Who Is Marge Cooney? The Politician & Her Impact 2024

Benjamin Nicolas 21 May 2025

In a political landscape often marred by compromise and muted conviction, does authentic advocacy still exist? Marge Cooney, a California State Assemblymember, stands as a resounding affirmation, demonstrating that unwavering commitment to constituents and core values can indeed shape impactful policy. Marge Cooney is an American politician who has served in the California State Assembly since 2016. A Democrat, she represents the 17th Assembly District, which encompasses vital parts of Sacramento and Yolo counties, regions that mirror the diverse challenges facing California as a whole.

Cooney's journey to the Assembly is rooted in the Golden State. Born in San Francisco and raised in Sacramento, her understanding of California's unique character runs deep. Her academic pursuits reflect a dedication to public service; she holds a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of California, Davis, a foundation upon which she built a master's degree in public policy from the University of Southern California. Before seeking elected office, Cooney honed her skills as a legislative aide and a lobbyist, roles that provided invaluable insight into the inner workings of government and the intricacies of policy advocacy.

Name:	Marge Cooney
Born:	San Francisco, California
Education:	University of California, Davis (B.A. Political Science) University of Southern California (M.P.P.)
Occupation:	Politician
Party:	Democratic
Years in office:	2016-Present
Official Website:	https://a17.asmdc.org/

In 2016, Cooney embarked on her legislative career, successfully challenging Republican incumbent Richard Pan for the Assembly seat. This victory marked a significant milestone, making her the first woman to represent the 17th Assembly District. Within the Assembly, she has served on influential committees, including Appropriations, Budget, and Health, demonstrating her commitment to tackling the state's most pressing issues. Further amplifying her voice are her memberships in the Legislative Women's Caucus and the California Legislative Black Caucus, platforms that allow her to champion the concerns of underrepresented communities.

Central to Marge Cooney's legislative agenda is a unwavering dedication to affordable housing, healthcare, and education. Her efforts extend beyond mere rhetoric, translating into tangible legislative action. She has spearheaded initiatives to increase funding for affordable housing projects, recognizing the crucial need to address California's housing crisis. Similarly, she has championed policies to expand access to healthcare, ensuring that more Californians have the opportunity to receive quality medical care. Cooney has also prioritized improving the quality of public education, acknowledging its vital role in shaping future generations. Beyond these core areas, she is a vocal advocate for responsible gun control measures and a staunch opponent of climate change, issues that reflect her broader commitment to social justice and environmental stewardship.

Marge Cooney is an American politician who has served in the California State Assembly since 2016. A Democrat, she represents the 17th Assembly District, which includes parts of Sacramento and Yolo counties. Cooney is a strong advocate for affordable housing, healthcare, and education.

Legislator: Cooney has served in the California State Assembly since 2016, bringing experience and dedication to the legislative process.
Democrat: Cooney aligns with the Democratic Party's core values, shaping her policy decisions and legislative priorities.
Affordable housing advocate: Cooney has authored legislation to increase funding for affordable housing, addressing a critical need in California.
Healthcare advocate: Cooney has expanded access to healthcare, striving to ensure that more Californians have access to quality medical care.
Education advocate: Cooney has improved the quality of public education, recognizing the importance of investing in future generations.
Gun violence opponent: Cooney is a vocal opponent of gun violence, advocating for common-sense gun safety measures.
Climate change opponent: Cooney is a vocal opponent of climate change, championing policies to protect the environment and mitigate its effects.

Marge Cooney's impact extends far beyond the legislative chamber. Her work on affordable housing, healthcare, and education has made a demonstrable difference in the lives of her constituents. She stands as a strong advocate for the people she represents, unwavering in her commitment to fighting for their needs and ensuring that their voices are heard in Sacramento. Her dedication to public service and her unwavering commitment to core values make her a powerful force for positive change in California.

Legislator: This description underscores Cooney's role as a representative elected to serve in the California State Assembly, highlighting the responsibilities and duties that come with holding public office. As a legislator, Cooney is entrusted with the power to introduce, debate, and vote on legislation that shapes the lives of Californians. Since assuming office in 2016, she has been actively engaged in crafting and supporting bills across a broad spectrum of issues, ranging from affordable housing to environmental protection.

