STOCKTON, CA — Yesterday, members of the California Hispanic Legislative Caucus (CHLC) traveled to California’s Central Valley to meet with local business leaders, community stakeholders, and local elected officials to hear concerns and discuss the economic and labor challenges facing the region’s key industries.
The bipartisan delegation, comprised of members from both the California State Senate and Assembly, began the day in Lodi, where they hosted a business roundtable focused on regional economic development, workforce needs, and infrastructure. Following the roundtable, the group toured the Port of Stockton for a briefing on port operations, including visits to its cargo terminals, rail infrastructure, and warehousing facilities.
“The Central Valley is an essential component of California’s economic engine, feeding the nation while fueling billions in agricultural exports, jobs, and innovation,” said Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares (R–Santa Clarita). “It’s not just the breadbasket, it’s integral to the state’s economy. We must maintain ongoing dialogue about the needs of these communities.”
Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez (R–Temecula) echoed that sentiment during the port visit. “The Port of Stockton is an essential trade hub, not just for the Central Valley, but for all of California and beyond,” she said. “Seeing firsthand how the port connects our regional economies to global markets, supports thousands of good-paying jobs, and helps relieve congestion at coastal ports was invaluable.”
Located about 75 nautical miles inland from the Pacific Ocean, the Port of Stockton sits on the San Joaquin River Delta and serves as a critical component in California’s supply chain. Each year, it handles nearly five million metric tons of cargo, including agricultural goods, construction materials, and bulk commodities, supports more than 10,000 jobs and generates $77 million in state and local tax revenue.
Throughout the tour, CHLC members emphasized their commitment to identifying policy solutions that support port infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and workforce development. They praised the Port of Stockton as a strong example of balancing economic growth with environmental and regional stewardship.
Participating legislators included CHLC co-chairs Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares and Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez, along with Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (R–Jackson), Assemblyman Juan Alanis (R–Modesto), and Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez (R–Indio).
The Central Valley visit is part of a broader series of listening tours the CHLC is conducting across California to engage directly with local communities and better understand the challenges and opportunities they face.
About the California Hispanic Legislative Caucus
The CHLC represents Latino legislators dedicated to promoting policies that support economic opportunity, quality education, equitable healthcare, and inclusive governance for all Californians—regardless of party affiliation.