Nate Holden, Influential L.A. Politician, Dies at 95

Nate Holden, a prominent Los Angeles political figure who served as a California State Senator and Los Angeles City Councilmember, died at the age of 95. His public service career spanned more than 30 years, during which he played a key role in rebuilding the Crenshaw area after the 1992 Los Angeles riots and championed economic redevelopment and community rebuilding in South Los Angeles. Holden authored significant legislation, including the California Housing Financial Discrimination Act (Holden Act) to combat mortgage lending discrimination and helped establish Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday as a state holiday. Before his political career, he served in the Army and overcame racial barriers to pursue education and work in aerospace. He was also a longtime aide to Los Angeles County Supervisor Kenneth Hahn, who regarded him as a valued mentor and part of the family. Holden was known for his advocacy on consumer rights, civil rights, public safety, education, and community service, maintaining an open-door policy for his constituents throughout his career.