Ruiz Invites Teen As His Guest to State of Union

THERMAL — Democratic Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. CA-36,  has chosen a 16-year-old junior from Desert Mirage Hgh School as his guest when Donald Trump gives his State of the Union address on Feb. 4.

Elizabeth Esteban, who attends classes at Desert Mirage High School in the Coachella Valley Unified Schooil District, is scheduled to depart Monday, Feb. 3 and be in the nation’s capital for three days.

Esteban said she received a call on Monday from Ruiz’s assistant telling her that she had been chosen to participate in a project. Turns out that so-called project was to fill a coveted seat in the House of Representatives’ chamber at the U.S. Capitol.

“It was really surprising,” Esteban told Uken Report. “I’m just really excited. It’s a great opportunity to learn about government and open doors (for others).”

Ruiz, she said, “has been an inspiration for me since middle school.”

Every year Dr. Ruiz brings to the Washington capitol a member of the community. This year, he chose student was chosen to be the guest of honor and have the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“I am very proud of Elizabeth and so excited to have her as my guest at the State of the Union,” Dr. Ruiz said. “She is an incredible student leader at Desert Mirage High School and an effective advocate for environmental justice for our communities. She is on the path to greatness.”

The State of the Union is the fulfilment of the US Constitution’s mandate that the president “shall from time to time give to Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.”

“We are very excited that our student is being afforded a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit Washington D.C. and attend a State of the Union Address with Congressman Dr. Ruiz,” Dr. Maria G. Gandera, the Coachella Valley Unified District Superintendent said. “Elizabeth is passionate about being an activist for issues she cares about and this trip will allow her to see the process in action. We look forward to seeing the amazing things Elizabeth will accomplish in the future.”

Esteban is the daughter of Guadalupe Esteban and Cecilia Hernandez.