Candidate for
State Senator; District 40; Democratic Party

Born and raised on a small farm with nine siblings, JUAN VARGAS learned hard work and the importance of family, faith, and helping those who can't help themselves. After attending USD, Juan studied to become a Jesuit priest and worked in an orphanage in the civil-war-torn jungles of El Salvador. After the seminary, Juan attended Harvard Law School, where he was a classmate of President Barack Obama.

With a Harvard Law Degree, JUAN VARGAS could have worked anywhere. He chose to return to our community and dedicate himself to public service.

As a councilmember, Juan grew tired of Sacramento balancing its budget by taking money from local governments needed to pay for police officers and firefighters. In 2000, he decided to run for State Assembly--and won!

JUAN VARGAS made an immediate, big impact when he wrote a 1-Strike law to keep sexual predators out of our neighborhoods.

JUAN VARGAS increased funding for healthcare, cut prescription drug costs, and passed legislation to punish elder abuse.

"Since I left, Sacramento has become a mess. It's immoral for politicians to accept pay raises and then release dangerous prisoners. It's immoral for politicians to accept campaign donations from health insurance companies who raise rates by 40% and deny coverage to critically ill patients. I'm running for Senate because we need bold leadership to reform California, reduce the power of special interests, promote job creation, and stand up for ordinary citizens. I would be honored to earn your vote."

- JUAN VARGAS