Capitol Advisors has compiled education-focused biographies of the new lawmakers in Sacramento.
You can read about them here.
Key Takeaways About the New Legislature
New Members in Both Houses
- There are 37 new lawmakers, though two vacancies remain unfilled, bringing the active new count to 35.
- Of the new Senators, eight previously served in the Assembly, meaning around 25% of the new class are brand-new to the Legislature.
Breakdown by Chamber
- Assembly: 23 new members, 1 vacancy
- Senate: 12 new members, 1 vacancy
- Governor Newsom is expected to call special elections for the two vacant seats in 2025.
Partisan Control Remains Steady
Despite a few Republican gains, the overall partisan balance remains unchanged:
| Chamber | Democrats | Republicans | Vacant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assembly | 60 | 19 | 1 |
| Senate | 30 | 9 | 1 |
- Republicans flipped a few seats—the first such gains during a Presidential election year since 1980.
- Both vacant seats are expected to remain Republican-held.
- With a two-thirds majority, Democrats retain veto-override power in both houses.
Education Experience in the Legislature
Twelve incoming lawmakers have prior experience in education, either working in schools or serving on school boards. That could bring valuable perspective to education policy discussions.
Historic Gender Representation
The 2024 election resulted in significant gains for women in the Legislature:
- 21 women in the State Senate
- 59 women total across both chambers, representing 49% of the Legislature
With two vacant seats still to be filled, that number could increase further.
What’s Next for Committees?
New committee chairs and assignments are still pending but expected soon. Here’s what we know so far:
- Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) is expected to remain chair of the Assembly Education Committee.
- The Senate Education Committee will get a new chair after Senator Newman’s defeat.
- Likely candidates: Chris Cabaldon (D-West Sacramento) and Sasha Renee Perez (D-Los Angeles).
Looking Ahead
The Legislature reconvenes in early January, and lawmakers have until late February to introduce new legislation. Stay tuned for updates as committee assignments are finalized.
0 Comments