The upcoming council election in Los Angeles' District 9 is poised to change the city's political landscape, as it reflects a significant demographic shift from a historically Black representation to a predominantly Latino one. Currently, District 9 is 78% Latino, with candidates Jose Ugarte and Estuardo Manzariegos leading the race. This election is noteworthy as it marks the first time in 63 years that the district will not have a Black council member, with Ugarte and Manzariegos representing the new Latino majority. Ugarte, an immigrant from Oaxaca, would become L.A.'s first Oaxacan council member if elected, while Manzariegos, hailing from Guatemala, would be the first Central American immigrant on the council. The candidates embody the diversity of the Latino community in South L.A., which has seen an influx of various Latino groups, including Indigenous people from Mexico and migrants from Venezuela and Colombia. The race is expected to be competitive, with Ugarte receiving support from established Black political networks and labor unions, while Manzariegos is endorsed by the local Democratic Socialists of America, indicating a shift in political dynamics within the city.