Ari Ruiz

Ari, a native of Mexico City, relocated to Los Angeles at the age of 10 in pursuit of a better future. Unfortunately, his father's battle with cancer led to his untimely passing, compelling Ari, his mother, and siblings to immigrate to the United States in search of new opportunities. To provide for their family, Ari's mother resorted to cleaning homes, while they have remained tenants since their arrival in 2001.

Throughout his career, Ari has garnered invaluable experience working alongside notable figures in federal, state, and local government. Notably, he has collaborated with influential leaders such as Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Retired Assemblywoman Autumn Burke, Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, and former LAUSD Board Member Steve Zimmer. Lending his expertise to nonprofit organizations, Ari has demonstrated his commitment to community development. He served as a valuable asset to El Sereno's Barrio Action, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding at-risk youth and their families. Additionally, he contributed to The Laurel Foundation, offering assistance to families affected by HIV/AIDS.

In 2016, Ari embarked on his journey with Assemblywoman Burke's office, initially as a dedicated Field Deputy. Demonstrating his determination and capability, he steadily climbed the career ladder to eventually assume the position of Deputy District Director. During his legislative endeavors, Ari focused on a range of important issues, including advocacy for small businesses, environmental conservation, facilitating access to unemployment benefits, and safeguarding the rights of both the LGBT and immigrant communities.