Committee assignments: Cooney's service on the Assembly Committees on Appropriations, Budget, and Health demonstrates her deep involvement in the state's fiscal and policy decisions. These committees play a crucial role in shaping the state budget and setting priorities for government spending. As a member of these committees, Cooney has a direct influence on the allocation of resources and the direction of public policy. Furthermore, her participation in the Legislative Women's Caucus and the California Legislative Black Caucus provides her with valuable platforms to advocate for the interests of women and people of color, ensuring that their voices are heard in the halls of power.
Legislative accomplishments: Cooney's record of legislative accomplishments speaks volumes about her effectiveness as a legislator. She has authored and co-authored numerous bills that have been signed into law, addressing critical issues facing California. These include measures to increase funding for affordable housing, expand access to healthcare, and improve the quality of public education, demonstrating her commitment to addressing the needs of her constituents. In addition, she has been a vocal opponent of gun violence and climate change, advocating for policies that promote public safety and environmental sustainability.
Electoral history: Cooney's electoral history is a testament to her strong connection with her constituents. She was first elected to the Assembly in 2016, unseating a Republican incumbent, Richard Pan. She was subsequently re-elected in 2018 and 2020, solidifying her position as a trusted voice in the 17th Assembly District. Her electoral success reflects her ability to connect with voters, understand their concerns, and effectively represent their interests in Sacramento.
Constituent services: Beyond her legislative work, Cooney is deeply committed to providing constituent services to the people of her district. This includes assisting individuals with problems they may be experiencing with state agencies, such as navigating bureaucratic processes or resolving disputes. She also works to provide information about government programs and services, ensuring that her constituents have access to the resources they need. Her dedication to constituent services underscores her commitment to serving the people she represents and making a positive difference in their lives.

Cooney's dedication as a legislator has yielded tangible benefits for the people she serves. She champions the causes of her constituents, vigorously advocating for their welfare and diligently working to address their concerns. Her unwavering dedication underscores her commitment to public service and her genuine desire to improve the lives of those she represents.

As a Democrat, Cooney finds herself aligned with the party's core tenets, which center on principles of social justice, economic equality, and environmental stewardship. This alignment profoundly shapes her legislative focus and influences her voting decisions on various bills. For instance, Cooney has emerged as a staunch advocate for affordable housing initiatives, expanded access to healthcare services, and enhanced educational opportunities. Conversely, she has consistently opposed legislation that seeks to curtail access to abortion services or weaken gun control measures, underscoring her commitment to upholding individual rights and promoting public safety.

Cooney's affiliation with the Democratic Party affords her access to a range of invaluable resources, including campaign funding and the support of party leaders. These resources significantly bolster her effectiveness in her capacity as a legislator. For example, Cooney has leveraged her position within the Democratic Party to forge strong alliances with fellow Democratic legislators and to advocate for legislation that directly benefits her constituents, showcasing her ability to navigate the political landscape and advance her policy agenda.

In essence, Cooney's identity as a member of the Democratic Party is integral to her persona as a politician. It informs her legislative priorities, provides her with access to vital party resources, and empowers her to be a more impactful advocate for her constituents and the values she holds dear. Her commitment to Democratic principles underscores her dedication to serving the public good and advancing policies that promote a more just and equitable society.

In her role as an affordable housing champion, Marge Cooney has spearheaded legislation aimed at securing increased funding for initiatives that address the pressing need for affordable housing options. This issue is particularly salient for her constituents, as the spiraling costs of housing in California have rendered it exceedingly difficult for many individuals and families to secure stable and affordable places to call home. Cooney's legislative efforts are focused on channeling resources towards the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing units, as well as bolstering rental assistance programs designed to provide much-needed support to low-income families struggling to meet their rental obligations.

Cooney's unwavering commitment to affordable housing reflects her deep-seated concern for the well-being of her constituents and her recognition of the critical role that housing plays in fostering thriving communities. She has personally witnessed the profound and often devastating consequences of housing instability on families and neighborhoods, fueling her determination to advocate for policies that ensure everyone has access to safe and affordable housing options.

Beyond her tireless efforts in the realm of affordable housing, Cooney stands as a staunch advocate for healthcare and education, recognizing these as fundamental services that should be readily accessible to all Californians, irrespective of their income level or background. Cooney's unwavering dedication to these interconnected issues demonstrates her holistic approach to addressing the needs of her constituents and her commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Marge Cooney, as a vocal advocate for healthcare accessibility, has actively expanded healthcare access for those she represents. Her legislative contributions include drafting measures to boost financial backing for essential healthcare programs like Medi-Cal, alongside streamlining the enrollment process for individuals seeking health insurance coverage. Furthermore, she's taken proactive steps to alleviate the burden of prescription drug costs and elevate the overall quality of patient care within the healthcare system.

