Sabrina Cervantes

Sabrina Cervantes is an American politician currently serving as a member of the California State Senate, representing the 31st district. A member of the Democratic Party, she previously served in the California State Assembly from 2016 to 2024, where she represented the 58th Assembly District. Cervantes is notable for her contributions to legislative processes and her advocacy for various social issues, particularly those affecting her constituents in Riverside County and surrounding areas.

Early life and career

Sabrina Cervantes was born on October 24, 1987, in Riverside County, California. Growing up in a politically engaged family, her father, Greg Cervantes, served as the mayor of Coachella, and her sister, Clarissa Cervantes, is a member of the Riverside City Council. This familial background likely influenced her interest in public service and politics from a young age.

Cervantes pursued her higher education at the University of California, Riverside, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science, complemented by a minor in public policy. Her academic journey continued at the prestigious Harvard University, where she completed an Executive Education program at the Kennedy School of Government. This educational foundation provided her with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in public service and legislative affairs.

Before entering the political arena, Cervantes gained valuable experience in various roles. She served as a District Director for a member of the California State Assembly, where she honed her understanding of legislative processes and constituent services. Additionally, she worked as the Director of the California Voter Project, focusing on voter engagement and participation in the democratic process. Her career also included private sector work and collaboration with community organizations aimed at enhancing the local economy, improving access to quality education, and increasing governmental service accessibility.

Cervantes has been actively involved in several organizations that reflect her commitment to social issues. She is a member of the Human Rights Campaign and The PICK Group of Young Professionals, and she serves on the Advisory Board for the University of California, Riverside School of Public Policy. Her previous board memberships include the UCR Chicano Latino Alumni Association and non-profit organizations such as TruEvolution and Women Wonder Writers. These affiliations demonstrate her dedication to advocating for marginalized communities and promoting social equity.

Legislative service

Cervantes began her legislative career when she was elected to the California State Assembly in November 2016, representing the 58th Assembly District. She won her seat by defeating the incumbent Republican Eric Linder, marking a significant political shift in the district. During her time in the Assembly, she gained recognition for her leadership and commitment to various issues, particularly those affecting her constituents in Riverside County.

In 2019, Cervantes made history as the first member of the California State Legislature to give birth to triplets while serving in office. This milestone highlighted her ability to balance the demands of public service with personal life, and it resonated with many constituents who appreciated her representation of working families.

Throughout her tenure in the Assembly, Cervantes held several key leadership positions. She served as the chair of the Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy, as well as the Assembly Select Committee on Veteran Employment and Education. In addition, she was a member of several important committees, including Banking & Finance, Communications & Conveyance, and Public Employees & Retirement. These roles allowed her to influence legislation that impacts economic development, education, and public service.

In 2024, Cervantes transitioned to the California State Senate, where she currently represents the 31st district. Her move to the Senate reflects her ongoing commitment to public service and her desire to continue advocating for her constituents at a higher level of government. As a senator, she continues to focus on issues that are important to her district and the state of California.

Policy focus and district

Cervantes represents the 31st Senate District, which includes parts of Riverside County and is characterized by its diverse population and growing communities. The district encompasses areas such as Jurupa Valley, Corona, Eastvale, and Riverside, as well as portions of San Bernardino County. This demographic diversity informs her policy priorities and legislative initiatives.

Throughout her legislative career, Cervantes has focused on a variety of issues, including economic development, education, healthcare access, and social justice. Her work in the Assembly and now in the Senate reflects her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for her constituents. She has been particularly active in advocating for policies that support working families, improve access to education, and promote economic opportunities in her district.

Cervantes is also a member of several legislative caucuses, including the California Latino Legislative Caucus, the California Legislative Women's Caucus, and the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus. These affiliations underscore her dedication to representing the interests of diverse communities and advocating for policies that promote equity and inclusion.

In addition to her legislative responsibilities, Cervantes has faced challenges, including legal issues related to a citation issued by the Sacramento Police Department in 2025. While the citation was related to a traffic incident, the District Attorney did not pursue charges after tests showed no presence of drugs or alcohol. Cervantes subsequently filed a claim against the police department, alleging retaliation due to her legislative actions and her identity as a Latina and LGBTQ individual. This incident highlights the complexities of public service and the scrutiny that elected officials may face.

Cervantes resides in Corona, California, with her wife, who works as a hospital technician. The couple welcomed triplets in 2019, further emphasizing Cervantes's connection to family-oriented policies and issues affecting parents and children in her district.

Overall, Sabrina Cervantes's career reflects a commitment to public service, advocacy for diverse communities, and a focus on the challenges facing her constituents in California. As she continues her work in the state legislature, her experiences and background inform her approach to governance and policy-making.