On Tuesday, January 21, news released that majority leader Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) had enough support from Democratic colleagues to become the new speaker of the California General Assembly. This means Atkins will succeed John A. Perez (D-Los Angeles) and increase the influence Southern California has in the California Legislature.
In a closed-door meeting of Assembly Democrats on Wednesday, it was decided that Atkins would indeed become the new speaker. She has unanimous support from the Democratic caucus. There is no evidence that Republican members participated in the process.
There will be a transition period before the matter goes to the Assembly floor for a final vote.
From Atkins' office:
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@AssemblyDems@ToniAtkinshttp://t.co/FQvN67lz8wJanuary 22, 2014