Daniel Candia 

Congressional Intern, Presented by Gilbert and Jacki Cisneros Foundation 

Hometown: El Monte, California 

School: University of California, Los Angeles 

Majors: Political Science, Public Affairs 

Placement: The Office of Sen. Laphonza Butler 

Daniel was born in Bogota, Colombia and immigrated to the United States as a teenager. He lives in El Monte, California. Growing up in the San Gabriel Valley as a first-generation and low-income college student, he understands better than most, the structural inequities around communities like his own. 

Daniel pursued Political Science and Public Policy at Pasadena City College, and excelled in various extracurricular activities, including the establishment of his school’s mock trial team and earning state and national championships in competitive debate. Off campus, Daniel worked various jobs to support his family. He was involved with multiple non-profits focused on voting rights and public policy, as well as serving as a paralegal in family, immigration, and personal injury law. Daniel hopes to use his vast personal and professional experience to bridge gaps between his community and their elected officials, working in policy-making and education to tackle inequality through political participation. 

As a CHCI Intern, Daniel hopes to bolster his understanding of politics and the legislative process. He is looking towards connecting with people around the country to expand his policy knowledge and craft various solutions to structural quagmires across his community.