James Gallagher is closing out over a decade in the California Assembly as he prepares to be sworn into Congress.
Gallagher won the June 2 special election to finish the late Doug LaMalfa’s term in the U.S. House of Representatives.
In Sacramento, the Sutter County Republican has spent 12 years in a state Legislature controlled by Democrats.
In goodbye remarks Monday at the state Capitol, Gallagher said that experience has shaped how he views political power.
“When I am sworn in this week, it will be the first time ever that I’ve been in the majority,” he said, referring to the Republican-controlled House.
He added: “I think that’s been really good for me, actually. I think it’s really honed my skills. It’s helped me to understand how important it is that minority voices are heard.”
Gallagher also urged lawmakers not to give up authority to governors and other executive leaders, lamenting that the legislative branch of government has been weakened across the country.
“Always remember, this institution is the most important,” he said. “The legislative branch is the most important branch. Fight for it. Defend it. Use your power.”
Gallagher will serve the remaining seven months of LaMalfa’s term in California’s 1st Congressional District while campaigning for a full term in the November general election against Democratic state Sen. Mike McGuire.
