Battle for Historic Change in L.A. City Council District 9

Estuardo Mazariegos and Jose Ugarte are competing for a city council seat in District 9, representing a section of South Los Angeles. Both are immigrants from Latin America, arriving undocumented as children. Each has established roots in the area as community organizers. The election on November 3 marks a potential historic change for the district, which has seen a Black council member since 1963. Despite the shift in demographics to a Latino majority, both Mazariegos and Ugarte pledge to represent all constituents, including Black residents concerned about the transition.

Jose Ugarte is leading the race, having secured 39% of the vote in the June primary. Previously a deputy chief of staff to council member Curren Price, Ugarte was born in Oaxaca, Mexico. He closely identifies with Price’s reputation as a pro-Latino Black councilman and aims to be recognized as a pro-Black Latino leader. Last year, Ugarte was fined $25,000 for clerical errors in disclosing outside income, a mistake he acknowledges.

Mazariegos, born in Guatemala, co-directs the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment. His experience of diversity growing up shapes his campaign, which emphasizes open communication with community sectors, including Black organizations. His past misdemeanor charge for carrying a concealed weapon, he argues, allows him to relate to those with similar law enforcement encounters.

Council District 9 includes the Convention Center, USC, and neighborhoods like Vermont Square and South Park. Residents struggle with issues like illegal dumping and a lack of grocery stores. Curren Price, the current representative, faces corruption charges and allegations of conflict of interest, embezzlement, and perjury. The district’s nearly 80% Latino population has led to political tensions, further spotlighted by a controversial conversation among Latino city council members that challenged Black-Latino alliances.

Endorsements further illustrate the divide. Ugarte’s support comes from Price and the L.A. County Democratic Party, while Mazariegos is backed by Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez and organizations like the Democratic Socialists of America’s L.A. chapter. Ugarte has amassed significant campaign funding, benefiting from nearly $1 million in independent expenditures with major contributions from companies like Airbnb. Mazariegos, meanwhile, is supported by groups focusing on tenant rights and progressive policies.

Both candidates are actively engaging their potential constituents. Ugarte has visited Black churches, securing endorsements from prominent pastors. Mazariegos attended community events, emphasizing grassroots efforts and tenant advocacy. Local leaders underscore the significance of an Indigenous candidate, reflective of past scandals involving racial remarks.

Odilia Romero, an executive director of an Indigenous advocacy group, highlights the importance of representation. Ugarte aspires to be the first Indigenous Oaxacan council member, aiming to demonstrate that immigrants play a pivotal role in community building.

Mazariegos emphasizes his status as a “community insider,” focused on tangible representation for District 9. His community engagement is constant, advocating at City Hall for reforms like police accountability and expanded council representation. Regardless of the election outcome, local organizers vow to hold the elected council member accountable, ensuring they prioritize working-class residents and their concerns.