The Delegates

#1 Janice O'Malley Gallizio - Labor Advocate (Carmichael)

I live in Carmichael with my husband and 3 teenaged children who attend San Juan schools. I started my political campaign career 20 years ago - motivated by my experience as a daughter of immigrants and a passion for women’s rights. From the moment I volunteered for my first presidential campaign in 2000, I knew that my life's work would include advancing Democratic causes and candidates. I had the great fortune of being trained by labor activists like Fred Ross, Jr. and Dolores Huerta as a field organizer for the 2004 John Kerry for President campaign, which led to a career in labor as a union organizer and political coordinator for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), AFL-CIO, where I am currently a Political Action Representative - helping lobby for bills that support workers and actively engaging our members in campaign politics.

Since moving to California 10 years ago, I have been an active volunteer with the Asian Pacific Islander community and the Sacramento Labor Council. I also served as an elected officer and member of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance from 2021-2022. 

I believe that now, more than ever, we should be steering the party in a direction that engages in messaging that will encourage and inspire those not often included in the process to become involved and develop a platform that truly speaks to the core issues that impact everyday Californians. As a delegate, I will encourage and support strong candidates to run for elected office and I will be a fierce advocate of a woman's right to choose. I believe that all citizens have the right to a liveable wage, affordable health care, a safe workplace and access to quality public services.

Thank you for your consideration.

#2 Danielle Sivalingam - Returning Delegate & Women’s Rights Advocate (Folsom)

I am a Folsom resident with a deep passion for advancing Democratic causes and candidates. I have been involved in California politics for over 20 years. I led my local Young Democrats club during the 2017-2018 election cycle, during which time we worked tirelessly to flip 4 local congressional seats from red to blue and fought against President Trump’s antagonistic policies. I’ve continued my volunteer efforts since that time. I have been an active member of the Folsom Area Democratic Club, and in 2024, I volunteered walking many many doors for Porsche Middleton, Jessica Morse, and other local candidates.

I am an advocate for women’s rights. During my tenure as chair of my local Young Democrats, I helped give a voice to young women in our party who had been harassed and abused by a party boss. Thanks to our efforts,the individual is no longer in a position in power. 

I believe in the promise of America, but also believe we have lots of work to do under Trump’s presidency. I am committed to advancing Democratic values and if elected I will work to fight AGAINST Trump’s agenda and FOR what matters to our fellow Californians.

#3 Jag Nagendra - Community Leader (Folsom)

Jag’s journey in community leadership began with his involvement in the City of Davis’s Business and Economic Development Commission as a Commissioner, where he quickly learned the importance of economic development to the City’s health and its impact on citizen’’ quality of life. This experience laid the foundation for his subsequent roles, including leadership positions in several prominent non-profits such as India Association of Davis, PMI Sacramento Valley Chapter, Kannada Sangha of Sacramento, Cal Expo State Fair, and Sacramento Entrepreneurship Academy.

In addition to his work with nonprofits, Jag has been a key figure in local government, serving on various boards and committees. He has been instrumental in shaping policies that address critical community issues, from cultural inclusion, community planning, to public safety. His ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders has been a hallmark of his leadership, ensuring that the voices of all community members are heard and valued. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions, including Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award from Toastmaster International.

Jag has been actively involved with the Democratic Party. He currently serves as a Vice President of Folsom Area Democratic Club and has been associated with the club since 2018. He has participated in several political actions, including fundraising, phone banking, GOTV campaign, rallying, and canvassing for endorsed candidates.

#4 Brian Sittner - Returning Delegate (Fair Oaks)

Hello everyone! My name is Brian Sittner and I am currently residing in the Fair Oaks area and running with the California Forward slate to be one of your AD7 representatives. I'm running for re-election to be a delegate after completing my first term in 2023. Throughout 2024, I spent my time politically, supporting Porsche Middleton who was running for Assembly and I was supporting Jessica Morse as well who was running for Congress in Congressional District 3. As for the rest of the time, I continue to be an active member at Democrat clubs in my area.

