Tanya Cook: A Voice for Change in California’s 70th Assembly District

Amidst the vibrant backdrop of Garden Grove, where her two small businesses flourish, Tanya Cook remains unfazed by the daunting landscape of California politics. The ambitious single mother of four, deeply rooted in her community, has bravely stepped into the fray to contest for a seat in California’s 70th Assembly District against the well-established Tri Ta, R-Westminster. “My heart’s always been in politics,” Cook states resolutely. “This isn’t really a career change; it was more of an opportunity to finally stand up and do something.”

A Personal Journey into Politics

Born in Honolulu to a U.S. Navy father and a nurse mother, Cook’s family has immigration complexities that resonate with many constituents in her district. Having lived in Orange County since the age of eight, Cook navigated the challenges of single motherhood, entrepreneurship, and education—all while striving for a degree in political science at Cypress College. “Every family deserves safety, dignity, and a chance to build their future without fear of being torn apart,” she emphasizes, framing her political ambitions as a necessary response to community needs.

The Political Landscape

California’s 70th Assembly District has seen a demographic shift that highlights the need for representation. With a substantial immigrant population, the district’s registered voters reflect a delicate balance: 35.7% Democrats, 34.1% Republicans, and 26.4% without party preference. Cook is aware of these statistics and recognizes that her campaign is not just about winning a seat; it’s about amplifying the voices of those who feel unheard.

• Immigration: Cook aims to expand sanctuary protections and advocate for state-funded legal defense for immigrant families.
• Health Care: Pushing for universal health care and safeguarding Medi-Cal, which supports her child’s health needs.
• Homelessness: Proposing new housing solutions, including repurposing the Los Alamitos military training base for homeless veterans.

In Cook’s view, the incumbent, Tri Ta, has not adequately represented the changing needs of the district. Ta, who first took office in 2022, champions a more conservative platform and is running for re-election in 2026, leaving communication open for Cook to challenge the status quo. “There is a pressing need for advocates who prioritize people over profits,” said Dr. Elena Martinez, a political scientist at California State University, Fullerton. “Cook’s campaign reflects a growing trend among constituents who seek greater accountability from their representatives.”

Issues at Stake

Cook’s platform touches deeply on immigration, a personal issue for her given her family’s background. “My family is an immigrant family,” she reflects, making it evident why this topic weighs heavily on her campaign. With recent protests surrounding immigration policies in both Orange and Los Angeles counties, she believes there is an essential opportunity for change.

As a student of politics, Cook understands the data-driven demands constituents place on their leaders. Recent studies indicate that 71% of California voters endorse pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, further supporting her advocacy. “This is not merely a legal issue; it’s a dignity issue,” she asserts passionately. “We must ensure that all families feel safe and represented.”

Health Care and Homelessness

In addition to her immigration stance, Cook is advocating for universal health care. “Medi-Cal has been crucial for my family,” she recounts, noting her reliance on the program for her child’s health. With growing concerns around health care accessibility, she aims to push policies that extend coverage without overburdening taxpayers. “The health of our community should not be a privilege—it should be a right,” she states.

Homelessness, another pressing issue in the 70th District, is something Cook addresses with proposed innovative solutions. “Repurposing the Los Alamitos base for veterans is a pragmatic approach to a debilitating issue,” she remarks, embodying her commitment to practical solutions. Dr. Samuel Thompson, a social policy researcher, remarks, “Cook’s focus on veteran homelessness not only addresses acute logistical issues but also respects those who served our country.”

A Commitment to Accountability

In an era where political funding often sways candidate intentions, Cook stands firm in her principles. “I don’t want to be owned by corporate interests because I don’t represent them; I represent the people in my community,” she declares. Her commitment to refusing PAC and super PAC funding is more than an ethical stance; it’s a strategy to build trust within a community that yearns for greater representation and less corporate influence.

As her campaign gains momentum, Cook also engages with various community organizations, acting as the president of the Garden Grove High School Aquatics Booster Club and participating in multiple Democratic clubs across Orange County. Through these roles, she builds relationships grounded in communal welfare, not political expediency.

In a district that includes culturally rich neighborhoods like Little Saigon, voters are not merely seeking a representative; they are looking for a champion of their shared values, one who understands their struggles and aspirations intimately. Tanya Cook aims to fulfill that role. “Once I get to Sacramento, I am going to represent the community,” she promises. “My door will be open and available to both sides of the aisle, not just Democrats.”

Tanya Cook’s campaign reflects not just a personal journey, but a collective aspiration for meaningful representation in California’s thriving yet diverse landscape. As the election approaches, all eyes will watch how this dynamic single mother and business leader aims to reshape the barometer of political engagement in her district.