The state Senate’s Democratic Caucus announced today that state Sen. Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) will become Senate president pro tem in 2018, becoming the first woman to lead the chamber.
State Senate leader Kevin de León said in a statement, “Four years ago, our Caucus elected the first Latino leader in over a century to lead the California State Senate — and, next year, Senator Atkins will become our first ever woman to be elected Senate leader.
“Toni is a leader of great experience, achievement and integrity, and I have every confidence that she will lead America’s most accomplished legislative chamber to even greater heights.”
In a statement Sen. Atkins said, “Today, I am humbled by the trust my colleagues have placed in me, and I intend to earn that trust every day by working tirelessly and inclusively to keep California a place of opportunity for everyone.
“Kevin de León has led our Senate with strength, intelligence, integrity, and compassion – and continues to do so. Our collective policy achievements under his leadership have made our state a better place to live, work, raise a family, and attend school, regardless of race, religion, gender, or background.
“Given our national divisions, California’s example is more important than ever – and I look forward to working with our President pro Tem and all of our colleagues to ensure that the Senate continues to rise together to meet the challenges faced by the great people we represent.”
