Suzette Martinez Valladares

Suzette Martinez Valladares is a Republican member of the California State Senate representing District 23, which includes the Lancaster and Antelope Valley regions. Born on December 21, 1980, she is a small businesswoman with deep roots in the Santa Clarita Valley and surrounding areas. She began her career at Six Flags Magic Mountain and has maintained strong community ties throughout her professional life. Valladares is married with one child and continues to reside in the district she represents.

Education

Valladares earned a degree in political science from California State University, Northridge. She initially pursued higher education at College of the Canyons before transferring to CSU Northridge to complete her degree.

Political Experience

Valladares was elected to the California State Assembly in 2020, representing the 38th district, which encompassed the Santa Clarita Valley and Simi Valley. She served one term in the Assembly before being elected to the California State Senate in 2024, where she currently serves.

Prior to her legislative career, Valladares worked as a district representative for Congressman Buck McKeon from 2009 to 2012 and served as the executive director of Southern California Autism Speaks. She also directed California's Hispanic outreach for the Republican National Committee.

Valladares is a founding member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus and serves in the California Hispanic Legislative Caucus. Her legislative work has focused on affordability, public safety, and education. She has authored landmark legislation on preschool accessibility and affordability, co-authored gas tax reduction measures, and authored legislation providing resources for crime victims. During the pandemic, she advocated for reopening businesses and coordinated vaccine clinics in vulnerable communities.