Darryn Harris

Darryn Harris is the Chief Government Affairs & Community Relations Officer at St. John's Community Health, a role he currently holds.25 He has a long and distinguished career in public service and community advocacy:

Professional Experience

Harris previously served as Chief of Staff for then-U.S. Representative Karen Bass, where he led a team working on a successful legislative agenda that impacted the lives of everyday Americans.1 In this role, he:

• Assisted over 100 residents return home after being stranded overseas during the pandemic
• Helped thousands of constituents with U.S. Postal Service issues
• Assisted small businesses in navigating the Paycheck Protection Program
• Worked with Black churches in South LA to increase civic engagement and voter turnout1

Prior to his role with Congresswoman Bass, Harris held several other positions:

• Assistant Director of Government and Community Relations at UCLA
• South Bay Field Deputy and District Director for then-Assemblymember Steven Bradford
• Field Deputy for the Office of then-Assembly Speaker Karen Bass1

Education and Affiliations

Harris holds degrees from:

• Loyola Marymount University
• UCLA1

He is also:

• A member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity
• A member of the New Leaders Council
• The founding president of the Black Los Angeles Young Democrats (BLAYD)1

Personal Background

Harris attended middle school in Carson and is a graduate of Verbum Dei Jesuit High School in Watts.1 He is committed to fighting for a sustainable future for all Californians and, if elected to public office, would be the first openly gay Black Senator in California state history.1

Current Role and Advocacy

As Chief Government Affairs & Community Relations Officer at St. John's Community Health, Harris is a strong advocate for community health and social justice.34 He has moderated panels on LGBTQ+ rights and emphasizes the importance of voting to make significant progress for the LGBTQ community.4