Zartonkmedia

Adrin Nazarian, a longtime Democratic Party member, has won the Los Angeles City Council seat for District 2, taking over from fellow Armenian-American Paul Krekorian, who has served the district since 2009.

Nazarian’s victory continues the legacy of Armenian-American representation in Los Angeles, as he steps into a role previously held by Krekorian, the first Armenian-American elected to city office.

Nazarian’s journey to this position is rooted in resilience and a commitment to public service. Born in Iran in 1973, he and his family fled to the United States in 1981 due to political unrest and the Iran-Iraq War. After settling in the San Fernando Valley, he attended Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School, graduating in 1991, and earned a BA in Economics from UCLA in 1996.

“To me, LA is a place of second chances. This is where my family got its second chance. My parents had the opportunity to see their youngest son enter elected office, and I want to make sure Los Angeles remains a place of opportunity, where everyone seeking a better life can achieve it. We must ensure that those among us who are vulnerable don’t fall through the cracks and receive the support they need,” Adrin Nazarian told Zartonk Media.

“It is critical to add diverse minority voices to the chorus that is Los Angeles. I am proud of my Armenian heritage and equally proud to represent my Iranian background, bringing both into my role as the first Iranian-born LA Councilmember,” he added.

Nazarian’s career in public service began with internships and volunteer work for nonprofit organizations, where he focused on youth and civic engagement. His commitment led him to co-found Generation Next, a group dedicated to supporting disadvantaged youth. In 2006, Nazarian became Chief of Staff to then-Assemblymember Paul Krekorian, serving in that role until Krekorian’s election to the Los Angeles City Council in 2010. He continued as Krekorian’s Chief of Staff at City Hall until 2012, when he ran a successful campaign for the California State Assembly. Nazarian served as the Assemblymember for California’s 46th District until 2022, when he announced he would not seek reelection, instead planning to run for the District 2 council seat in 2024.

As an Assemblymember, Nazarian made a lasting impact by securing $23.25 million in state funding to establish a TUMO Center in the San Fernando Valley. This new facility brings TUMO’s innovative tech education to Los Angeles, providing thousands of young Angelenos with access to skills in technology, design, and media.

As District 2’s new councilmember, Nazarian takes up the mantle of representing the Armenian-American community and all residents of the district. His leadership will bring continuity and fresh perspectives, building upon the legacy established by Krekorian while advancing new initiatives for Los Angeles.