Senate District 20 Staff
District representatives are here to assist Senate District 20 residents with state agencies and to help locate federal or local resources. View staff service areas below and email your representative, or call the Van Nuys office at 818-901-5588 to speak with someone directly.
District Representatives
Brandon Gonzalez he/him/el
District Director
Brandon's commitment to public service is driven by the issues he observed in the Van Nuys, North Hollywood, and Panorama City neighborhoods where he grew up. After graduating from University of California, San Diego, with a degree in Aerospace Engineering, he decided to bring his unique perspective to district work. Brandon’s lived experiences help him to properly identify constituents' needs and organize community-focused events.
Ryan Ahari he/him/el
District Deputy
Ryan has more than 10 years of experience in public service and legislative advocacy. He formerly served as Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman’s Senior Field Deputy for Sherman Oaks and Van Nuys including State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian’s Field Representative, in which he improved the quality of life for thousands of Angelenos. He also represented our nation as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Armenia by teaching English language and professional skills. He is a proud Bruin and earned his B.A. in Political Science at UCLA.
Julia Hernandez she/her
District Representative for Lake View Terrace, Panorama City, Pacoima, San Fernando, Van Nuys
While completing a dual degree from Occidental College in Politics and American Studies, Julia had the opportunity to work for the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office of Community Engagement, working primarily with Area Representatives in the San Fernando Valley. Both her studies in Politics and her experience in constituent services in the Valley ignited a passion for public service. Julia is proud to represent the San Fernando Valley, and is dedicated to serving this wonderful and diverse community.
Andrés Garcia he/him/his
District Representative for Mission Hills, Kagel Canyon, Sunland/Tujunga, Burbank, and North Hollywood NE
A graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Andrés has an impressive background in government. He previously worked for the Democratic Governors Association in Washington D.C. and the Office of U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren. Andrés is enthusiastic about returning to his home state of California to serve the communities where he grew up.
Star Resendez they/she/ella
District Representative for Lake Balboa, Sylmar, Sun Valley, North Hills East
With a Master of Social Work from California State University, Northridge, Star brings extensive experience in community service, development, and advocacy, combined with a strong focus on equity, access, and inclusion. Star is dedicated to strengthening our communities, creating meaningful opportunities, and making a lasting impact for all constituents of SD 20.
Olivia Hokr she/her/hers
District Representative for Canoga Park, Reseda, Winnetka, Shadow Hills and North Hills West
As a lifelong resident of the San Fernando Valley, Olivia is passionate about improving the lives of all who live in the Valley’s diverse and growing communities. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, Davis, and previously served in California State Senator Henry Stern’s district office. She is proud to now serve her home district, SD 20, and help meet the needs of our constituents.
Event Scheduling Requests
Capitol Events
Cindy Gonzalez she/her/hers
Scheduler
District Events
Michelle Rios she/her/hers
Executive Assistant
Press & Communications
Teodora E. Reyes she/her/they
Communications Director
