Overview

• Senator Monique Limón was elected by Democratic colleagues as the next Senate president pro tem, and she will take office in early 2026.
• She will be the first woman of color to hold the position in California history.
• Outgoing President Pro Tem Mike McGuire praised her wildfire recovery work, her efforts on college affordability and her leadership experience in a cordial transition.
• Limón is the author of progressive legislation on pay transparency, consumer debt protections and stronger safety measures for offshore pipelines.
• Senate Majority Leader Lena Gonzalez, who had been viewed as a contender for the top post, was notably absent from the internal vote.