Catalina Cruz practiced housing law prior to her election, indicating a professional background in housing affordability and tenant protections.

Catalina Cruz is a former undocumented immigrant (DREAMer) and has worked as an advocate for immigration rights, including serving as Counsel to the City Council’s Committee on Immigration and as director of the Governor's Exploited Workers Task Force. She represents a diverse district with large immigrant communities.

Catalina Cruz has a strong record of labor rights advocacy, having served as Director of the Governor’s Exploited Workers Task Force, which focused on protecting workers from exploitation. She also supports equal pay rights and fighting discrimination in the workplace.