President of the East Los Angeles Residents Association, the main supporter behind East LA's cityhood effort; East LA-born, he works as Deputy District Director for Congresswoman Grace Napolitano
Ben Cardenas on KCRW
More from KCRW
Injured wild animals with no habitat emerge from burn areas
WildfiresWeeks after the Eaton Fire in Altadena, injured wildlife is showing up around the disaster area. The singed animals include everything from birds to bobcats.
Fragile Israel-Hamas ceasefire, tariffs’ impact on CA wine
NewsPresident Trump’s ambitious goal to deport 10 million immigrants faces legal challenges and pushback. What do the on-the-ground realities look like?
1 in 4 LA fast food workers were paid below minimum wage in 2024. Why?
Food & DrinkFast food workers lose about 16% of their pay every year, a new Northwestern University study found.
Local Ukrainians voice fear, dismay as Trump weakens support
PoliticsAt a rally in Beverly Hills, local Ukrainians and their supporters gathered to voice opposition to President Trump’s politics regarding Russia and Ukraine.
Impact of gender-affirming care, Woolsey Fire survivor’s rebuilding success
NewsPresident Trump’s executive order seeks to cut federal funding for gender transition medical procedures. KCRW hears from a mom of a 17-year-old who’s been transitioning since age 4.
Trump’s freeze on foreign aid, meaning of home from Angeleno who lost it
NewsWith President Trump back in the White House, Ukraine finds its once top ally has now become a wild card in its three-year war with Russia.
Fentanyl grips MacArthur Park as officials talk cleanup
LawLocals are frustrated as scenes of open drug use and misery play out day and night in a central LA park. Officials pledge outreach and cleanup.
Oscar-nominated ‘Instruments of a Beating Heart,’ Valentine’s Day
NewsHeavy rains could bring flash flooding and debris flows, especially in burn scar areas. Officials advise staying off the roads Thursday during the peak of the storm.
Trump sours on Zelensky amid US talks with Russia
PoliticsDonald Trump points fingers at Volodymyr Zelensky about the war with Russia. Should the president take accountability for the DOJ? Plus, how valuable are political rallies?