FAITH, FREEDOM, FAMILY
A VISION FOR CALIFORNIA
Meet Charles Hughes
Charles Hughes is a proud husband of 35 years, father of five, and grandfather of six. A U.S. Navy veteran, retired law enforcement lieutenant, and small business owner, Charles is deeply rooted in the Antelope Valley community. From raising farm animals to supporting his grandchildren’s Scouting adventures and Parent Teacher Association events, Charles believes in hands-on involvement. As a current Antelope Valley Union High School District (AVUHSD) Board Trustee and former two term AVUHSD President, he is dedicated to serving local families. An active member of the Antelope Valley Boosters, Animal House Buyers Association, Antelope Valley Chambers of Commerce, and host of Coffee4Vets, Charles leads with heart, service, and a commitment to making a difference.
United States Navy Veteran
In 1987, following in the footsteps of his father, uncle, and grandfather, Charles enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 18. He served as a Damage Controlman, rising to the rank of Second-Class Petty Officer. During his deployments, Charles witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by service members and their families.
Today, Charles remains dedicated to supporting fellow veterans. Every Tuesday, he hosts local veterans at his restaurant, providing a space for camaraderie, support, and shared resources. His firsthand experience as a veteran drives his commitment to expanding access to veteran services, ensuring quality healthcare, and advocating for fair tax policies that honor those who have served.
Retired Law Enforcement Lieutenant & Public Safety Advocate
Following his military service, Charles embarked on a 26-year career with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), where he rose through the ranks to Lieutenant, earning the top score on the statewide lieutenant’s exam.
Throughout his career, Charles prioritized officer and community safety, serving as Chapter Vice President and later Chapter President of the California Correctional Peace Officers Association (CCPOA) at California State Prison – Los Angeles County (LAC) for over a decade. His leadership extended to the state level, where he served as CCPOA Statewide Supervisory Vice President.
Even in retirement, Charles continues to support public safety efforts. He hosts Coffee with a Deputy at his restaurant, bringing together community members and law enforcement officers to strengthen relationships and discuss public safety concerns. Additionally, through his involvement with the Antelope Valley Boosters, an organization of business and community leaders, he has helped raise over $2 million for essential equipment, training, and resources for local Sheriff and Police Departments.
Education & Commitment to Students
Charles understands the importance of a strong education system that prepares students for college, careers, and civic leadership. While balancing his career and family responsibilities, he earned an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from Antelope Valley College and later a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Chapman University.
In 2022, Charles was elected President of the Antelope Valley Union High School District Board of Trustees, where he has focused on: campus safety, expanding vocational and job training programs, supporting teachers and staff, increasing parental involvement, and strengthening Future Farmers of America (FFA) programs.
Charles is dedicated to expanding educational opportunities and ensuring that students graduate with the skills they need to succeed in today’s economy.
Economic Growth & Small Business Advocacy
As a small business owner, Charles understands the challenges that local businesses face, from rising costs to regulatory burdens. He is committed to supporting policies that create jobs and boost economic development, reducing barriers for small businesses, and advocating for responsible tax policies that encourage entrepreneurship. Charles believes that economic opportunity should be available to all, and he will work to ensure businesses, workers, and families have the resources they need to prosper.
Dedicated Community Leader
Charles is deeply involved in his community and supports various local organizations. He is a member of the Antelope Valley Animal House Buyers Association and the Antelope Valley Chamber of Commerce, and he actively volunteers with local livestock and 4-H programs. Additionally, Charles supports youth development organizations on behalf of his grandchildren, volunteering with Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Parent-Teacher Associations.
"Public service isn’t about titles or recognition — it’s about rolling up your sleeves, doing the hard work, and being there when your community needs you most. I’m proud to have served my country, raised a family here, and worked alongside so many dedicated people to make my community stronger, safer, and more connected. My goal is to continue doing exactly that."
— Charles Hughes
Family Life
Charles and his wife, Angie, have been married for 34 years. Together, they raised five children, all graduates of Quartz Hill High School. They have instilled the values of education, hard work, and service in their children, each of whom has pursued higher education, military service, or both: Christopher, a California Highway Patrolman, holds a bachelor’s degree in business; Lauren, a City Councilwoman and former U.S. Army Officer, is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and Southwestern Law School; Ashley, a U.S. Army Reserve Officer and Nurse Practitioner, holds a master’s degree from the University of Hawai’i; Kristen, a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, holds a master’s degree from Vanderbilt University; and Kelly, a senior at Boise State University, plans to grow and raise a beautiful family of her own.
Charles and Angie have also welcomed one daughter-in-law, three sons-in-law, and six grandchildren into their growing family.
