Central Coast Vice Chair, Limón, to Become Next Senate Leader

SACRAMENTO — Senator Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara), Vice Chair of the California Legislative Central Coast Caucus, has been selected to serve as the 53rd President pro Tempore of the California State Senate. Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) and Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara), the co-chairs of the California Legislative Central Coast Caucus, issued the following statements:

“We are proud to congratulate one of our own, Senator Limón, for being elected by her peers as the next Senate President pro Tempore,” said Addis. “Senator Limón has served as a champion for Central Coast issues - fighting for environmental justice, women’s rights, and many other urgent issues in our region. As the first Latina and the second woman ever to hold this position, she continues her trend of making history and bringing others along with her. We look forward to working together to serve California.”

“Senator Limón’s selection as Senate President pro Tempore is a reflection of her exceptional leadership, deep integrity, and ability to build consensus on the most pressing issues facing Californians,” said Hart. “Her historic appointment is a proud moment for the Central Coast and a meaningful step forward for our state during this challenging time. We are confident she will continue to lead with thoughtfulness and strength, and elevate the voices of communities that have too often gone unheard.”

“I am grateful to have the support of my colleagues to be the next President pro Tempore of the California State Senate,” said Limón. “At this critical time in our state, I am committed to working with my colleagues and remain dedicated to defending our California values and uplifting all of our communities. As someone born and raised on the Central Coast, I am proud to represent our communities and look forward to continuing the work on behalf of all Californians in this new role.”

Senator Monique Limón is expected to assume the position in early 2026. Senator Mike McGuire (D-North Coast) has served as the current Senate President pro Tempore since February 2024.

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The California Legislative Central Coast Caucus is made up of ten elected officials representing Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. The caucus is led by Assemblymembers Dawn Addis and Gregg Hart as co-chairs and Senator Monique Limón as the vice chair. Members of the caucus include Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, Assemblymembers Steve Bennett, Jacqui Irwin, Gail Pellerin, and Senators Anna Caballero, John Laird, and Henry Stern.