverse cultural communities has focused Amaris on practical, community-centered solutions to homelessness and climate resilience across Los Angeles County.

Where are you based?
I’m based in Los Angeles, California, and my campaign is focused on serving California State Senate District 24.

What position are you running for?
I am running for California State Senate, District 24.

How would you briefly summarize your platform?
My platform focuses on expanding affordable housing, protecting our environment and coastlines, preventing wildfires, supporting LGBTQ+ equality, increasing access to healthcare and mental health services, and creating good-paying jobs through sustainable economic growth. I believe in practical, compassionate governance rooted in community engagement and accountability.

What inspired you to run?
I was inspired to run because I’ve seen firsthand how many Californians feel left behind by systems that are no longer working for working families, young people, and underserved communities. My background in law, public service, and advocacy has shown me how urgently we need leaders willing to confront difficult issues directly while still building bridges across communities.

What change are you hoping to bring to your district and country?
I want to bring responsive, ethical, community-centered leadership that prioritizes long-term solutions over political theater. I hope to help build a California where housing is attainable, healthcare is accessible, environmental protection is taken seriously, and every community feels represented and heard.

What do you consider to be your major accomplishments so far?
Some of my proudest accomplishments include becoming an attorney as a first-generation college graduate, receiving the Fulbright award, working with the United States Department of State, founding my own law practice, and maintaining a strong commitment to pro bono and community advocacy work throughout my career.

What do you feel are the most important issues right now, why, and how do you plan to tackle them?
Housing affordability, homelessness, climate resilience, mental healthcare access, and economic inequality are among the most pressing issues facing Californians today. I believe these challenges require both immediate action and long-term investment — including expanding affordable housing development, strengthening wildfire prevention infrastructure, increasing mental health resources, supporting clean energy jobs, and partnering closely with local organizations already doing impactful work in our communities.

America is extremely divided these days. How would you hope to bridge that divide with your constituents to better unite Americans?
I believe people are exhausted by performative politics and want leaders who genuinely listen. My approach is grounded in accessibility, dialogue, and mutual respect. Even when we disagree, we can still work together around shared concerns like public safety, affordable housing, economic opportunity, and protecting our communities from environmental threats.

How do you see your unique identity and background to be an asset to you in office?
My background gives me both professional expertise and lived experience navigating complex systems. As a Chicana attorney, former scholar-diplomat, and small business owner, I understand the importance of representation, coalition-building, and practical problem-solving. I also believe my multicultural and multilingual background helps me connect with the diverse communities that make California so vibrant.

What is your motto in life?
" ¡ Si se puede! Yes we can!"

Where can we find out more about you?
Website: www.amarisforsenate.la
Instagram: @amarisdordaresq

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Amaris Dordar, California State Senate District 24