Laura Friedman

Laura Friedman (born December 3, 1966) is an American politician serving as the United States representative for California's 30th congressional district since 2025. A Democrat, she previously held local and state offices, including membership on the Glendale City Council from 2011 to 2016—where she served as mayor in 2014—and representation of California's 43rd Assembly district from 2017 to 2024. Prior to entering politics, Friedman worked as a film producer after earning a B.A. in political science from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1989. In the California State Assembly, Friedman advanced policies aimed at increasing affordable housing production, combating climate change through environmental regulations, and enhancing public transit investments, including measures to eliminate minimum parking requirements near mass transit stations. Her legislative efforts emphasized infrastructure funding for her district and protections for civil rights, reflecting a focus on urban development challenges in the Los Angeles region. Friedman, who is Jewish, has drawn scrutiny over her positions on U.S. foreign policy toward Israel, facing accusations of insufficient support from some pro-Israel advocates and charges of enabling conflict from pro-Palestinian groups. Elected to Congress in 2024 to succeed Adam Schiff in a competitive primary, she continues to represent a district encompassing parts of Los Angeles County, including Glendale, where she resides with her family.