Ian Calderon

Early life and family

Ian Calderon was born on October 19, 1985. He is the son of former Assemblymember and State Senator Charles Calderon. His stepmother, Lisa Calderon, was also a member of the California State Assembly.

Calderon grew up in a family deeply involved in California politics, which helped form his interest in public service.

Education and early career

Calderon earned a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Long Beach.

Before holding elective office, he worked as a field representative for state legislators, helping constituents navigate state and local government services.

Legislative career

In 2012, Calderon was first elected to the California State Assembly representing the 57th District in Los Angeles County, making him the first millennial elected to the California Legislature. He was re-elected in subsequent cycles (2014, 2016, 2018).

In March 2016, Calderon was chosen by his peers to become Majority Leader of the Assembly, becoming the youngest person in state history at that time to hold that position. He remained Majority Leader until the end of his Assembly tenure in 2020.

While in leadership, Calderon was associated with a number of legislative initiatives. Calderon played a role in advancing California's film and entertainment tax credit regime, including reforms to enhance diversity and transparency in film production.

He introduced AB 2658 in 2018, which created the California Blockchain Working Group to deliberate on blockchain, cryptocurrency, and related technology policy.

Calderon also supported increases in the state minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2022, and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition, he was active in legislative caucuses and committees. During his Assembly tenure, he served as Chair of the Select Committee on Youth and California's Future, Co-Chair of the Legislative Technology & Innovation Caucus, and Co-Chair of the Legislative Millennial Caucus.

Post-legislative career and gubernatorial candidacy

In November 2019, Calderon announced he would not seek re-election in 2020 in order to focus more on spending time with his family. He served out his term through late 2020.

His stepmother, Lisa Calderon, ran for and won his former Assembly seat in November 2020.

After leaving office, Calderon founded a consulting and lobbying firm called Majority Advisors. The firm's name is a reference to is his tenure as Majority Leader.

In September 2025, Calderon officially announced his candidacy for the 2026 California gubernatorial election. His campaign highlights issues such as housing affordability, high cost of living, childcare, and integrating technological innovation into state policy (including support for holding bitcoin on the state’s balance sheet).

Electoral history

2014 California State Assembly

2016 California State Assembly

2018 California State Assembly

Recognition

Calderon was named Legislator of the Year by TechNet, received the Internet Champion Award from the Internet Association, and was named TechAmerica’s California Tech Champion in 2014, among other industry honors.

Calderon has also received various arts-related accolades. For example, the California Association of Museums awarded him its 2015 President’s Award, and he was named a Legislative Arts Champion by Californians for the Arts.

Personal life

Calderon married Elise Calderon in 2015. They have four children. He resides in Orange County, California.

References

References

1. "Ian C. Calderon".
2. Wiley, Hannah. (2019-11-26). "California Democratic leader says he will not seek re-election in 2020".
3. (September 23, 2025). "Former California Assembly leader Ian Calderon jumps into governor's race". [[The Sacramento Bee]].
4. The Associated Press. (September 23, 2025). "Former California lawmaker, a millennial, joins the governor’s race".
5. (April 29, 2012). "Assemblyman Calderon's son Ian aims to uphold political dynasty".
6. (October 31, 2023). "CA Assemb. Ian Calderon".
7. (September 4, 2025). "Former State Assemblymember Ian Calderon".
8. (September 24, 2025). "Millennial Democrat Ian Calderon announces bid for California governor".
9. "Official Website".
10. "Ian Calderon - Majority Advisors".
11. Nixon, Nicole. (September 23, 2025). "Former California Assembly leader Ian Calderon jumps into governor’s race".
12. Weber, Lindsay. (September 27, 2025). "Former California Assemblymember Ian Calderon running for governor".
13. Kuang, Jeanne. (September 23, 2025). "Millennial Democrat Ian Calderon announces bid for California governor".