2025 in Review: Seven Questions for Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom, Chair of the Emergency Management Committee

December 29, 2025

California Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom, who represents the 13th Assembly District covering Stockton, Tracy, and Mountain House, reflects on her first year in office with both achievements and challenges. Her most notable accomplishment was creating a constituent casework program that successfully recovered approximately $500,000 for residents struggling with state agencies. As a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus and chair of the Assembly Emergency Management Committee, she focused on ensuring legislative proposals advance equity rather than perpetuate disparities.

Who is affected

Constituents of the 13th Assembly District (Stockton, Tracy, and Mountain House residents)
Black Californians throughout the state
California residents dealing with the Franchise Tax Board and Employment Development Department
Working families facing rising costs
Young people seeking education and workforce opportunities
All Californians impacted by federal funding cuts to disaster preparedness, schools, and essential programs

What action is being taken

Ransom's casework program is actively helping constituents navigate state agencies
The team is recovering funds for constituents (approximately $500,000 returned to date)
As a Black Caucus member, Ransom is reviewing legislative proposals to ensure they advance equity
The Black Equity Collective is working to ensure legislation creates opportunities for Black Californians
California legislators are working to protect residents from federal funding cuts

Why it matters

This matters because historically marginalized communities, particularly Black Californians, have been excluded from policy conversations and left vulnerable to inequitable legislation. With thousands of bills introduced annually (2,350 in this session alone), having advocates who prioritize equity ensures that new laws advance opportunity rather than reinforce existing disparities. The constituent services work demonstrates how direct intervention can provide tangible financial relief to struggling families. Additionally, with billions of dollars in federal funding cuts threatening essential services, state-level protection and advocacy becomes critical for maintaining California's safety net programs and disaster preparedness infrastructure.

What's next

Continue pushing for solutions to make life more affordable for Californians
Invest in education and workforce programs to prepare young people for good-paying jobs
Protect state resources amid federal funding cuts
Reduce bureaucratic red tape to improve service delivery

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint