Chavez was interested in policy and government since his graduation from Bell Gardens High School in 2015. (Photo courtesy of Jorgel Chavez)
As Jorgel Chavez begins another semester of online learning at the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, he faces a new challenge far different from readjusting to Zoom classes and speaking with prospective students as a Price student ambassador: governing the people of Bell Gardens.
In November, Chavez won the election for Councilmember of Bell Gardens by a margin of 899 votes. He successfully ran against four challengers for two seats, including 21-year incumbent Pedro Aceituno.
Chavez, who didn’t make any promises throughout his grassroots campaign, told constituents that “I’m not the trustee, I’m the delegate.” His campaign platform looked to tackle homelessness and community safety while maintaining transparency throughout the process.