Join us for our January luncheon with Katie Porter, who will make the case for her candidacy for Governor of California and tell us about how she would lead our state

Could we finally have a Democratic Governor from Southern California? A woman?

Let’s look at history. In the past 80 years, we've had only two Democratic governors from Southern California: Gray Davis, over 20 years ago, and Culbert L. Olson (surely you all remember him!), in 1939. We have had five Southern California Republican governors during that time. Of course, never a woman. And no one, male or female, from Orange County. So Katie as Governor would be an amazing first in many ways.

WIL is planning to introduce you to the leading female candidates for the highest offices in California this year, and we’re excited to kick off this series with Orange County’s very own Katie.

Katie was first elected in 2018 as part of that year’s “Blue Wave,” defeating Mimi Walters, a two-term incumbent who vehemently opposed reproductive rights. After redistricting, she beat anti-choice candidate Scott Baugh to represent the 47th district. She left Congress in 2024 after a failed bid for US Senate.

Now, Katie is aiming to become California’s Governor. She has a plan to tackle the Golden State’s biggest problems, including the affordability and housing crises, and to protect us from the Trump administration’s war on our state and our values.

We hope you’ll join us for a lively conversation with a no-nonsense woman known for blazing trails, holding the powerful to account, making waves, and winning tough races.