Born and raised in East Salinas, Gilbert has experienced first-hand the challenges and hardships many families face in the region. As one of five children raised by a single, immigrant mother, Gilbert’s personal background drives him to make systemic changes to improve living conditions and increase the number of economic opportunities for working-class families. For that reason, he is proud and excited to return to the region after spending the last several years in Sacramento.
Gilbert has nearly 10 years of experience working in public policy and government. Most recently, he worked at the State Capitol as the Legislative Director for a Member of the State Assembly. Serving as one of the elected official’s top advisors on a broad range of legislative and political issues, Gilbert developed and advanced the representative's legislative packages and budgetary priorities.
Gilbert attended local public schools, including Hartnell College. He is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies and Political Science.
We respectfully acknowledge that the land on which Marina, California, is located is the traditional and unceded territory of the Ohlone/Costanoan-Esselen Nation. We honor and thank the past, present, and future generations of the Ohlone/Costanoan-Esselen people for their stewardship of this land. We express our deep appreciation for their enduring connection to this place and commit to respecting and valuing their cultural heritage. As we enjoy the natural beauty and resources of this region, we strive to be mindful stewards of the land and to support the ongoing efforts of Indigenous communities.
