Damon Connolly

Damon Connolly is an American attorney and politician currently serving as a member of the California State Assembly, representing the 12th district. A member of the Democratic Party, he was elected in November 2022 and officially took office on December 5, 2022. Connolly has a background in law and local government, having previously served on the San Rafael City Council and the Marin County Board of Supervisors.

Early life and career

Damon Connolly was born on June 19, 1963, and grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area. His educational journey began at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics. Following his undergraduate studies, he continued at the same institution to obtain a Juris Doctor from the UC Berkeley School of Law. This strong educational foundation in economics and law has informed his professional and political career.

Connolly's professional career began in the legal field, where he worked as an associate at Thelen LLP, a law firm based in San Francisco, from 1989 to 1993. His experience in private practice provided him with valuable insights into legal processes and corporate law. After his tenure at Thelen LLP, Connolly transitioned to public service by joining the California Department of Justice. He served as a deputy attorney general from 1993 to 1998, during which time he handled various legal matters for the state. His role expanded as he became a supervising deputy attorney general from 1998 to 2007, overseeing a team of attorneys and managing significant legal cases.

In 2007, Connolly became a partner at Girard Gibbs LLP, where he continued to practice law until 2008. His legal career, marked by both private and public sector experience, laid the groundwork for his subsequent political endeavors. Connolly's interest in local governance led him to run for public office. He was elected to the San Rafael City Council in 2007, where he served until 2014. His time on the council allowed him to engage directly with community issues and develop a deeper understanding of local governance.

Following his tenure on the city council, Connolly was elected to the Marin County Board of Supervisors in 2015. He served in this capacity until 2022, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated public servant. His experiences in local government provided him with a platform to address various issues affecting his constituents and to advocate for policies that aligned with his values.

Legislative service

In October 2021, Connolly announced his candidacy for the California State Assembly, seeking to represent the 12th district. This decision came after the incumbent, Marc Levine, opted to run for California Insurance Commissioner. Connolly's campaign was marked by a commitment to progressive values and a focus on issues pertinent to his district. He participated in the primary election held in June 2022, where he finished first among five candidates in a jungle primary format. This victory positioned him for the general election, which took place later that year.

Connolly successfully won the general election with a majority of the votes, securing 51.8% of the total. His election to the State Assembly marked a significant milestone in his political career, allowing him to transition from local to state-level governance. Since taking office on December 5, 2022, Connolly has been involved in legislative activities, contributing to discussions and decisions that shape California's policies and laws.

As a member of the California Legislative Progressive Caucus, Connolly aligns himself with a group of legislators who advocate for progressive policies and social justice initiatives. His participation in this caucus reflects his commitment to addressing issues such as economic inequality, environmental sustainability, and healthcare access. Connolly's legislative work is informed by his extensive background in law and local government, enabling him to navigate complex legal and policy matters effectively.

Policy focus and district

Representing California's 12th district, Connolly's policy focus encompasses a range of issues that are significant to his constituents. The district includes parts of Marin County, an area known for its diverse communities and environmental concerns. Connolly's background in law and local governance informs his approach to addressing the needs and priorities of the district's residents.

One of Connolly's primary areas of focus is environmental sustainability. Given the district's proximity to natural resources and its vulnerability to climate change, he advocates for policies that promote environmental protection and climate resilience. This includes supporting initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing public transportation, and preserving open spaces.

Additionally, Connolly is committed to addressing economic issues, particularly those affecting working families. His legislative agenda includes efforts to improve access to affordable housing, support small businesses, and promote economic development in the region. By focusing on these areas, Connolly aims to create a more equitable and prosperous community for all residents of the 12th district.

Healthcare access is another critical component of Connolly's policy focus. He supports initiatives that aim to expand healthcare coverage and improve health outcomes for underserved populations. This aligns with his broader commitment to social justice and equity, ensuring that all individuals have access to essential services.

As a currently serving member of the California State Assembly, Connolly continues to engage with his constituents and address their concerns. His legislative work reflects his dedication to public service and his desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those he represents. Through his efforts, Connolly seeks to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the future of California and the well-being of its residents.