Statement from Antonio Villaraigosa Regarding Eleni Kounalakis’ Decision to Leave Race

Press Release
Written By Michelle Jeung

LOS ANGELES — Antonio Villaraigosa, former Speaker of the California Assembly and 41st Mayor of Los Angeles, released the following regarding Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis' decision to drop out of the 2026 California gubernatorial election and run for California State Treasurer.

"As the first female Lieutenant Governor of California, Eleni Kounalakis has been a strong leader for California. She is a committed public servant, and I wish her well in her race to become California's State Treasurer.

California is the state where anything is possible with hard work and determination. Our future depends on our willingness to face our biggest challenges. We need a problem solver to lead our state. That's why I'm running for Governor."

Michelle Jeung
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