Cedillo Backs Guttierez in City Council Race

Adding to the divided endorsements among state legislators in the crowded Eastside City Council race, Assemblyman Gil Cedillo said Monday that he is supporting Juan Jose Guttierez to replace Richard Alatorre in the 14 District.

“I think Juan Jose is the most appropriate given his deep roots there, his fierce and unquestionable advocacy and commitment and given his skills set that I think will grow in that office,” Cedillo (D-Los Angeles) said. “I’m excited and pleased to see him put his name in the hat.’

Guttierez runs One Stop Immigration, a nonprofit counseling center in Boyle Heights that is often considered responsible for registering thousands of new voters in the council’s 14th District.

Cedillo’s endorsement comes after Assembly Speaker Antonio Villaraigosa (D-Los Angeles) and Richard Polanco (D-Los Angeles), the state Senate majority leader, formally endorsed Victor Griego on Friday. And, challenger Luis Cetina received the support of Assemblyman Tony Cardenas (D-Sylmar), as well as the biggest union in the city, the Service Employees International Union. He is also backed by Alatorre, who has not officially endorsed in the race.

Sylvia Robledo has the support of state Sen. Marta Escutia (D-Whittier) and Assemblywoman Nell Soto (D-Pomona). And, Alvin Parra has the backing of the northeast Democratic club as well as union support.

The candidates say that they will use their endorsements to help raise money and to win more votes. The 13 candidates in the 14th District race have until the April 13 primary to get their message to voters and to win some name recognition.