East SBV Times

Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares of Santa Clarita was sworn into the California State Senate, marking a significant day for the Senate Republican Caucus. The caucus welcomed three new members and one returning member, reflecting a historic shift as the state senate reaches 50% female representation for the first time. Notably, a majority of the Republican caucus is now composed of women, with three out of six being Latinas. Senator Valladares is recognized as the first Latina Republican to serve in both the Assembly and Senate.

Valladares, who has experience in business and non-profit operations, attended the ceremony with her husband Shane and daughter Charlotte. She expressed commitment to addressing Californians' concerns about the state's future. "Californians are increasingly concerned about the future of our state," said Sen. Valladares. "Today marks the start of a fight for the solutions our communities deserve and I’m both ready and eager to get to work for the people of my district and California."

This election year was notable as it was the first since 1980 that Republicans flipped a seat from an incumbent Democrat during a Presidential General Election. Alongside Valladares, Senators Megan Dahle from Bieber, Dr. Steven Choi from Irvine, and returning member Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh from Yucaipa were also sworn in at the State Capitol.

The nine-member Senate Republican Caucus includes returning members such as Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones from San Diego, along with Senators Marie Alvarado-Gil from Jackson, Shannon Grove from Bakersfield, Roger Niello from Fair Oaks, and Kelly Seyarto from Murrieta.