UPDATE: Hilda Solis has officially been named the new chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, taking over from Kathryn Barger during a pivotal meeting on December 2, 2023. This marks a significant moment as the board, composed entirely of women, oversees a vast population of 10 million residents and manages 117,000 county employees.
Solis, who represents East L.A. and the San Gabriel Valley, assumes leadership for her third time, having previously served as chair in 2016 and 2021. With her term concluding next year, her leadership will be crucial as the board navigates financial challenges ahead.
“We have to address a significant hold in our budget,” Solis stated, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle reductions in resources stemming from the HR1 budget bill that cuts federal social services. “The county needs to continue to be that safety net,” she added, highlighting the impact of federal cuts on low-income residents.
The urgency of Solis’s role is amplified by ongoing political tensions. She has made it clear that combating the policies of the Trump administration remains a priority. The board’s focus on social service cuts and immigration issues reflects the pressing concerns of the community during her tenure.
As Solis prepares for her upcoming congressional campaign—targeting the newly established California’s 38th Congressional District—her experience in Congress and as Labor Secretary under President Obama positions her as a strong candidate. The newly drawn district includes areas such as El Monte, Bell, and Anaheim, which are critical to her electoral strategy.
Third District Supervisor Lindsey Horvath praised Solis, stating, “Supervisor Solis is a living legend… You are exactly the woman for this moment.” This sentiment underscores the emotional weight of Solis’s leadership as the board faces pressing issues.
Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn echoed this, noting Solis’s dedication to the immigrant community during a time of increased raids. These comments illustrate the board’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations amid ongoing challenges.
Additionally, Second District Supervisor Holly Mitchell was unanimously elected as vice chair of the board, signaling a cohesive leadership team ready to tackle the year ahead.
As Solis takes the gavel, all eyes will be on her actions and policies in the coming months. The board’s initiatives will be vital not just for Los Angeles County but also for setting a precedent in the broader political landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates on Solis’s leadership and her upcoming congressional campaign, as these developments unfold rapidly in the days to come.
