Member of the State Assembly, 53rd District in State Assembly District 53, California

2026 Primary Election

• Michelle Rodriguez — Member of the California State Assembly in Pomona, California

  Michelle Rodriguez is the incumbent for the 53rd Assembly District, having assumed office in December 2024. She was born in Ontario, California, and is a lifelong resident of the district. Her career experience includes working in healthcare administration for Inter Valley Health Plan and ProMed Healthcare Administrators, as well as serving as a campus security officer for the Pomona Unified School District. Prior to her election, she was a member of the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). She and her husband, former Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez, have four children and live in Pomona.

• Rafaela Romero — Special Education Aide in Ontario, CA

  Rafaela Romero is a Republican candidate for California State Assembly District 53. She currently works as a special education aide and has previous experience working in the grocery sector. Romero grew up in Chino, California, and now resides in Ontario. Her campaign focuses on addressing financial pressures and economic challenges facing families and students in the Inland Empire.