Liz Valdez serves as Executive Assistant to Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, continuing a working relationship that began in 2012 when she joined then-Congresswoman Barbara Lee's team. Born in Los Angeles, Valdez has dedicated her career to public service, working in various roles across different levels of government including the California State Legislature, City and County of San Francisco and the U.S. House of Representatives.

Throughout her career, Valdez has been involved with several Democratic organizations and community groups, including the California Democratic Party, Los Angeles County Democratic Party, and Planned Parenthood Los Angeles. She began her professional journey in media and communications, working at KCAL-TV in Los Angeles and later at FleishmanHillard Public Relations before transitioning to government service with California State Senator Art Torres' office. Valdez has also contributed to various advocacy organizations focused on political participation and community empowerment, bringing her organizational skills and commitment to public service to each role.