How this Sacramento state senator is making her mark in the Capitol | Opinion

State Senator Angelique Ashby of Sacramento stands out as a dynamic and influential leader in California’s Capitol. She became the first-ever Senate Majority Leader from the capital city — an achievement she earned in her very first term.

These milestones highlight her skills as a legislator, but her legacy began with the lasting impact she made during 12 years of service on the city council.

Running for re-election against nominal opposition, Ashby has earned the Bee’s endorsement for the District 8 Senate race not only because of her deep investment in Sacramento but also due to the tangible, positive change she’s already brought to the state Capitol.

At present, Ashby’s challenge is to broaden her political portfolio to statewide issues as she remains Sacramento’s top leader in the Legislature.

Can Ashby help create a healthy ecosystem around homelessness?

Ashby’s signature legislation this year on local matters seeks to get Sacramento’s fractured homelessness response to finally act as a single regional unit. Senate Bill 802 would require the city, county, and nearby suburbs to form a joint powers authority focused on housing and homelessness.

Instead of eight different entities and roughly 90 officials working in silos, the new body (an expansion of the existing Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency) would create a single, public-facing governance structure that coordinates decisions, funding, and accountability.

Ashby is interjecting herself into this local debate over homeless governance because local elected officials have agreed to nothing among themselves. “The state is now half a billion—with a ‘B’—into investment in Sacramento alone on housing and homelessness, and I don’t think we’re seeing the kind of results that we would expect to see with that level of investment.”

The bill has divided local elected officials. City councilmembers like Caity Maple, Lisa Kaplan and Mai Vang are strong supporters, but Mayor Kevin McCarty is opposed. So is the entire Sacramento County Board of Supervisors.

This is the most challenging test in Ashby’s career in politics. It’s going to take cooler heads in the region’s political sphere to prevail, and she will need to be the steady hand that guides the ship.

Elevating California’s political landscape

Ashby describes her leadership as that of an amplifier and convener — someone who champions the priorities of other regions, unites Sacramento’s diverse leaders around shared goals, and intentionally creates space for those who have not always felt represented to see themselves in the decision-making process.

“Los Angeles is so focused on the Olympics and the fire and recovery, and I want to be a part of it,” Ashby said. “I want to help them.”

The Capitol is often viewed as a political island within California — a place where politicians conduct business, nothing more. Ashby, however, brings a fresh perspective, demonstrating intention and dedication to every corner of the state.

As Ashby moves into her next term as a senator, the opportunity — and responsibility — to expand her focus beyond Sacramento’s hyperlocal issues becomes clear. Her district encompasses the heart of the region, and as majority leader, she is uniquely positioned to influence statewide policy.

While her roots in local issues are a strength, Ashby has proven she can be a leader for all of California.