Despite National Setback CFA Members Won in Statewide Elections

CFA members and endorsed candidates had huge wins in statewide races during the November 5 General Election. These candidates won because of our thousands of hours of support, resolve, and dedication to moving a pro-union, anti-racism, and social justice agenda.

CFA Channel Islands Member At-Large Dr. Mari Estrada won her Oxnard High School Trustee seat with the support of CFA members.

“While national results have left many of us feeling disappointment and concern for the next four years, the statewide and local victories we’ve achieved strengthen my resolve. I’m so grateful the support I received from CFA in my candidacy for local office,” said Estrada, a CSU Channel Islands part-time Lecturer in early childhood studies. “Moving forward, I hope to see an increase in our involvement in political action — both as a union and within our individual chapters. Shying away from politics is definitely a factor in this devastating national setback, we cannot afford to stand on the sidelines.

“We need to elect more union- and family-friendly candidates who understand the importance of education, care deeply about our communities, and are committed to the well-being of all. Together, we can build a future that reflects these values and ensures our voices are heard in shaping the policy that impacts our daily lives.”

CFA member and San Diego State Lecturer faculty in the Department of Africana Studies Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins easily won her race for the California State Assembly District 79. Dr. Sharp-Collins served as district director under California Secretary of State Shirley Weber (then California State Assemblymember). She ran on a platform focused on the necessity of affordable housing and the crisis of houselessness. Education and reproductive rights were also cornerstones of her campaign.

CFA-endorsed Dr. Darshana Patel won a difficult race in the 76th Assembly District seat. A research scientist, Patel has served on the Poway Unified School Board, motivated by addressing fiscal mismanagement. Her campaign focused on affordability, from the cost of childcare to attaining safe and affordable housing.

CFA-endorsed candidate Sade Elhawary won her big for the South Los Angeles 57th Assembly District. A former teacher and community organizer, Elhawary had never run for public office. She is the daughter of Guatemalan and Egyptian immigrants.