The California State Senate convened on December 2, 2024, for a significant session marked by the swearing-in of newly elected senators and the election of key Senate officers. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Senator Dave Cortese, followed by the introduction of senators-elect from various districts, including Megan Dally and Christopher Cabaldon.

A highlight of the session was the administration of the oath of office to the newly elected senators by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero. This moment was celebrated with applause as the senators took their oaths, officially marking their entry into the California State Senate.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, Senate Resolution 1 was introduced by Majority Leader Gonzales, which called for the organization of the Senate. The resolution passed with unanimous support, confirming the establishment of a quorum for the newly constituted Senate.

Senate Resolution 2 was then presented, proposing the election of Mike McGuire as President Pro Tempore, Erica Contreras as Secretary of the Senate, and Katrina Rodriguez as Sergeant at Arms. This resolution also passed, solidifying the leadership for the upcoming session.

In a notable address, Senator Gonzales emphasized the historic nature of the day, highlighting that the Senate now has a record number of members of color and achieved gender parity for the first time. This milestone reflects California's commitment to diversity and representation.

The session concluded with remarks from Republican Leader Brian Jones, who expressed optimism for bipartisan cooperation in addressing California's challenges. He encouraged senators to focus on state issues rather than national distractions, reinforcing the importance of collaboration for the benefit of all Californians.

Overall, the session underscored a commitment to inclusivity and effective governance as the California State Senate prepares for the legislative work ahead in 2025.