San Gabriel Valley native Congresswoman Hilda Solis, D-El Monte, was nomiated as labor secretary by President-elect Barack Obama, the Associated Press reports. Solis will be the nation’s 25th labor secretary, and will succeed a seat held by Elaine Chao. 

But what does this mean, if anything, for us in the San Gabriel Valley? And what does that mean for Solis’ open seat?

UPDATE: Two names being tossed around to fill Solis’ seat are Sen. Gloria Romero and Assemblyman Ed Hernandez.

AP source: Rep. Hilda Solis is Obama’s labor pick
By JESSE J. HOLLAND – 40 minutes ago

WASHINGTON (AP) — A labor official says Rep. Hilda Solis of California will be nominated as labor secretary by President-elect Barack Obama.

The Democratic congresswoman was just elected to her fifth term representing heavily Hispanic portions of eastern Los Angeles County and east L.A. She is the daughter of Mexican and Nicaraguan immigrants and has been the only member of Congress of Central American descent.

The official spoke on conditions of anonymity because an announcement has not been made yet. A call to Solis’s office was not immediately returned.

Solis, 51, has focused on immigration and environment issues while in the House.

An announcement is expected from the Obama transition team in the next few days.