Since 2018 I have been a supporter of Single Payer/Medicare For All and I've been involved with other supporters by canvassing and communicating with others to improve our broken health care system.

My goal as a returning delegate for AD7 is to continue pushing for progressive policies for California such as CalCare (Medicare For All) and supporting workers who are organizing unions at companies such as Amazon, Starbucks, and Wells Fargo. My political influences are: Senator Bernie Sanders, Robert Reich, Brian Tyler Cohen, and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to name a few

#5 David Sanders - Democratic Club Leader (Fair Oaks)

[Biography]

#6 Julian Sarafian - Attorney (Folsom)

My name is Julian Sarafian and I’m running with the California Forward slate to be one of your AD7 representatives.

California is at a crossroads. We remain the nation's preeminent economy and cultural powerhouse. We have unparalleled natural beauty. But our state faces crises that demand bold leadership. The unhoused crisis has rendered many of our residents without shelter, forcing folks onto the street while also impairing the quality of life for all citizens. Our wildfires are worsening. We pay the highest taxes and the most for real estate in the country.

I'm running to fight for solutions to make California cleaner, stronger, and safer. We need to resolve the homelessness crisis with audits on our spending paired with California-centric policies like limiting aid to California residents. We need to address the housing crisis by streamlining homebuilding and hiring judges to handle the overloaded case system of housing-related litigation. And our state needs to promote intelligent economic policy, including regular audits of our spending and avoiding bond-heavy policymaking that burdens future generations with higher taxes.

As Democrats, we have work to do to prove to the nation that Democratic policies work for everyone. I want to be part of the solution in helping our state reach its potential. That means focusing on competency with a twin goal of fighting for values that define the Democratic party, like supporting workers, protecting minority communities, women's reproductive freedoms, gun safety, climate action, and progressive taxation. With a second Trump term in full swing, it's urgent that we build a brand steeped in approachable policymaking to take back control of government.

I grew up in Folsom. After graduating Folsom High I majored in Economics at UC Berkeley before attending Harvard Law School. I've worked at the White House under President Obama and later as an attorney with law firm Wilson Sonsini. Now, I represent small businesses in my own legal practice, and when I'm not working, you can find me snowboarding at Heavenly, helping grow the Folsom Area Democratic Club, and spending time with my wife and our two dogs.

To contact me, reach out to julian@juliansarafian.com. Together let’s move California Forward!

#8 Matt Depa - Negotiator (Carmichael)

My name is Matt Depa and I am running with the California Forward slate to represent you as one of your AD7 representatives.In my current role as a Negotiator with my employer of the past 17 years, my leadership and empathy allow me to resolve differences between parties. I am eager to bring those skills–problem solving, collaboration and open dialogue–to the role of delegate for Assembly District Seven. 

I moved to California from West Virginia when I was eleven years old and quickly embraced the state’s vibrant culture. Although I have lived elsewhere at times, California has always been my home, and my heart has always led me back to this place that I love. In recent years, my interest in politics has grown significantly, especially in the face of the critical issues we face today. After settling in Carmichael four years ago with my wife, I became involved by joining the American River Democrats and recently became a member of the Folsom Area Democratic Club. 

I am grateful to be included in the California Forward slate. Running as a delegate gives me the opportunity to fight for essential values within the Democratic Party, such as protecting women’s reproductive freedoms and ensuring equal protections for the LGBTQI community. As a dedicated community member, I believe in the power of collaboration, open dialogue, and inclusive representation. 

As your delegate, I am committed to being your voice, advocating for policies that benefit us all, and working towards meaningful solutions.  Thank you for your support.  Together, let’s make a positive difference in our state and move California Forward!

#9 Rochelle “Shelly” Amrhein - Environmental Program Manager (Orangevale)

My name is Rochelle (Shelly) Amrhein, and I am running with the California Forward slate to be one of your Assembly District 7 representatives because I am committed to justice, equity, and sustainability.

