Gail Pellerin

Gail Pellerin is a Democratic politician and election administrator currently serving as a member of the California State Assembly, representing the 28th district. She has held this office since 2022 and has a background in election administration, having previously served as the Santa Cruz County Clerk for nearly three decades. Pellerin's career has been marked by her commitment to public service and her involvement in various electoral processes, both domestically and internationally.

Early life and career

Gail Pellerin was born on June 24, 1962, in Torrance, California. She pursued her education at California Polytechnic State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism in 1984. This educational background provided her with a foundation in communication and public engagement, skills that would later prove valuable in her political career.

Following her graduation, Pellerin began her professional journey in the realm of public service. In 1993, she joined the Santa Cruz County elections department, where she dedicated over 27 years of her career. Pellerin initially took on the role of elections manager, where she was responsible for overseeing various aspects of the electoral process. Her commitment and expertise led to her appointment as the Santa Cruz County Clerk in 2004, a position she held until her retirement in December 2020. During her tenure as clerk, Pellerin was unopposed in her elections, reflecting her strong standing within the community.

Pellerin's influence extended beyond local elections; she served as President of the California Association of Clerks and Election Officials from 2010 to 2012. In this capacity, she played a significant role in advocating for best practices in election administration across the state. Additionally, she contributed to the California Secretary of State’s Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee as a co-chair, focusing on improving access to the electoral process for all citizens.

Her expertise in electoral processes also led her to serve as an international election monitor in Nagorno-Karabakh, where she participated in observing the parliamentary elections in 2015 and the constitutional referendum elections in 2017. These experiences provided her with a broader perspective on electoral integrity and the importance of democratic processes.

Legislative service

Gail Pellerin transitioned to a legislative role when she filed to run for the California State Assembly on the final day of candidate filing for the 2022 election. She sought to represent the 28th district, which includes parts of Santa Cruz County and Santa Clara County. The incumbent, Mark Stone, had been redistricted from the 29th district and was term-limited, creating an opportunity for Pellerin to enter the race.

In the blanket primary, Pellerin secured the top position with 35.9% of the vote, allowing her to advance to the general election. She faced Republican candidate Liz Lawler, a former mayor of Monte Sereno, in the general election. Pellerin achieved a significant victory, receiving 68% of the vote and solidifying her position as a state legislator.

Pellerin continued her legislative career with a rematch against Lawler in the 2024 election. Once again, she emerged victorious, winning the general election with 66.9% of the vote. Her electoral success reflects her strong connection with constituents and her ability to address the needs of her district.

Since taking office, Pellerin has engaged in various legislative activities. In January 2024, she signed onto a letter from the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, expressing support and solidarity among fellow legislators in light of significant events affecting the Jewish community. This action illustrates her commitment to representing diverse perspectives and advocating for her constituents' interests.

As of July 2024, Pellerin was among four legislators who reported having at least $1 million in stock market investments in their financial disclosures. This information is part of the transparency measures that legislators are required to adhere to, ensuring accountability to the public.

In August 2025, Pellerin endorsed Proposition 50, which is part of the broader redistricting efforts in the United States for the 2025-2026 period. Her support for this proposition indicates her involvement in shaping electoral boundaries and ensuring fair representation for her constituents.

Policy focus and district

Gail Pellerin represents California's 28th Assembly District, which encompasses approximately half of Santa Cruz County and a portion of Santa Clara County. This district is characterized by its diverse population and a range of local issues, including environmental concerns, housing, and public safety. Pellerin's background in election administration has likely influenced her policy focus, emphasizing the importance of accessible and fair electoral processes.

Throughout her legislative career, Pellerin has demonstrated a commitment to addressing the needs of her constituents. Her involvement in the California Legislative Jewish Caucus suggests a focus on community engagement and advocacy for issues that resonate with her district's residents. Additionally, her support for Proposition 50 reflects her interest in the electoral landscape and the implications of redistricting on representation.

Pellerin's personal experiences and professional background contribute to her understanding of the complexities faced by her constituents. Her long tenure in public service, particularly in election administration, has equipped her with insights into the electoral process, which she brings to her role in the State Assembly. This unique perspective allows her to advocate for policies that promote transparency, accessibility, and integrity in elections.

In her personal life, Pellerin resides in unincorporated Santa Cruz County. She is Jewish and has faced personal challenges, including the loss of her husband, Tom Chaffin, who died by suicide during their divorce proceedings in November 2018. Pellerin is a mother to two children, Jacob and Emily, and her family life informs her dedication to public service and community well-being.

Gail Pellerin's career reflects a deep commitment to public service, electoral integrity, and community engagement. As she continues her work in the California State Assembly, her experiences and background will likely shape her approach to addressing the diverse needs of her constituents in the 28th district.