Rhodesia Ransom

Rhodesia Ransom earned a bachelor's degree from San Francisco State University in 1998 and a graduate degree from Golden Gate University in 2008. Her career experience includes working as a businesswoman. She has been affiliated with Emerge California, Delta Sigma Theta, and Kiwanis.[1]

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California State Assembly

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I grew up working alongside my grandmother, who was a missionary and I learned firsthand that leadership is about service, prompting me to earn a Bachelor’s in Political Science and a Master’s in Public Policy. Service to the community is my life’s mission and 19 years ago I founded a non-profit that works with school districts and mental health providers to bring tools like mentoring, gang prevention programs, and counseling into schools. We've raised millions of dollars and helped thousands of youth, combating the mental health crisis. When faced with a growing homelessness crisis, I stepped up to run for Tracy City Council. As a councilmember, I secured the funds to build the first permanent homeless shelter in Tracy and successfully enacted the first affordable housing project in 20 years. During the pandemic when Tracy did not have the money to fund COVID testing, I worked with my non-profit contacts and brought the first FREE COVID testing site to Tracy. I've fought for equity and empowerment in vulnerable communities and advocated to keep families together, earning me the current support of Civil Rights Activist, Dolores Huerta. I love my community, it's where my husband and I raised our kids. Now that the California Dream is becoming inaccessible for our youth and unsustainable for our seniors, I am stepping up to run for State Assembly. I bring decades of policy and advocacy experience, and I will stand up for working families, not special interests.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Through strategic housing policies, support for small businesses, and addressing the root causes of the affordability crisis, I aim to make California a state that works for everyone. California has become unaffordable for working families, blue-collar workers, and small businesses. People are priced out and families are struggling to purchase basic needs. The housing crisis is forcing our youth and seniors out of communities they know and love, people can’t afford to live and work in the same community, and the cost of rent is outpacing mortgages. We need housing at every level. I’m proud to have enacted the first affordable housing project in Tracy in 20 years and will continue to expand housing on a statewide level when elected. With homelessness at an all-time high, it's crucial to adopt a collaborative, multi-faceted approach addressing both immediate needs and root causes, including substance use and mental illness. As a Tracy City Councilmember, I took decisive action when faced with reluctance from fellow council members. I collaborated with the community and established a task force and working group that secured tax-free funding , resulting in a comprehensive strategic plan and resources for a permanent shelter. As your Assemblymember, I will work to end the epidemic level homelessnes and housing insecurity and champion homelessness reduction with evidence-informed solutions. The rise in crime and retail theft is an unfair burden on families and businesses. Something must be done as our current strategies are ineffective. Public safety has always been a top priority for me and I am committed to fixing these issues. As an experienced leader, I have established gang prevention programs and worked with law enforcement and community organizations to ensure that they have the resources, staffing levels, and support needed. Additionally, our Emergency Services Act must give our first responders local control and modernized systems to protect residents. I previously collaborated with our Senator and presented to California Fire Chiefs to call for change after observing local control issues. My call led to an amendment

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My passion for public policy led me to earn a Master's Degree in Public Policy. When elected I will continue to pass legislation that provides innovative,equitable solutions for affordable housing and addresses systemic and structural issues leading to homelessness. I will fight to address the root causes of crime and for proven rehabilitation approaches, while ensuring our public safety agencies are fully funded. I am committed to fostering transparent and inclusive governance, ensuring that the voices of all constituents are heard and considered in the decision-making process, instead of price-gouging corporations.I have an unwavering commitment to fostering positive change in California through impactful, just,and equitable policies.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

My grandmother. She instilled in me a profound understanding of the power of unity and collective effort. Her teachings emphasized the universal principle that "many hands make light work."

As I spent time with my grandmother, I witnessed firsthand her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. She taught me the value of preparation, accountability, and gratitude. Together, we embarked on a journey to connect families with critical resources, recognizing the transformative potential of collaboration. Through her guidance, I learned that addressing the challenges within a community requires a joint effort and a shared sense of responsibility.

Our collaborative endeavors involved reaching out to individuals facing hardships, providing essential support, and fostering a sense of solidarity among diverse groups. The experience of working alongside my grandmother not only deepened my compassion for others but also fueled my passion for service to the community. Witnessing the tangible difference that a collective commitment to helping others can make inspired me to carry on her legacy of compassion and community service.