I was born and raised in Carmichael, and currently live in Orangevale with my husband and two children who attend our local public schools, so I have strong ties to our community. My educational background is in conservation biology, and I have used this as a parent volunteer and PTO Board member to raise awareness of the natural resources in our area and the importance of protecting them. My professional background is in environmental policy and planning, so I have a broad understanding of environmental and land use regulations and guidelines. In my role as an environmental scientist and program manager, I have worked to ensure that our natural resources are protected, underrepresented communities are heard, and California tribes have a voice.

I believe it is essential to advocate for policy changes and programs that empower women and underrepresented communities; make housing, education, and healthcare available to all; and foster a healthier and more inclusive society. I believe that access to clean water and air are basic human rights. As such, I am dedicated to protecting our environment for this and future generations as well as ensuring safe, reliable infrastructure for all communities.

Over the past several years I have become active in democratic organizations and am currently the Communications Co-Chair for the Folsom Area Democratic Club (FADC). I would like to take what I have learned through my educational and professional experience and my work with FADC to advocate for us all as an Assembly District 7 Delegate. My goal is to help revitalize the Democratic Party with a vision for a more equitable, inclusive, critical-thinking, forward-moving world, starting with California.

Thank you for your support. Together let’s move California Forward!

#10 Justin Hurst - Non-Profit Leader (Folsom)

My name is Justin Hurst and I am running with the California Forward slate to be one of your AD7 representatives.

I have lived in the Sacramento region my entire life. I grew up in Folsom, received my undergraduate degrees from UC Davis, and completed my Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from Sacramento State. While in Davis, I experienced firsthand some of the challenges of navigating our healthcare system as I served as a caretaker for my late father. Those experiences taught me the dual challenges of healthcare affordability and the dearth in support for caretakers. As a father of a 2-year-old, I also understand the unique challenges that families face when it comes to the affordability of childcare and how costs have ballooned in the past few years. In my career, I have also had the opportunities to interact with state policies directly. I currently work for the state in a budgeting capacity, am familiar with the education landscape and regulatory space, and have served as the leader of several organizations of varying sizes. Through starting a small business, I have been on both ends of state policies.

I serve as the President and CEO of Citizen Advocates Network, a non-profit dedicated to giving citizens the tools to better understand how government works and as a consequence become better organized. I hope to take the lessons that I have learned in this role to the state level. I have had the opportunity to get to know many people in this district through my associated podcast, and as a result hope to stay in touch with what the people of this district care most about. Together we can move California Forward!

I am fortunate to be running with a slate of highly qualified candidates that understand the importance of getting policy right. Several prominent democrats and organizations have met us and believe in our vision. Finally, any AD7 resident can reach out to me on social media or via email, at jth9654@gmail.com.

#11 Chris Clark - School Board Trustee (Rancho Cordova)

Chris and his wife Jean have been residents of Rancho Cordova for 15 years. He is currently serving his third term on the Board of Education for the Folsom Cordova Unified School District, and is the first African American to be elected to that seat. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the California School Board Association, as state wide agency. Chris is also serves on the Board of Directors for Easter Seals of Northern California, and on the Board of Directors of Buy Board, a National Purchasing company in Austin Texas.

While serving in the United States Air Force, he received his degree in Business Administration at Park College in Missouri. After returning home, he began working for the City of Stockton where he worked with the disadvantaged youth in Stockton’s Conway area. In October 2018, he completed his Masters in Governance program through the California School Board Association.

In 1993, He began serving his community as a member of the Laguna Sunrise Rotary Club in Elk Grove CA. In 2000, He became their club President and one of the youngest African American Presidents in the Country. He was again elected to a second term as President in 2010. In 2014, He was elected for his third term as President and became a Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary Club of Rancho Cordova Sunrise.

He has been appointed to several City and County Board Positions. He is a graduate of Leadership Rancho Cordova Class VII, and is very active in the Rancho Cordova Business Community, by previously serving on the Board of Directors for the Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce as well as serving as the President of the Cordova High PTSA for two years. He had worked for the Folsom Cordova Community Partnership for the past 10 years before he became a Program Manager of Youth & Education for the Greater Sacramento Urban League, working with disadvantaged and underserved youth.

