Antonio Villaraigosa

Antonio Villaraigosa is a 2026 California gubernatorial candidate, former mayor of Los Angeles and former speaker of the California State Assembly.

He served as the 41st mayor of Los Angeles from 2005 to 2013. As mayor, he led one of the nation’s largest and most diverse cities through a period of significant growth, focusing on transportation, education reform, public safety, and economic development.

Villaraigosa is widely recognized for his transformative work on transportation infrastructure. He championed and secured funding for major transit expansions, helping to modernize Los Angeles’ mobility system and reduce congestion. His leadership was instrumental in advancing large-scale projects that reshaped how residents move throughout the region.

Before becoming mayor, Villaraigosa served as Speaker of the California State Assembly, where he built a reputation as a skilled consensus-builder and advocate for working families, education, and healthcare access. His political career has been marked by a commitment to expanding opportunity and improving quality of life for underserved communities.

Following his time in public office, Villaraigosa has remained an influential voice in national policy discussions, advising on infrastructure, urban development, and economic opportunity. He is a sought-after speaker who brings firsthand insight into leadership, governance, and navigating complex challenges at the intersection of politics and business.