Local Candidates to Address RNHA in Key April 22 Meeting

The Republican National Hispanic Assembly is set to host a crucial candidate forum on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, offering voters a firsthand look at three contenders vying for state and local office. Organizers are urging attendees to note a slight adjustment to the evening’s schedule: while doors will open at 6:30 PM, the main meeting and speaker introductions will now officially commence at 6:45 PM.

Leading the lineup is Pastor Art Hodges, who is running for California State Senate District 18. A fixture in the South Bay region, Hodges has served as the Senior Pastor of South Bay Pentecostal Church in Chula Vista since 1984. He gained national prominence for his staunch defense of religious liberties, notably taking the South Bay United Pentecostal Church v. Newsom case to the U.S. Supreme Court to challenge pandemic-era restrictions on indoor worship. He brings a diverse background as an educator, CEO, and respected faith leader to his senatorial campaign.

Also addressing the assembly is Adam Noakes, a candidate for Superior Court Judge. Noakes currently serves as an Administrative Law Judge for the California Department of Social Services. Prior to taking the bench, he built a successful private practice focused on civil litigation, business law, and real estate disputes. Holding a Master of Laws in Dispute Resolution from Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, Noakes campaigns on a vision of integrating dispute resolution, forgiveness, and restorative practices into the legal system to better address modern community and policing challenges.

Rounding out the evening’s speakers is Nicole D’Ambrogi, also running for Superior Court Judge. A U.S. Navy veteran and the founder of San Diego Legacy Law, PC, D’Ambrogi has established a distinguished legal career specializing in estate planning, probate law, and asset protection. She is a recognized champion for those who served, having helped found the Veterans Self-Help Legal Clinic and currently serving as the supervising attorney for the Veterans Legal Assistance Clinic at Thomas Jefferson School of Law. Her extensive pro bono work has earned her high-level accolades, including awards from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs and the California State Bar.

The upcoming meeting represents a vital opportunity for community members to engage directly with the individuals seeking to shape the future of California’s legislature and local judiciary. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, bring their questions, and prepare for an informative evening starting promptly at 6:45 PM.

Location: 4375 Bonita Rd, Bonita, CA 91902