In 2026, the most populous state in the nation could witness the election of its first lesbian governor. Toni Atkins, a longtime Democratic legislator from California, has officially announced her candidacy for the position. The announcement was made at the San Diego Air and Space Museum. If elected, Atkins will succeed Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is set to leave office due to term limits. Atkins was elected to the Assembly in 2010, then assumed the role of speaker in 2014. In 2016, she transitioned to the state Senate and rose to the position of president pro tempore in 2018. She is the first lesbian to lead either the Assembly or the Senate. #Lesbian Culture