San Diego Assemblymember Chris Ward has been elected as the new California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus Chair for the upcoming 2025-2026 legislative sessions, while Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley) will serve as Vice Chair.
Ward, a democrat who represents San Diego’s 78th Assembly District which includes the LGBTQ+ cultural district of Hillcrest, has been a key player in efforts to address housing, clean energy, homelessness and civil rights issues in California.
Ward expressed his dedication to the caucus, focusing on expanding its impact and ensuring California remains a refuge for LGBTQ+ people.
“At a time when there is a national wave of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and attacks, I am committed to leading our nation as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ community members seeking equality, care and refuge from harm,” Ward said.
Outgoing Chair Senator Susan Eggman (D-Stockton) expressed pride in the caucus’s accomplishments during her tenure.
“As chair of the largest LGBTQ caucus in the nation, I came into my term with high expectations for myself and my colleagues and I finish my term with tremendous gratitude for all that we have achieved,” Eggman said. “These past two years have been incredibly trying times for the broad LGBTQ+ community. We have not only been able to hold the line for our community, but advanced nation leading protections and investments.”
Eggman highlighted the significant progress made including securing over $171 million in state funds for LGBTQ+ organizations and projects. Eggman also emphasized the importance of the leadership that will follow, praising Ward and Menjivar as capable and committed advocates for the community.
The leadership transition is set to take place on Dec. 2.