(Sacramento) - Assemblymember Swanson expressed his profound joy at the election of Majority Leader Karen Bass as the next speaker of the California State Assembly.

“This is truly an historic day, and the beginning of a wonderful era for California. I am very proud to have supported Majority Leader Bass from the beginning of her campaign for the Speakership,” Assemblymember Swanson stated.

While no exact date has been set for Speaker-Elect Bass’ official assumption of the post, Assemblymember Swanson said he expects a smooth and orderly transition, particularly given Speaker-Elect Bass’ current position as Majority Leader and her strong working relationship with other leaders in the Assembly. Speaker-Elect Bass is the first African-American woman to assume the top position of either legislative branch in California state history.

Assemblymember Swanson also spoke on Speaker-Elect Bass’ character, “I have had the honor to participate in public service for 35 years. I can say without fear of contradiction that Karen Bass is one of the noblest among us, and sets the standard for integrity and professionalism. Her commitment to the children of our state, and to improving the quality of life for all of California’s citizens, is a matter of record.”

With California’s looming fiscal crisis, Speaker-Elect Bass will be one of the ‘big five’ who will share responsibility for crafting a budget that can address the State’s financial issues while attracting the necessary 2/3 support in the Legislature. “I have confidence that Speaker-elect Bass will be able to lead us through this historic budget crisis, returning our state to prosperity and fostering a community that makes education a real priority. I feel honored to serve with her, and I believe that we in the Legislature, and indeed the State of California, will benefit from her leadership, her passion, and her vision.”

Assemblymember Swanson also expressed his gratitude for outgoing Speaker Fabian Núñez, “It’s been a tremendous pleasure to work under Speaker Núñez. I appreciated his commitment to the people of California, his inspiring leadership, and for contributing to a smooth and unifying transition of the Speakership.”