Roderick Devon "Rod" Wright (born July 3, 1952)[1][2] is an American Democratic politician who previously represented California's 35th State Senate district until his resignation on September 22, 2014.

Prior to his initial entrance into elected office in 1996, Senator Wright was the District Director to Congresswoman Maxine Waters where he assisted citizens with federal matters such as Social Security, Medi-Care and veterans issues among others.

Wright has been recognized for his work in the areas of public safety, education, energy and utilities, small business, family law and consumer privacy.

[3] Entering the 2008 primary season, Wright had been out of politics for six years and was initially not considered a strong candidate against the front runner, former Lieutenant Governor and Congressman Mervyn Dymally.

[5] In September 2010, a Los Angeles County grand jury unsealed an eight-count felony indictment against Wright accusing him of filing a false declaration of candidacy, voter fraud and perjury beginning in 2007, when he changed his voter registration to run for the legislature.