Democrats endorse Cristina Garcia, pass on Tony Mendoza

Cristina Garcia Facebook photo

SAN DIEGO -- The California Democratic Party this weekend voted to endorse Assemblymember Cristina Garcia in her re-election bid, despite her being under investigation for sexual misconduct. 

Garcia went on voluntary leave Feb. 9 after a man alleged that Garcia groped him after a 2014 softball game. 

About a week later, four former members of Garcia's staff accused the lawmaker of a hostile work environment, including drinking during work hours and discussions about Garcia's sex life. 

Democrats, however, overwhelmingly opted against an endorsement for Tony Mendoza, who resigned from the state Senate last week.

Investigators concluded last week that Mendoza "more likely than not" subjected multiple female staff members to unwanted sexual advances. 

Garcia and Mendoza both represent Downey in the California legislature.