In 1985, she graduated from the Peoples College of Law in Los Angeles, before beginning her involvement in the labor movement as an organizer for the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union.

Durazo appeared to have the upper hand, but the election was set aside by the international union, and the local was placed in a trusteeship led by Miguel Contreras.

The Los Angeles County Federation of Labor represents 600,000 workers, and it reached the climax of its influence under Durazo, its first women leader.

Durazo was appointed as the interim Executive Secretary-Treasurer following the resignation of Martin Ludlow in February 2006, and was voted as the permanent replacement on May 15, 2006 where she served until October 2014.

On April 6, 2017, Durazo announced that she intended to run for the 24th district of the California State Senate in 2018, when the incumbent, Kevin de León was termed out.

In her announcement, she stated that Donald Trump's victory in the 2016 presidential elections was her main motivation for running for public office.

[8][needs update] Since her election, Durazo has worked and passed bills related to education, housing, agriculture, and women's and disabilities rights.

Her significant impacts on the quality of life in this region demonstrate what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a commitment to community," said President William A. Covino.

The New York Times acknowledged that "as the executive secretary-treasurer of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, she presides over what is widely perceived as the most successful group of unions in the country."