NewsSenator Patricia Bates Elected as New Senate Republican Leader
In an expected move, Senate Republicans have appointed a new leader, Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel). With her available term limit not coming up until 2022, Bates could serve as minority leader for an extended period of time – longer than many recent leaders. Current leader, Senator Jean Fuller, will be termed out in 2018, and the vote to switch leadership will give ample time to transition and prepare for the next election cycle. Bates is humbled to be voted as leader of the 13-member caucus, ready to continue to make it a priority to do what is best for the caucus and for constituents. She’s eager to work with legislators on both sides of the aisle to fix problems plaguing the state, and Senate pro Tem Kevin DeLeón has said he looks forward to having a productive and collaborative relationship with the new Republican leader.