This formative period alongside my grandmother planted the seeds of a lifelong mission to contribute meaningfully to society. It instilled in me a belief in the strength of communal bonds and the idea that, by joining forces, we can create positive change and uplift those who need it the most. My grandmother's legacy lives on through my commitment to service, and her teachings continue to guide me as I strive to make a difference in the lives of others.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

An elected official must have a genuine commitment to public service and prioritize the common good over personal interests. They should embody a multitude of characteristics and principles to fulfill their role effectively. Foremost among these is integrity, denoting honesty and a commitment to strong moral principles. This trait builds trust, a cornerstone of effective governance. Accountability is equally vital, requiring officials to take responsibility for their actions and decisions, fostering a sense of responsibility and responsiveness to constituents. Transparency, involving openness and clarity in decision-making, enhances public trust and prevents corruption. Empathy ensures policies consider the diverse perspectives and challenges within the community. Leadership, marked by vision and motivation, guides officials through challenges and unifies constituents. Adaptability is essential in navigating a dynamic political landscape. Collaboration involves working with diverse stakeholders to achieve common objectives, while effective communication connects officials with constituents.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

State legislators bear the crucial responsibility of being the voice of the people they represent, diligently attending sessions, and actively participating in votes that impact the lives of their constituents. Beyond party lines, effective legislators collaborate with colleagues, recognizing the importance of bipartisanship to craft policies that truly serve the diverse needs of their communities.

It is imperative that legislators prioritize the interests of their constituents over those of special interest groups, ensuring that every decision made aligns with the principles of government transparency and accountability. Public trust is paramount, and legislators must remain vigilant against the influence of donors, directing funding towards projects that genuinely benefit the community.

Furthermore, a commitment to public service should be the driving force behind seeking office, with a focus on advancing public policy that uplifts communities rather than building a dynasty with our spouses to pass laws that benefit corporate interests above hardworking people. Legislators must be dedicated to the betterment of society, fostering an environment where the concerns and well-being of the people take precedence over any personal agendas.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

n/a

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes. I believe it is beneficial for state legislators to have previous practical or learned experience working WITH government or IN government. While every legislator's journey is different, your first introduction to policy should not be when elected to the State Legislature. People's lives and livelihoods will depend on your decisions. At the State Level, legislators should have a proven track record of problem-solving, serving the community, and a demonstrated interest in the issues that impact everyday people.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Civil Rights Icon Dolores Huerta, State Controller Malia Cohen,State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CA AG Rob Bonta, State Senator Susan Eggman,San Joaquin Co Sheriff Pat Withrow, Congressman Josh Harder, Tracy Mayor Nancy Young,Tracy City Councilmember Dan Arriola,Mountain,House Board Director Bernice King Tingle,Stockton Unified School Board President Kennetha Stevens,Stockton Unified School Board Vice President Sofia Colón,Firefighters Local 55,CNA,CTA,Teamsters,SJ Building Trades Council,SEIU CA,Tracy&Stockton Dem Clubs,CA Environmental Voters,CA Young Dems,Courage CA,Dolores Huerta Action Fund,Equality CA,Fund Her,Health Care for All CA,Latine Young Dems,Planned Parenthood Advocates Mar Monte,Latinx Dem Club,Full list bit.ly/rrendorse

What committees interest you?

I would like to join the Public Safety Committee, the Health Committee, and the Education Committee,

The Public Safety Committee in the California State Legislature is instrumental in addressing matters related to law enforcement, criminal justice, and public safety policies. This committee scrutinizes legislation focused on policing practices, crime prevention, corrections, and community safety programs. Discussions within the committee often revolve around finding a balance between ensuring public safety and safeguarding individuals' rights. The committee's role is pivotal in shaping policies that foster a safer and more just society.

The Health Committee is tasked with reviewing legislation concerning public health, healthcare delivery, and health policy in California. The committee addresses a broad spectrum of issues, including healthcare infrastructure, preventive care, mental health services, and responses to health crises. Its deliberations contribute to the development of policies that aim to enhance the healthcare system and promote the health and welfare of Californians.

The Education Committee is central to the legislative oversight of California's education system, covering K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and educational policies. This committee reviews and shapes legislation related to school funding, curriculum development, teacher training, and initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes. Discussions within the committee often focus on finding solutions to challenges in the education system, ensuring equitable access to quality education, and preparing students for the demands of the future. The committee's work is essential in shaping the direction of education policies that impact students, teachers, and communities across the state.

California State Senate

Rhodesia Ransom did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2024 Candidate Connection survey.

Rhodesia Ransom did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2020 Candidate Connection survey.