With the backing of organized labor he won election to the City Council in May 2003 in a runoff election over Deron Williams by a 56-44 ratio. He was also endorsed by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce "and other business groups."Matea Gold and Jessica Garrison, "New Boldness Expected on Council," Los Angeles Times, May 22, 2003, page B-1 He was sworn in for a term beginning July 1 by his mother, Anne, and Ethel Bradley, the widow of former Mayor Tom Bradley, in a public ceremony dedicated to Willis Ludlow.Daren Briscoe, "New Officials Are Sworn In at City Events," Los Angeles Times, June 29, 2003
