Retired U.S. Army Colonel and small businessman Tom Umberg was sworn into office today as State Senator from the 34th Senate District. The Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court, Tani Cantil-Sakauye, administered the oath of office.
“It is truly an honor and privilege to serve the residents of the 34th Senate District. The issues we face in 2019 and beyond require all of us to work with a common purpose toward a stronger future for all Californians. While our state is currently enjoying a strong economy and has done well at building up the Rainy Day Fund, it is important that we continue to invest in quality healthcare, education and affordable housing to protect and improve the quality of life for all Californians.
“As State Senator, I will always fight to deliver a fair share of resources to our region so that everyone has a chance to own a home, live in a safe neighborhood, have access to quality healthcare and send their children to the best schools possible. I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues in both houses to continue strengthening our great state and delivering for all Californians.”
The Legislature will reconvene for the 2019-20 legislative session on Monday, January 7, 2019. Umberg, a Democrat, after days of gaining in ballot count updates, took a narrow lead and finally unseated state Sen. Janet Nguyen (R-Garden Grove) in the 34th Senate District.
Umberg now adds to the Democrats’ supermajorities they gained in the state Legislature in November’s election.
With a two-thirds supermajority, the party can raise taxes, override vetoes, and suspend legislative rules without needing Republican votes.
The 34th District includes western Long Beach, as well as the entire cities of Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Fountain Valley, Westminster, Seal Beach, Los Alamitos.
The district also includes the northern half of Huntington Beach, a southern portion of Anaheim, a small slice of the city of Orange, and the entire unincorporated communities of Rossmoor and Midway City.