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Brian Calderón Tabatabai

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Brian Calderón Tabatabai
Image of Brian Calderón Tabatabai
Elections and appointments
Last election

March 5, 2024

Education

Bachelor's

UCLA, 1999

Graduate

California State University, Los Angeles, 2018

Personal
Birthplace
Los Angeles, Calif.
Religion
Catholic
Profession
Teacher
Contact

Brian Calderón Tabatabai (Democratic Party) ran for election to the California State Assembly to represent District 48. He lost in the primary on March 5, 2024.

Calderón Tabatabai completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Brian Calderón Tabatabai was born in Los Angeles, California. He earned a bachelor's degree from UCLA in 1999 and a graduate degree in leadership from California State University, Los Angeles in 2018. His career experience includes working as a teacher and high school football coach.[1]

Calderón Tabatabai has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]

  • California Teachers Association
  • El Monte Union Educators Association
  • Association of Raza Educators
  • West Covina Kiwanis
  • National Football Foundation
  • American Football Coaches Association
  • Orangewood Elementary PTA

Elections

2024

See also: California State Assembly elections, 2024

General election

General election for California State Assembly District 48

Incumbent Blanca Rubio defeated Dan Tran in the general election for California State Assembly District 48 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Blanca Rubio
Blanca Rubio (D)
 
61.8
 
101,637
Dan Tran (R) Candidate Connection
 
38.2
 
62,880

Total votes: 164,517
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for California State Assembly District 48

Incumbent Blanca Rubio and Dan Tran defeated Brian Calderón Tabatabai in the primary for California State Assembly District 48 on March 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Blanca Rubio
Blanca Rubio (D)
 
41.4
 
27,471
Dan Tran (R) Candidate Connection
 
39.5
 
26,226
Image of Brian Calderón Tabatabai
Brian Calderón Tabatabai (D) Candidate Connection
 
19.1
 
12,712

Total votes: 66,409
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Campaign finance

Endorsements

To view Calderón Tabatabai's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Calderón Tabatabai in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Brian Calderón Tabatabai completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Calderón Tabatabai's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

My name is Brian Calderón Tabatabai, Democrat, and I’m running to represent District 48 in the California Assembly. As the Mayor of West Covina with over two decades as an educator, coach, and mentor, I have dedicated my career to community service.

Our district’s promise that brought my parents here, to build careers, purchase homes and create secure lives for our families, are unfulfilled. As a member of the California Teachers Association, I tirelessly advocated for our students. As a state legislator, I will continue to champion them. I will support our teachers to prepare a first-class generation of thinkers, innovators, and community leaders. We must take action to curb skyrocketing rent costs to prevent our district's most vulnerable communities from being unhoused and displaced, including students and the elderly. I will focus on passing legislation that protects workers’ rights, promotes lifelong career paths and encourages small business growth. These policies will lead to increased city revenue that can address our district's most pressing challenges: housing and homelessness. As a leader of the League of California Cities Public Safety Commission, I have strongly advocated for justice system reform to ensure that everyone, including Indigenous people, those living with disabilities, and veterans, feels welcome in our community. I will fight for your right to feel secure in your community, regardless of your income, beliefs, or who you love.

  • Brian has dedicated his life’s work to ensuring that California’s children get the absolute best education and support in safe, modern schools. He is an advocate for well-funded public schools and sees the proliferation of charter schools, especially in marginalized communities, as a root cause of declining educational outcomes and unequal educational experiences.
  • Housing should be accessible and reasonably priced for individuals and families at various income levels, ensuring that no one is priced out of a safe and stable place to live. Brian is an advocate for increased funding for affordable housing development and rehabilitation projects. He supports strengthening renters’ protections by implementing just-cause eviction policies, limiting rent increases and providing tenants with adequate notice and due process. He also advocates for funding and resources to ensure that tenants have access to legal assistance and representation when facing eviction.
  • The poor and disenfranchised communities in our state typically suffer the brunt of climate change. Brian knows we must address the environmental injustice created by redlining and racially restrictive covenants. Brian address skyrocketing rent and overall housing crisis that leaves residents displaced. Brian knows it’s crucial that disadvantaged communities be included in the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy. This requires a coordinated effort at the local, state and federal levels to address various challenges hindering their prosperity.
Poverty is a policy choice. During the pandemic, we witnessed the benefit experienced from expanding the Federal Child Tax Credit and increasing CalFresh food assistance. This shift toward putting resources directly in the hands of families moves children out of poverty and cut the poverty rate nearly in half. This End Child Poverty policy would increase and expand CalWORKs grants, CalEITC, and the Young Child Tax Credit and support the community school model with wrap-around services for families. These improvements will ensure the resources we are providing are being accessed by those they are intended to support.

