2025–2026 BWOPA State Candidate Endorsements
For more than five decades, Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA) has stood at the forefront of advancing and electing leaders who embody our core values of equity, justice, and community empowerment. Our endorsements are more than political support—they represent a principled commitment to candidates who will lead with integrity, courage, and accountability to the communities they serve.
Our state BWOPA-PAC endorsed candidates have demonstrated a clear alignment with our mission and a proven dedication to advancing policies that strengthen Black women, families, and communities across California. Their leadership reflects a shared commitment to progress in the critical areas of economic security, education, health equity, and criminal justice reform.
Below is BWOPA-PAC’s current list of endorsed candidates for the 2025–2026 election cycle—state leaders we trust to fight for meaningful change and to help build a more just and inclusive California.
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Lateefah Simon for US Congress “BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Lateefah Simon for re-election to the United States Congress. A lifelong advocate for justice and equity, Lateefah Simon has dedicated her career to advancing civil rights, expanding opportunity, and uplifting historically marginalized communities. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to ensuring Black women, families, and underserved communities are seen, heard, and valued. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue to be a principled and powerful voice in Congress, advancing policies that promote economic security, health equity, and justice for all.” |
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Tony Thurmond for Governor of California BWOPA's State PAC proudly endorses Tony Thurmond for Governor of California. A lifetime BWOPA member and BWOPA’s 2008 Man of the Year, Tony Thurmond has demonstrated unwavering commitment to working families, grounded in service, integrity, and results. From his early advocacy for disenfranchised youth to his leadership in local government, the State Assembly, and as California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, he has delivered transformative, people-centered policies, advancing universal school meals, expanding access to health care, strengthening investments in educators, and creating paid pathways to opportunity for young people. At this critical moment for California, BWOPA PAC believes Tony Thurmond’s leadership is exactly what our state needs, and we are proud to support his historic candidacy to become California’s first Black Governor. Join us to support our longtime lifetime member Tony Thurmond as CA Governor. |
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Nichelle Henderson for CA Superintendent for Public Instruction BWOPA's State PAC proudly endorses Nichelle Henderson, a college faculty member and union organizer who has consistently fought to strengthen public education, protect workers’ rights, advance women’s reproductive health, and expand political empowerment. As a Member of the Los Angeles Community College District Board, Nichelle has been a tireless advocate for students and educators—building capacity, defending academic freedom, and ensuring our institutions remain accessible and accountable. At a moment when public education faces relentless attacks—from efforts to censor what students can read and learn to broader assaults led by the Trump administration and its allies—BWOPA PAC believes Nichelle Henderson’s principled, values-driven leadership is exactly what our communities need. Will you join us and support Nichelle as our next Superintendent? |
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Lauren Babb Tomlinson for US Congress BWOPA's State PAC proudly endorses Lauren Babb Tomlinson for U.S. Congress. A BWOPA member of our Sacramento Chapter and an alumna of the Dezie Woods-Jones (DWJ) Public Policy Fellowship, Lauren embodies our mission to develop, elevate, and advance Black women leaders who drive real change. Through her proven leadership advocating for reproductive freedom and health equity at Planned Parenthood, she has stood firmly for bodily autonomy and access to care—especially for women and families too often pushed to the margins. Her policy acumen, lived commitment to equity, and community-rooted advocacy make her a powerful voice for women, families, and underserved communities, and BWOPA State PAC is proud to support her principled, justice-centered leadership. |
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Hon. Steve Bradford for CA Insurance Commissioner
Steven Bradford long-standing leadership in the California State Legislature — particularly his steadfast advocacy on issues impacting the Black community — has been unmatched. From his pioneering role in developing California’s historic Reparations Recommendations to his authorship of key legislation advancing public safety, criminal justice reform, economic opportunity, and protections for communities most in need, Senator Bradford has consistently delivered results rooted in equity and accountability.
As California faces mounting challenges in its insurance market, we are confident that Senator Bradford brings the experience, integrity, and vision required to protect consumers and ensure fairness for every Californian.
BWOPA's State PAC stands firmly with Steven Bradford as he continues his important work championing justice, access, and economic security for all.
