The California Assembly chose as its next speaker Thursday, which means that for the first time in 34 years neither Democratic legislative leader will be from the Bay Area.
Los Angeles lawmaker Karen Bass on Thursday became the first African-American woman to be elected speaker of the California Assembly, considered by many to be the second-most-powerful political position in the state.
She's also the second woman, though Republican Doris Allen held the position for only four months in 1995.
Bass, a Democrat, expressed joy over the new gig at a news conference, but downplayed the historic moment after having outlasted nine competitors.
"I'm still trying to come to grips that this has happened," Bass said. "I'm going to be thankful to be the next speaker, regardless of my race, regardless of my gender."
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