I will fight for a Homes Guarantee. We must ensure that every person in California has housing that is safe, accessible, sustainable and permanently affordable. We must pass legislation that aligns funding mechanisms for developers to create the mixed use of affordable housing integrated with the “forgotten middle” to create more diverse communities. Ultimately, we must guarantee California workers are paid a living wage to afford to live in the places they work.

As a public school teacher and parent of a public school student, we must commit to the community school model, where the public school returns to becoming the center of the community. We must resource schools equitably, providing wrap around service for all stakeholders. The Charter/Private school movement has splintered neighborhoods and put at-risk our must vulnerable populations.
James Baldwin embodies courage and truth. Growing up, his voice offered me a lens to understand complex issues of race, identity, and human rights. His fearless confrontation with societal injustices and his eloquent advocacy for equality taught me the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs, regardless of opposition. Baldwin’s writings, rich with introspection and wisdom, guide my approach to life’s challenges, emphasizing empathy, understanding, and the transformative power of love. His legacy inspires me to pursue justice and truth, making him an unparalleled example to follow in a world still grappling with the issues he addressed.
In Martin Luther King Jr.'s seminal work, "Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?", I encountered a political philosophy that deeply resonates with my core values of justice, equality, and peace. His vision of a beloved community, where justice and equality reign, challenges me to rethink my role in fostering harmony and dismantling systems of oppression. His call for economic justice, equal opportunity, and global solidarity challenged me to see beyond my immediate surroundings and consider my place within a larger community. King's belief in the power of love to transform enemies into friends inspires me to approach societal issues with empathy and understanding. This book has profoundly influenced my perspective on activism, urging me to advocate for a world where community triumphs over chaos through collective action and mutual respect. King's philosophy is a guiding light in the pursuit of a just and equitable society.
Honesty, integrity, and hope are foundational principles that define the essence of an effective elected official. These virtues are not merely desirable but essential for fostering trust, ensuring good governance, and inspiring a collective vision for a brighter future. Honesty ensures that leaders communicate truthfully with their constituents, providing a clear and accurate picture of their actions and decisions. This transparency is critical for building trust between the public and those in power. Integrity, on the other hand, signifies the moral courage to uphold ethical standards and make decisions that are in the best interest of the community, even in the face of personal or political pressures. It guarantees accountability and fosters an environment where ethical conduct is the norm, not the exception. Lastly, hope is the principle that motivates change. An elected official imbued with hope can inspire others to believe in the possibility of a better tomorrow, driving societal progress through optimism and a shared vision for improvement. Together, honesty, integrity, and hope are not just principles; they are the bedrock upon which the trust and efficacy of democratic governance rest.
As an elected official, I firmly believe that the foundation of effective leadership rests on the pillars of honesty, integrity, and hope. These qualities are not just virtues I strive to embody; they are the core principles that guide my every action and decision in service to my constituents.

Honesty is paramount in my role. I understand that trust, once broken, is hard to rebuild. Therefore, I commit to transparency in my dealings, ensuring that my constituents are informed and aware of my actions and decisions. This openness fosters a relationship of trust and respect, crucial for collaborative progress.

Integrity is the moral compass that directs my path. It means doing the right thing, even when it's not the easiest option. This commitment to ethical behavior ensures that I remain accountable to the people I serve, prioritizing their welfare above all else. In a landscape often marred by corruption and self-interest, I stand firm in my values, aiming to be a beacon of reliability and moral clarity.

Hope is what drives me forward. In the face of challenges and adversity, it is hope that fuels my determination to effect positive change. I believe in the potential for a better future and work tirelessly to inspire others to share in this vision. It is my responsibility to not only address the issues of today but to lay the groundwork for a brighter tomorrow.

Together, honesty, integrity, and hope are the qualities that define my leadership. They are the bedrock upon which I build my commitment to serve, striving to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I represent.
"Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson is not just my favorite book; it's a profound influence on my understanding of justice, compassion, and the power of human resilience. Stevenson's narrative, rooted in his experiences as a lawyer fighting for those wrongfully condemned or unfairly sentenced, unfolds a compelling critique of the American justice system and its deep-seated inequities. Through his lens, I've been exposed to the harsh realities faced by the marginalized and disenfranchised, compelling me to confront uncomfortable truths about societal injustices.

What makes "Just Mercy" stand out for me is Stevenson's unwavering belief in the dignity of every person, regardless of their circumstances. His empathetic approach to advocacy and his tireless efforts to secure justice for his clients have inspired me to approach challenges with a similar blend of tenacity and compassion. Stevenson demonstrates that mercy is not just an abstract ideal but a tangible force that can transform lives and systems.

The book's narratives of redemption and hope amidst despair have deeply moved me, reinforcing my belief in the potential for change. Stevenson's work serves as a reminder that each of us has the capacity to contribute to a more just and equitable society. "Just Mercy" has shaped my worldview, encouraging me to advocate for fairness and to extend empathy to all, especially the most vulnerable. It's a testament to the enduring power of justice and mercy.
California faces significant challenges in the realms of homelessness, housing affordability, and climate change, which are poised to define its social, economic, and environmental landscape over the next decade. The intertwined nature of these issues presents a complex problem that demands immediate and sustained attention.

Firstly, homelessness remains a persistent and growing issue, exacerbated by the lack of affordable housing. The state's skyrocketing housing costs, driven by an imbalance between supply and demand, have pushed many into precarious living situations or outright homelessness. This crisis is not only a humanitarian concern but also a public health issue, affecting communities across urban and rural areas alike. The struggle to find and maintain stable, affordable housing continues to be a barrier to employment, education, and overall well-being for thousands of Californians.

Secondly, housing affordability is at a critical juncture. The high cost of living, coupled with stagnating wages, has made it increasingly difficult for middle and lower-income families to secure housing without financial strain. This affordability crisis limits economic mobility and contributes to a widening gap between the wealthy and the economically disadvantaged, fostering social inequality.

Lastly, climate change poses an existential threat to California's environmental stability and economic vitality. The state has experienced devastating wildfires, prolonged droughts, and rising sea levels, which threaten infrastructure, agriculture, and water supplies. These environmental challenges exacerbate housing issues, as areas become uninhabitable or insurance costs soar, further limiting affordable housing options.

Addressing these challenges requires innovative policies, significant investment, and collaborative efforts across sectors. Our ability to navigate these issues will be crucial in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for all our residents.
DOLORES HUERTA

Co-founder of the United Farm Workers Association
CONGRESSWOMAN GRACE NAPOLITANO
California’s 31st district
SUPERVISOR HILDA L. SOLIS
LA County Supervisor - 1st district
SPEAKER EMERITUS ANTHONY RENDON
California Assembly
SENATOR BOB ARCHULETA
California Senate District 32
CALIFORNIA TEACHERS ASSOCIATION
LA COUNTY FEDERATION OF LABOR
SEIU STATE COUNCIL
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL VOTERS
CALIFORNIA WORKING FAMILIES PARTY
TEAMSTERS LOCAL 396
AFSCME 3299
DOLORES HUERTA ACTION FUND
THE SIERRA CLUB
SEIU 99
FOOTHILL COMMUNITY DEMOCRATS
LA VOICE
UNITED DEMOCRATS OF THE SAN GABRIEL VALLEY
CWA 9505
SEIU 721
SEIU 1000
SEIU 2015
NATIONAL UNION OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS
CALIFORNIA FEDERATION OF TEACHERS
CALIFORNIA DEMOCRATIC RENTERS COUNCIL
ASIAN DEMOCRATS OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY
IRANIAN AMERICAN DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS
CENTER OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
DR. ANDREW MURPHY
President, Asian Democrats of Los Angeles County
BOARD MEMBER MICHAEL FLOWERS
West Covina Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER JUANITA CRUZ
West Covina Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER ROSE LOPEZ
West Covina Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER JOE MAGALLANES
West Covina Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER EILEEN MIRANDA
West Covina Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER JEANETTE FLORES
Charter Oak Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER GEGG PETERSON
Charter Oak Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER KRISTIN MCGUIRE
Charter Oak Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER CHRISTINE SALAZAR
Hacienda La Puente Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER STEPHANIE SERRANO
Hacienda La Puente Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER ERIK VENEGAS
Rowland Unified School District
BOARD MEMBER YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ-PEÑA
Azusa Unified School District
MIKE GOMEZ

Chair, LA County Consumer Affairs Advisory Commission

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign finance summary


Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.


Brian Calderón Tabatabai campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* California State Assembly District 48Lost primary$218,371 $213,668
Grand total$218,371 $213,668
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. 1.0 1.1 Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on February 3, 2024


Current members of the California State Assembly
Leadership
Majority Leader:Cecilia Aguiar-Curry
Minority Leader:James Gallagher
Representatives
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
District 16
District 17
District 18
Mia Bonta (D)
District 19
District 20
District 21
District 22
District 23
District 24
Alex Lee (D)
District 25
Ash Kalra (D)
District 26
District 27
District 28
District 29
District 30
District 31
District 32
District 33
District 34
District 35
District 36
District 37
District 38
District 39
District 40
District 41
District 42
District 43
District 44
District 45
District 46
District 47
District 48
District 49
Mike Fong (D)
District 50
District 51
Rick Zbur (D)
District 52
District 53
District 54
District 55
District 56
District 57
District 58
District 59
District 60
District 61
District 62
District 63
Vacant
District 64
District 65
District 66
District 67
District 68
District 69
District 70
Tri Ta (R)
District 71
District 72
District 73
District 74
District 75
District 76
District 77
District 78
District 79
District 80
Democratic Party (60)
Republican Party (19)
Vacancies (1)