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Hon. Malia Cohen for CA State Controller BWOPA's State PAC proudly endorses the re-election of Malia Cohen for California State Controller. A lifetime BWOPA member, Malia has dedicated her career—from the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and the California Board of Equalization to her leadership as State Controller—to making public dollars work for the people who need them most. She is a proven champion for women, working families, and economic security, and understands that advancing economic justice for Black women—by closing wage and wealth gaps, supporting caregivers, and expanding access to capital and entrepreneurship—strengthens families and our entire state. As an independent budget hawk, Malia brings transparency, equity, and accountability to how California invests public resources. With a second term, BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue delivering results for the more than 40 million Californians who rely on responsible, people-centered leadership. Can we count on you to join us to re-elect Malia as State Controller? |
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Hon. Michael Tubbs for Lt. Governor BWOPA's State PAC is proud to endorse Michael Tubbs for Lieutenant Governor. A BWOPA California Man of the Year honoree (2015), Tubbs embodies the values of bold, people-centered leadership that our organization champions. His groundbreaking tenure as Mayor of Stockton and his statewide advocacy for economic mobility, guaranteed income, and equity-centered policymaking have transformed lives and set new standards for what community-rooted public service can achieve. Mayor Tubbs has been a steadfast champion for working families, marginalized communities, and those too often excluded from opportunity—and his leadership continues to inspire a more just and inclusive California. Join BWOPA PAC in supporting Mayor Tubbs as our next Lt. Governor? |
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Esmeralda Soria for State Senate A proud member of Black Women Organized for Political Action's (BWOPA) Fresno / San Joaquin Valley Chapter, Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria is a proven champion for Central Valley women, workers, and families. She has delivered meaningful progress on affordable housing, healthcare access, economic mobility, public safety, and educational opportunity—policies that uplift working people and strengthen our region. BWOPA's State PAC is proud to support her leadership and urges voters to elect Esmeralda Soria to the State Senate. |
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Dr. Ayanna Davis for California State Assembly “BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Dr. Ayanna Davis for California State Assembly, District 65. A lifelong educator and elected leader, Dr. Davis has been a steadfast champion for students, working families, and underserved communities across Los Angeles County. Her record reflects proven leadership, a deep commitment to equity, and a clear understanding that education, health, and economic security are deeply connected. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue fighting for opportunity and accountability—especially for Black women, families, and communities across California.” |
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Secretary of State Shirley Weber“BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Secretary of State Shirley Weber for re-election. A trailblazer and champion for democracy, Secretary Weber has dedicated her career to expanding voter access, protecting civil rights, and strengthening civic engagement across California. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to ensuring every voice is heard and every vote is counted. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue to safeguard our democracy and advance equity for all Californians.” Support CA Secretary of State Shirley Weber's re-election
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Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins“BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins for re-election to the California State Assembly. A dedicated leader and advocate for community empowerment, Assemblymember Sharp-Collins has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing policies that support working families, economic opportunity, and equitable access to resources. Her leadership reflects a deep understanding of the needs of her community and a passion for service. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue to deliver meaningful results for Black women and families.” Join Us in Supporting Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins
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Assemblymember Lori Wilson“BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Assemblymember Lori Wilson for re-election to the California State Assembly. A respected leader and long-time committed member of BWOPA, Assemblymember Wilson has demonstrated unwavering dedication to advancing policies that center equity, justice, and opportunity. Her work on maternal health, economic empowerment, and criminal justice reform reflects a deep commitment to improving outcomes for Black women and families. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue to lead with integrity and deliver meaningful impact for communities across California.” Support Assemblymember Lori Wilson
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Assemblymember Mia Bonta“BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Assemblymember Mia Bonta for re-election to the California State Assembly. A dedicated public servant and long-time committed member of BWOPA, Assemblymember Bonta has led with purpose on issues impacting children, families, and historically marginalized communities. Her work in advancing education, health equity, and community investment reflects her commitment to building a more just and inclusive California. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue to be a strong voice for Black women and families.” Join Us in Supporting Assemblymember Mia Bonta
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Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom“BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom for re-election to the California State Assembly. A long-time and dedicated member of BWOPA, Assemblymember Ransom embodies the very spirit of leadership, service, and advocacy that defines our organization. Her commitment to uplifting communities, advancing equity, and creating pathways for opportunity reflects both her legislative work and her deep-rooted connection to the communities she serves. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue to be a strong and trusted voice for Black women, families, and underserved communities across California.” Join Us in Supporting Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom
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Assemblymember Sade Elhawary“BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Assemblymember Sade Elhawary for re-election to the California State Assembly. A new generation leader, Assemblymember Elhawary brings a fresh and thoughtful approach to advancing equity, community-centered solutions, and responsive governance. Her commitment to addressing economic disparities and expanding opportunity reflects the values BWOPA PAC stands for. We are confident she will continue to be a strong advocate for inclusive and forward-thinking policies.” Join Us in Supporting Assemblymember Sade Elhawary
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Assemblymember Tina McKinnor“BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Assemblymember Tina McKinnor for re-election to the California State Assembly. A bold and effective leader, Assemblymember McKinnor has been a tireless advocate for economic justice, housing equity, and working families. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to uplifting underserved communities and advancing policies that create real pathways to stability and opportunity. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue to champion equity, accountability, and transformative change for Black women and families across California.” |
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Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas“BWOPA PAC is proud to endorse Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas for re-election to the California State Senate. A fierce advocate for workers’ rights and economic justice, Senator Smallwood-Cuevas has led with courage in advancing policies that uplift working families and protect vulnerable communities. Her leadership reflects a commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity for all. BWOPA PAC is confident she will continue to be a powerful voice for Black women and communities across California.” Support Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas re-election
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