Josh Newman

Why Thrive LA endorses Josh

Josh Newman is a Yale graduate, U.S. Army veteran, and former California State Senator who represented parts of Orange, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino Counties across two stints in Sacramento (2017-2018, 2021-2024). He founded ArmedForce2Workforce, a nonprofit helping veterans transition to civilian careers, and chaired the Senate Education Committee. He is now a candidate for California Superintendent of Public Instruction. The Superintendent of Public Instruction oversees the state's entire K-12 system: standards, accountability, school funding formulas, and the regulatory burden that either empowers or suffocates local schools. Newman brings real legislative experience in education policy and a demonstrated ability to work across party lines. His endorsements from the California Charter Schools Association alongside traditional labor organizations suggest a pragmatist, not an ideologue, on school choice and educational innovation. Newman's law enforcement support is notable for a statewide Democratic candidate. He carries endorsements from PORAC (Peace Officers Research Association of California), the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, the California Police Chiefs Association, the California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and the Association of Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS). He also holds the backing of California Professional Firefighters and multiple local firefighter unions. On campus safety and school security, these relationships matter. His legislative record includes authoring SB 552 on public safety standards and legislation targeting ghost guns. His veteran background and nonprofit work with ArmedForce2Workforce demonstrate a commitment to discipline, service, and accountability that translates well to overseeing a $130 billion public education system. Josh Newman is the experienced, coalition-building leader California's schools need.