The Roosevelt Institution

CAL Sen Leadership

Memo: California State Senate Organization – Leadership
Date: 09/04/07
From: Kevin J. Powers, Legislative Director – Western Region

Introduction

The California State Senate is the “upper house” of the California State Legislature. The Senate is made up of 40 members, and is currently comprised of 25 Democrats and 15 Republicans. Senators can serve up to two four-year terms. Legislators in California work on a full-time basis. Each Senator represents about 846,791 Californians.

Organization

The California State Senate does the majority of its work in committee, and all legislation is first seen in committee before moving to the floor of the legislature. This memorandum will identify the leadership of both respective political parties in the Senate.

Leadership

In the California State Senate, the members of each party’s “Leadership” are the real power brokers. They help to craft each new legislative agenda, and they represent the broader strokes of the policy process. Their direction gives Roosevelt Fellow themes to work with, and helps to gauge where potential success might be found.

Majority: Democrats (25 Senators)
Minority: Republicans (15 Senators)

President Pro Tempore: Sen. Don Perata
Asst. President Pro Tempore: Vacant

Senate Rules Committee