Gov. Gavin Newsom has appointed a generation of California politicians to key offices, creating a network that could boost his presidential ambitions.
- Appointed Alex Padilla to the U.S. Senate, making him the first Latino senator from California.
- Appointed Shirley Weber as Secretary of State and Rob Bonta as Attorney General, both firsts for their communities. - Appointed Laphonza Butler as the first openly LGBTQ senator after Feinstein's death.
- Filled vacancies on county boards and appointed three state Supreme Court justices. These appointments diversify leadership and build a political network, but may also draw criticism over controversial picks like George Gascón.