Carol Pefley

I was born on an American military base in Seoul, South Korea, to an American father and Korean mother. We came to the United States when I was a young child. My family, like so many others, worked hard but struggled financially. College wasn’t an option early on, so I entered the workforce, determined to make my own path. In my 30s, I returned to school, put myself through college, and earned a degree in broadcast journalism—a milestone that opened the door to a career in television news and radio broadcasting for many years.

In 2009, I launched my own real estate company in Silicon Valley. Through dedication and perseverance, I’ve grown that business into a successful brokerage, with approximately 45 agents working under my license. I am a mother to two wonderful children and, as a single parent, have experienced firsthand the challenges of raising a family in California’s increasingly unaffordable economy.

I entered public life because I believe California is worth fighting for. Our state has boundless potential, but that promise is slipping away for too many families. For over a decade, one-party rule in Sacramento has led to rising costs, excessive regulations, failing schools, and an exodus of working families who simply can’t afford to stay. I’ve watched friends and neighbors leave the state they love—not because they want to, but because they have no choice.

I’m running for State Assembly to help restore balance and bring common sense back to California’s government. I believe in a future where families can thrive, small businesses can succeed, and opportunity is within reach for all. This is still a great state—and with the right leadership, we can make it more affordable, more accountable, and more hopeful for generations to come.