SAN PEDRO, CA – Today, retired South Gate mayor Henry C. Gonzalez endorsed Nanette Barragán for Congress in California’s 44th District.

“‘Hammerin Hank’ championed the priorities of the Latino community in South Gate for decades,” said Barragán. “He oversaw the transformation of South Gate into a safer community with real opportunity for hard working people and for families who were looking to build a home and a bright future for their children. His work inspires me in my bid to represent the 44th district in Congress.”

In announcing his endorsement, Mayor Gonzalez cited Barragán’s dedication to fostering safe neighborhoods, creating economic opportunity for the families of the district, and her willingness to take on special interests.

“Nanette demonstrated tremendous courage and integrity when she stood up to Big Oil,” said Gonzalez. “That took guts. I see in her the same drive and passion I brought to the work I did in South Gate. She grew up in this district, and she has immigrant roots just like me. She knows how hard it is for children and families to get ahead if we aren’t giving them access to quality education and good-paying jobs. I know Nanette will continue the work I did in South Gate and further strengthen our community when she is elected to Congress.”

Barragán, the daughter of immigrants from Mexico, grew up in Carson and the surrounding areas where she attended Stephen M. White Middle School, learned to swim at Carson Pool, and studied at the Carson Library. She worked her way through UCLA and law school at USC before becoming a long-time advocate for the environment and the first elected Latina member of the Hermosa Beach City Council. She was also a leader in the fight against Measure O, a ballot measure that would have allowed oil companies to drill for oil in the Santa Monica Bay.

Find more information here: www.barraganforcongress.com

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