California Leaders Are Stepping Up
Hello, friends,
I have watched multiple video accounts of the violent and senseless killings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minnesota – just two victims of the devastation inflicted on our communities by ICE. Words like “outraged,” “horrified,” or “terrified” fall short of what this moment demands. When the federal government asserts the power to use lethal force against people on our city streets, silence is also not an option. This is a moment that requires action.
California has a responsibility to respond — and our leaders are stepping up. In this issue of the newsletter, I share an update on the first month of the 2026 Legislative Session, along with legislation under consideration to limit federal access to California’s immigrant communities, protect advocates and bystanders, and strengthen accountability when federal agents act outside the law.
There are also important upcoming deadlines to recognize outstanding community members, participate in events, and learn more about how state government works — please read on. We want you involved.
For now, I encourage you to take care of yourselves and each other. In moments of darkness, community, compassion, and collective action are how we move forward.
Love,
Eloise
Change is in the Air in Sacramento
Since the Legislature reconvened in Sacramento on January 5, there has been a strong sense of momentum and purpose. The first order of business was the swearing-in of Monique Limón as California’s first Latina Senate President Pro Tempore — a historic milestone that filled many of us, especially Latina lawmakers, with deep gratitude and reflection. I was honored to speak in recognition of her leadership and what this moment means for our state.
One of government’s core responsibilities is to protect people, not inflict fear. California will not stand by while the federal government uses coercive tactics that undermine public trust in the legal process. That is why I introduced SB 873, Kick ICE Out of Courts - to protect the legal process for all in California by preventing indiscriminate arrests by ICE agents at scheduled court appearances. Learn more about what I hope to accomplish with SB 873 here.
In the wake of the killing of Alex Pretti — a 37-year-old intensive care nurse who was shot and killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis during a controversial enforcement action earlier this month — leaders in both the Assembly and Senate came together in solidarity with Minnesotans and with all who are demanding accountability. But we didn’t stop at statements. We passed SB 747, the No Kings Act — the first-in-the-nation bill to create a legal pathway for Californians to hold federal officers accountable for constitutional violations and excessive use of force. This bill closes a troubling gap that currently allows federal agents to operate under a different standard than state and local law enforcement. Here’s a video of my Floor Speech in support of this bill.
You also have a role to play. If you witness or experience misconduct, abuse of authority, or unlawful actions by federal agents, it is critical that these incidents are documented and reported. Reports may be made to trusted legal advocacy organizations, civil rights groups, or state oversight entities so patterns of abuse are not ignored, and accountability can follow.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta has established an online reporting portal for complaints involving federal agent misconduct. While this portal is not a substitute for contacting local law enforcement in an emergency, submitted complaints will be reviewed for potential state legal action.
Celebrating Progress in the District
Things in Sacramento are moving quickly, but my district staff are busier than ever — helping constituents navigate state agencies, staying closely connected to local issues, and creating new opportunities to engage with you and our communities.
On that note, if you haven’t RSVP’d for my Community Swearing-In and State of the District event yet, do it now! We’ll have great food, entertainment, and inspiring speakers — and we’ll also unveil my 2026 Legislative Package and celebrate all that we’ve accomplished together over these last nine years. I can’t wait to see you all on February 28!
And as we celebrate progress, I encourage you to help us recognize the people who make our communities stronger. If there is a woman in your life who has inspired you and made a meaningful difference, please consider nominating her as the 2026 Woman of the Year for the 29th Senate District, Nominations are open through February 11.
Finally, applications are open for the 2026 Young Senators program. Each year, we select high school students from across the district to participate in a one-of-a-kind learning and service experience. Participants develop essential leadership and civic skills while engaging directly with local, state, and tribal leaders who serve our communities every day. If you’re eager to explore public service, gain hands-on experience, and learn how state government works from the inside, I encourage you to apply here. For more information, contact Maria.Brunner@sen.ca.gov.
One more thing
Cash For College Financial Aid Workshop
If you need help filling out a financial aid form or want to learn more about how to apply for scholarships, you need to be at the Cash For College Financial Aid Workshop at CSU San Bernardino on February 20. There will be helpful representatives from a wide range of organizations on standby to support you and your loved ones with everything you need to check this important task off your list now!