#12 Kristina Bas Hamilton - Labor Advocate (Folsom)

My name is Kristina Bas Hamilton, running as a member of the California Forward slate for ADEM District 07. I am a longtime community and labor union advocate, and have been raising a family in Folsom home for over ten years. I also serve as the political and legislative director for UDW/AFSCME Local 3930, one of California’s most active unions, representing home care and childcare providers.

I am deeply committed to and have a long history of advocating for the rights of caregivers - child care and homecare providers.

I am running as a delegate because I believe the voices of caregivers, children, seniors, and people with disabilities must be elevated and prioritized. I am honored to have won the endorsement of UDW.

With your support, I will also fight to:

✓ Create high quality, mortgage-paying jobs so all Californians can live with dignity and economic security.

✓ Expand access to affordable, quality childcare to support working families and promote early childhood development.

✓ Protect the planet by adopting climate solutions so our children and future generations inherit a healthy, living Earth.

I am committed to advancing these critical issues and ensuring they remain at the forefront of policy decisions that impact our community.

Together, let’s move California Forward!

#16 Kara Lofthouse - School Board Trustee (Folsom)

[Biography]

#24 Hla Elkhatib - Community Activist (Folsom)

My name is Hla Elkhatib and I am running with the California Forward slate to be one of your AD7 representatives because I have a deep commitment to public service and am passionate about promoting policies that reflect the needs of all our residents. I am have been a resident for Folsom for over 25 years and am a proud Folsom High School and Folsom Lake College Alumna. I have always been active in my community, from interning at the Folsom Unified School District as a high schooler to running for Folsom City Council in 2024.

My drive to serve our community led me to run for Folsom City Council just this last year where I connected with over ten thousand residents by knocking on every door in my district to hear my neighbor's stories and concerns. I am proud of the competitive grassroots campaign that we, as a community, were able to spearhead. Prior to my run for office, I worked in the Legislature as a Legislative Aide to Senator Dave Cortese. In this role, I was able to work on important policies that shaped the trajectory of our state by strengthening our civil rights protections, creating more equity for all students in our schools, and ensuring our seniors get the care they deserve. As your delegate, I will advocate for policies and leaders that are aligned in my mission to uplift our communities and address many of the state-wide issues we face.

#25 Rehana Rehman - Community Advocate (Rancho Cordova)

Born under the sunny skies of Pasadena, CA, my early years were a whirlwind of cultures and adventures as a first-generation Trinidadian-Pakistani American Muslim family. As the eldest of five siblings and the ringleader of 27 grandkids, my life was never short of excitement. At just two years old, our family moved to the Middle East for my dad’s thrilling work opportunity. There, I attended a British private school and enjoyed summers filled with jet-setting back to the States. We returned to the U.S. permanently in 1991. Growing up in Covina and then Redlands, CA, I developed a deep appreciation for community and education, eventually graduating from Redlands High School. Juggling family life, I pursued my passion for literature, fueled by some incredible professors at De Anza College. This journey led me to UC Berkeley, where I completed my degree in English Literature.

My career in marketing, particularly in digital communications and social media, has been enriched by over two decades of extensive volunteer work. I've had the privilege of working at Brocade, Cisco, and ChargePoint, and serving as an Executive Social Media Coach for many C-level tech executives. One of my greatest blessings was working closely with my mentor and former Apple exec, Denise Young, who instilled in me the importance of DEIB in both professional and personal spaces—insights I bring to my campaign today.

From serving as a Teacher’s Assistant at De Anza College to managing club soccer teams and leading PTA programs, I've embraced roles that highlight my commitment to community service and leadership. My involvement with the Saratoga Unified School District's Comprehensive Sexuality Education working group and various PTA positions underscores my dedication to enhancing educational experiences for all students. In the summer of 2021, we moved to South Rancho during the pandemic to be closer to my parents. It was tough to move during the Covid era and start fresh in a new community, but we were welcomed with open arms, which was heartwarming.

As a National Charity League member and passionate advocate for education and community engagement, I am driven by a desire to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all. I believe in transparency, open communication, and the power of community and collaboration. Let's connect and create a positive impact together with empathy, empowerment, and a focus on equity.