Eric Bauman, a prominent and influential figure in California’s Democratic political landscape, passed away on Monday at the age of 66.
His family announced that he died at UCLA West Valley Medical Center following a long illness.
Bauman, born in the Bronx to an Army doctor and a registered nurse, moved to Hollywood just before his 18th birthday after attending military school.
In his early career, he became a nurse and met his husband at a hospital cafeteria during an overnight shift in the 1980s.
Inspired in part by the AIDS crisis, he was drawn into political activism, leading him to become the president of the Stonewall Democratic Club Los Angeles in 1994.
As chairman of the Los Angeles County Democratic Party from 2000 to 2017, Bauman transformed the organization into a powerful political force, increasing the number of Democrats elected at various levels of government.
In his own words, he elevated the party from a $50,000-a-year operation to one generating $1.5 million annually, a testament to his effective leadership and vision.
Bauman was known for his distinct Bronx demeanor, often likened to characters played by Ray Liotta, with his signature gold signet ring on his pinkie which he twisted under pressure.
A political operative with a reputation for being straightforward, he was affectionately referred to as the “Godfather of Democratic politics” by some within the party.
In 2017, Bauman was elected as the first openly gay and first Jewish chair of the California Democratic Party after a contentious election that underscored the existing divisions within the party.
Though he refrained from prominently declaring his sexuality, he emphasized the importance of recognizing his partner publicly, making it an integral part of his identity.
His tenure peaked during the 2018 midterm elections, marked by a significant victory for California Democrats who managed to flip seven seats in the U.S. House and regained a veto-proof supermajority in the state Legislature.
Bauman advocated for changes in California’s electoral system, particularly opposing the voter-approved “jungle primary” system, arguing that it compromised Democrats’ ability to nominate candidates effectively.
Later in 2018, allegations arose against Bauman regarding crude sexual comments and inappropriate physical behavior, triggering investigations by the state Democratic Party and leading to his resignation.
In the wake of these allegations, the party concluded a lawsuit involving three of his accusers, resulting in settlements costing more than $380,000, impacting his legacy and role within California politics significantly.
After stepping down, Bauman receded from public life but made a comeback by hosting a radio show, “The UnCommon Sense Democrat,” which aired on KCAA-AM 1050 in the Inland Empire.
Bauman’s strategic initiatives, like the “red zone program,” aimed at fortifying Democratic presence in traditionally Republican areas of Los Angeles County by providing resources to candidates in those districts.
Former state lawmaker Miguel Santiago recalled Bauman’s enthusiasm for political victories, noting that he pursued every available seat, regardless of its perceived viability.
Additionally, Bauman emphasized collaboration with organized labor, bolstering voter registration efforts, and enhancing turnout for elections.
State Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez fondly remembered how Bauman personally reached out to newly registered voters, showing them that their participation was valued and important.
His career included significant roles working for Governor Gray Davis, Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi, and various Assembly speakers, further showcasing his commitment to public service and Democratic values.
Bauman is survived by his husband of 42 years, Michael Andraychak, as well as his father and sister, Richard and Roya Bauman.
image source from：latimes
