James Gallagher

James Gallagher. He is an American politician and attorney serving as a member of the California State Assembly, representing the 3rd district. A member of the Republican Party, he has been a prominent voice on issues related to water policy, agriculture, and fiscal conservatism in the California Legislature. His district encompasses portions of the Sacramento Valley and Northern California, including Butte County, Colusa County, Glenn County, Sutter County, Tehama County, and Yuba County.

Early life and education

Gallagher was raised in Yuba City within Sutter County, an area deeply connected to the agricultural industry of the Sacramento Valley. His early experiences in the region shaped his perspectives on water resource management and rural economics. He pursued his undergraduate education at the University of California, Davis, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. Following this, Gallagher attended the McGeorge School of Law at the University of the Pacific, where he received his Juris Doctor degree. His legal training provided a foundation for his subsequent career in both law and public policy.

Career

Prior to his election to the California State Assembly, Gallagher worked as an attorney, focusing on issues pertinent to Northern California businesses and agricultural interests. He was first elected to the California State Assembly in 2018, succeeding fellow Republican James Gallagher. In the California Legislature, he has served in several leadership roles, including as Vice Chair of the Assembly Committee on Water, Parks and Wildlife and as a member of the Assembly Committee on Appropriations. Gallagher has been a leading advocate for reforming the California Environmental Quality Act, increasing water storage capacity, and opposing state tax increases. He played a visible role in the political aftermath of the 2018 Camp Fire, advocating for utility reform and wildfire liability issues affecting his district.

Political positions

Gallagher is identified as a fiscal conservative and a strong supporter of the agricultural sector. His key policy positions include advocating for the construction of the Sites Reservoir project, supporting reforms to the State Water Resources Control Board, and opposing the California High-Speed Rail project. He has been critical of state mandates on climate change policy that he argues burden rural communities. On social issues, Gallagher generally aligns with the Republican platform, having voted against measures such as AB 5 regarding independent contractors. He has also been involved in litigation against state actions, including challenges to gubernatorial emergency powers.

Electoral history

In the 2018 election for District 3, Gallagher defeated Democratic candidate Rebecca Garcia. He was re-elected in 2020, overcoming a challenge from Democrat Megan Dahle. His 2022 re-election bid was successful against Democrat Michele Wyman. The district, which includes Butte County and Yuba County, is considered a Republican stronghold within the largely Democratic California State Assembly. His campaigns have consistently focused on local control, water infrastructure, and economic issues relevant to the Sacramento Valley.

Personal life

Gallagher resides in Nicolaus, a small community in Sutter County. He is married and has children. His personal and professional life remains closely tied to the agricultural community of the Sacramento Valley. Outside of his legislative duties, he is involved with local organizations and maintains a law practice in the region.

Category:Members of the California State Assembly Category:California Republicans Category:University of California, Davis alumni Category:McGeorge School of Law alumni