America 250: Still Fighting for Freedom
This Saturday marks 250 years since this nation declared its independence, and since then, the story of America has always been the story of who gets to claim that freedom, and who has had to fight for it.
Newsletters
Trump Declared West Oakland a Sacrifice Zone. We’re Fighting Back.
On Monday, I introduced AB 40, the Community First Coal Review Act.
Donald Trump is trying to use a Cold War emergency law to direct $75 million toward the construction of a coal terminal at the former Oakland Army Base, with a documented design capacity of up to 12 million short tons of coal annually, slated to go into operation in 2028. The environmental review that the terminal relies upon is over a decade old. It doesn't reflect the planned coal operations or the science published since it was completed.
AB 40 closes that door. It requires a complete, accurate, and recent Environmental Impact Report before any local agency may approve a new or expanded large-scale coal terminal.
World Cup Soccer Is Here - Are you Ready?
It’s officially here - World Cup 2026 (WC) soccer is kicking off this month, on June 11, for a multi-week soccer extravaganza across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Across the globe, soccer has always been a universal opportunity to unite communities behind a common goal. And as a proud soccer parent, I always appreciate how ‘the beautiful game’ has brought my family closer to each other and to our neighbors as we share the joys and sorrows of soccer fandom.
From Oakland to Memphis: Fighting for Democracy, Housing, and Healthcare
From Oakland to Memphis, an attack on Black voters anywhere is an attack on Black voters everywhere.
This month, Tennessee Republican lawmakers eliminated their state's only majority-Black congressional district within days of a Supreme Court ruling making it nearly impossible to challenge racial gerrymandering. Tennessee legislators who protested were stripped of their committee assignments. One of them, State Representative Justin Jones, was born right here in Oakland.
AD-18 Updates: Money for War but Can’t Feed the Poor
As California crafts its own budget, I can’t help but think about how the President is viewing our federal budget. This Easter at the White House, saying "It's not possible for us to take care of daycare, Medicaid, Medicare” — because we're spending that money on war.
Interns Wanted! Join Asm. Bonta’s Summer Intern Team!
Do you know a high school junior, senior, or college student interested in making a difference in their community? Are you an aspiring problem solver looking to make your mark on California while still in school?
We’re calling on students across Assembly District 18 to apply today to join my Summer 2026 Student Internship Program. This one-of-a-kind opportunity is a 10-week-long internship course held at our Oakland District Office from June 1 to August 7.
Spring has Sprung: Children First, Community Always
I'm proud to share that last month, I launched the California Legislative Children's Caucus, a bipartisan, bicameral caucus of over 40 legislators committed to centering children in everything we do in Sacramento. As someone who spent years leading the East Bay’s schools and education nonprofits before joining the Assembly, I know how far the distance can be between a policy decision and a child's daily life. This caucus is my commitment to closing that gap.
Shape California’s Future: Apply for AALT
On behalf of the California Legislative Black Caucus, it is my honor to invite students from across Assembly District 18 (Alameda, Emeryville, and Oakland) to make their voices a part of California’s political future by applying to participate in the African American Leaders for Tomorrow (AALT) program.
February Updates: Our Struggles are United
This month, as we celebrate Black history and culture, we also confront unprecedented federal attacks on healthcare, immigration, and the systems that support working families. California will not stand silent. From our historic hearing on HR 1's devastating healthcare cuts to local actions creating ICE-free zones, we are defending our values and protecting our neighbors.
Transportation Updates: Stay Moving AD-18
Transportation is the lifeblood of our East Bay communities. Whether you're commuting to work, taking your kids to school, or running daily errands, safe and reliable roads, bridges, and public transit are essential to our quality of life here in Assembly District 18.
I'm writing to share important updates about major infrastructure improvements coming to Oakland and Alameda, new traffic safety measures, and recent AC Transit service changes that may affect your daily commute.