UPDATE: The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has a new leader as Hilda Solis officially took the gavel on December 2, 2023, replacing Kathryn Barger as chair. This marks a significant moment for the five-member, all-women board, which oversees resources for over 10 million residents and 117,000 county employees.
This is the third time Solis, who represents East L.A. and the San Gabriel Valley, has held the chair position, having previously served in 2016 and 2021. She is expected to face substantial challenges ahead, particularly concerning budget cuts that threaten essential social services.
In her inaugural remarks, Solis highlighted the urgent need to address a significant budget shortfall, exacerbated by the recent $1.5 billion decrease in revenues stemming from the HR1 budget bill signed by former President Trump. “The board will continue to contend with reductions in resources,” Solis stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the county as a critical safety net for low-income residents.
“With so many cuts to federal services, the county needs to continue to be that safety net,” Solis added, underscoring the pressing impact these changes will have on vulnerable communities.
Solis’s focus on combating the Trump administration’s policies is no coincidence. She has been a vocal critic of cuts to social services, escalating Obamacare premiums, and ongoing immigration raids that affect families across the county. As her term nears its end next year, Solis has announced her intention to run for a seat in Congress, likely targeting California’s newly drawn 38th Congressional District.
This new district has been shaped by a recent statewide redistricting measure and includes areas like El Monte, Bell, Commerce, and parts of Orange County. Solis is poised to be a formidable candidate, drawing on her extensive experience from her previous tenure in Congress and her role as Secretary of Labor in President Obama’s Cabinet.
“Supervisor Solis is a living legend,” praised Third District Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, who commended Solis for her advocacy on immigration and environmental issues. “More importantly, you are a fighter. You are exactly the woman for this moment.”
Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn echoed this sentiment, recognizing Solis’s commitment to the immigrant community during a time when federal raids continue to pose threats to local families.
As Solis steps into her role, she will also oversee a newly formed vice chair, Holly Mitchell, who was voted in unanimously. The board also took a moment to acknowledge Barger’s contributions, particularly her efforts in securing resources for victims of recent natural disasters.
Moving forward, all eyes will be on Solis as she navigates the complex landscape ahead. Her leadership will be crucial in addressing the pressing needs of Los Angeles County residents amid ongoing financial challenges and political shifts.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Solis embarks on her new role and prepares for her congressional campaign.
