SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — Dr. Shirley Weber made history last month, becoming California's first black Secretary of State.
It's a drive she shares with her daughter, Akilah, who is running for her mother's old seat in the state's 79th District.
"What I want people to know is that I'm from the 79th," says Dr. Akilah Weber. "I love this district."
Weber wears the hats of many roles. She is a mother, wife, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, professor, and La Mesa city leader. She takes pride in helping others.
"It's important for me, and also my kids, to see to "whom much is given, much is required," says Weber. "We must always give back, and we must always make sure you are leaving the place better than it was when you initially came."
Those same values were instilled in her as a child by her late father, Judge Daniel Weber, and her mother. Weber says she couldn't be more proud of her mom.
"Her father only had a 6th-grade education and couldn't vote, was not allowed to vote. So, to come and have his daughter be Secretary of State for California, who is in charge of voting, along with other things, is a huge accomplishment," she said.
Weber hopes to fill her mother's previous role as the 79th District's Assembly Member. The district includes Southeastern San Diego, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Chula Vista, Bonita, and National City.
As a physician, Weber believes the advocacy for public health is a component that has been missing in the seat.
"To be able to have those same principles and values she had continued but adding in some more is extremely important," says Weber. "If COVID has taught us anything, it has taught us it is extremely important for every community to be healthy."
Weber says whoever wins the seat has big shoes to fill.
"Whoever gets into that position needs to have the ability to advocate and the history or record of showing us that they can get things done," she added.
The primary election for the district will be held on April 6, ahead of the special election for the district set for June 8.
