Senator Cathleen Galgianai

Government

Senator “Cathleen” Galgiani is a life-long San Joaquin County resident. She began her political career very young as an intern, and has dedicated most of her professional life to the people of California and San Joaquin County. After working as a local physical therapist and, prior to being elected to office, she became a full-time staff member for then-Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi. She also held positions with Assemblyman and Senator Patrick Johnson, and was Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman Barbara Matthews. Cathleen was also a valued staff member of California First Lady Sharon Davis. Cathleen served in the State Assembly for six years prior to being elected to the California State Senate in 2012, and re-elected in 2016. She is one of only 13 female senators in the state. Senator Galgiani has been recognized as a leader in growing California’s world-renown agricultural economy. She is an advocate for her district that encompasses San Joaquin County. As Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, she never forgets the importance of agriculture in the greater Manteca area. Cathleen has served and continues to serve on many Senate committees, including Insurance, Business, Higher Education, Professions & Economic Development, Transportation and Governmental Organization. Senator Galgiani played a key development role in securing funding for the establishment of U.C. Merced, now home to more than 5,000 students. U.C. Merced has the highest number of students who come from low-income families among all U.C. campuses. She has assisted several local organizations over the years, most notably Give Every Child A Chance. Cathleen was able to open doors to legislators and state officials so they could meet and discuss additional resources for after-school programs. Most recently, she has assisted the East Union Cemetery to regain its legal status. She has also worked with advocates to establish a “Family Justice Center” to provide services to victims of domestic violence. Cathleen led the effort to secure $20 million in the state budget to help pay for police officer training, community-oriented policing and collaboration between mental health professionals and law enforcement. Cathleen is appreciative of the people in Manteca and the surrounding area. She has remained active in local events and personally attends many herself while maintaining a very busy schedule in Sacramento. Throughout her tenure in the Legislature, Senator Cathleen Galgiani has been recognized by various labor, youth, law enforcement and education advocacy groups.