Long Beach Elects First Latino Mayor, Robert Garcia; Takes Office in July

In a slew of startling firsts Robert Garcia was elected by the City of Long Beach to be its first Latino and openly gay mayor. Garcia will be the youngest mayor ever to serve Long Beach in its 112-year history.

Garcia began his political career in 2009 when he was elected to the Long Beach City Council. Garcia quickly got to work forming the Latin-American Parade and Festival, which now has turned into an annual event.

In July of 2013 former mayor Bob Foster announced that he would not be seeking reelection. The stage was set for the young and upcoming Garcia to make a run for mayor.

In April of 2014 Garcia placed first in a pool of 10 candidates, gathering 25 percent of the total votes. Garcia entered into a run-off with real estate investor Damon Dunn.

Late into Tuesday night the vote was still too close to call. Both Dunn and Garcia were straddling a 50/50 vote spilt. It wouldn't be until early Wednesday morning that Garcia would learn he had won the election reeling in 52 percent of the votes.

Garcia told Los Angeles Times reporters, "I'm incredibly grateful and honored to have been elected. While I understand the historical implications of the win, I'm looking forward to being mayor for all of Long Beach."

Although the race for Long Beach City mayor was decided by a slim margin, the ramifications of Garcia's victory put Long Beach on the forefront of the changing political times.

Even though California is one of the most liberal states in the country, it still is somewhat shocking to see the level acceptance that an openly gay candidate received. This undoubtedly will give Long Beach the reputation as being a city where all humans, no matter their race, sexuality or age, will be treated with dignity and respect.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has been one of Garcia's supporters from the very beginning. The two mayors have agreed to work together on reshaping the sometimes-rocky relations the two cities have had in the past.

Garcia will officially take office in July as the citizens of Long Beach eagerly await what their new leader.