In a state known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, California may witness a historic moment in its 2026 election. Governor Gavin Newsom, due to term limits, will not be able to run for re-election, potentially paving the way for the state’s first woman and first lesbian governor.
Toni Atkins, the President pro tempore of the California Senate, has expressed her interest in the possibility of running for governor. As a Democrat from San Diego, Atkins has a track record of breaking barriers, having previously served as the Assembly Speaker, becoming the first lesbian to hold either of these leadership positions.
Reflecting on her interest in higher office, Atkins stated, “I sort of feel like I’m addicted to responsibility. I think experience counts and matters, and I believe I have experience to continue to contribute in some way.”
Atkins’ journey to politics began in a working-class family in rural Virginia, where her family home lacked running water. She moved to San Diego in 1985 to assist with childcare for her twin sister, who was serving in the U.S. Navy. Subsequently, Atkins worked for a women’s health clinic and later served on the San Diego City Council under the leadership of Christine Kehoe, the first openly LGBTQ+ person on the council. When Kehoe was elected to the California Assembly in 2000, Atkins succeeded her in the council seat. Atkins also served as San Diego’s acting mayor for a period.
In her political career, Atkins was elected to the Assembly in 2010 and assumed the role of Speaker in 2014. She transitioned to the state Senate in 2016, becoming its President pro tempore in 2018. During the absence of governors, she has acted as the acting governor and signed bills into law.
Atkins’ legislative accomplishments include enacting policies aimed at assisting people in poverty, such as implementing the Affordable Care Act and offering tax benefits to impoverished families. If she chooses to pursue the Democratic nomination for governor, she will face competition from a diverse pool of candidates, including Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, and former Controller Betty Yee, all of whom bring their unique perspectives and backgrounds to the race.
The potential candidacy of Toni Atkins reflects a broader trend in American politics, where LGBTQ+ individuals are achieving historic milestones in leadership positions across various states, further diversifying the political landscape.