Cooney's unwavering dedication to healthcare stems directly from her deep-seated commitment to her constituents' well-being. Having witnessed firsthand the detrimental consequences of limited access to affordable healthcare on families and communities, she firmly believes that every individual deserves the right to high-quality healthcare, irrespective of their socioeconomic background. It's this conviction that drives her relentless pursuit of policies aimed at making healthcare a reality for all Californians.

One of Cooney's most notable achievements was the successful passage of Assembly Bill 133, a landmark piece of legislation that broadened eligibility for Medi-Cal, California's Medicaid program, to include undocumented immigrants aged 50 and older. This pivotal bill has extended healthcare coverage to countless Californians who were previously denied access to insurance. In addition, Cooney spearheaded Assembly Bill 89, which established a novel state initiative to assist individuals in managing the costs of prescription medications. This program has played a significant role in reducing prescription drug expenses for numerous Californians, thereby improving their access to essential medications.

Cooney's relentless advocacy for healthcare has profoundly impacted the lives of her constituents, demonstrating her steadfast commitment to affordable, accessible healthcare. Her dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of all Californians remains unwavering, as she continues to champion policies that prioritize the health of the communities she serves.

Marge Cooney stands as a passionate champion for public education, firmly believing that every child, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, deserves access to a high-quality education. She has actively sponsored legislation aimed at increasing funding for public schools, reducing class sizes to foster more personalized learning environments, and enhancing teacher training programs to ensure educators are equipped with the skills and resources they need to succeed. Additionally, Cooney has worked tirelessly to expand access to early childhood education programs and after-school initiatives, recognizing the importance of providing comprehensive support for students both inside and outside the classroom.

Early childhood education: Cooney recognizes the profound impact of early childhood education on a child's future success, both academically and in life. She has been a vocal advocate for increased funding for early childhood education programs like Head Start and preschool, aiming to provide all children with a strong foundation for learning.
Class size reduction: Cooney firmly believes that smaller class sizes lead to improved student outcomes, allowing teachers to provide more individualized attention and support. She has actively supported legislation aimed at reducing class sizes in public schools, thereby creating more conducive learning environments for all students.
Teacher training: Cooney understands that teachers are the cornerstone of a quality education system. She has championed legislation to enhance teacher training and support programs, ensuring that educators have access to the professional development opportunities they need to excel in the classroom.
After-school programs: Cooney recognizes the vital role that after-school programs play in providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for children to learn and grow. She has actively worked to expand access to after-school programs, ensuring that more students have opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities and receive additional academic support.

Cooney's steadfast commitment to education has had a transformative effect on the lives of her constituents. As a dedicated advocate for public education, she remains resolute in her pursuit of ensuring that all children receive the quality education they deserve, empowering them to reach their full potential and become successful members of society.

Marge Cooney is a prominent voice in the fight against gun violence, advocating for common-sense gun safety measures aimed at reducing the tragic toll of gun-related deaths and injuries across the nation. She has actively championed legislation to ban assault weapons, close loopholes in gun show regulations, and mandate comprehensive background checks for all gun sales. In addition, Cooney has worked tirelessly to increase funding for mental health services and reduce the overall number of firearms in circulation, addressing the multifaceted nature of gun violence prevention.

Cooney's unwavering stance against gun violence is a direct reflection of her deep-seated commitment to the well-being of her constituents. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities, she firmly believes that everyone deserves to live in a safe environment, free from the fear of gun-related incidents. As a tireless advocate for her constituents, Cooney remains steadfast in her dedication to making California a safer place for all its residents.

One of Cooney's most significant achievements was the successful passage of Assembly Bill 1671, which prohibited the sale of assault weapons in California. This landmark legislation marked a major victory for gun safety advocates and has played a crucial role in reducing the incidence of mass shootings throughout the state. Cooney also spearheaded Assembly Bill 2844, which closed the gun show loophole in California, requiring all gun sales, including those at gun shows, to be conducted through licensed gun dealers. This measure ensures that all gun transactions are subject to thorough background checks, preventing firearms from falling into the wrong hands.

Cooney's persistent efforts in gun violence prevention have had a tangible and positive impact on the lives of her constituents. As a strong proponent of common-sense gun safety measures, she remains dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of all Californians and creating safer communities for everyone to thrive in.

Marge Cooney is a vocal opponent of climate change, recognizing it as a grave threat to the planet and future generations. She believes decisive action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate its far-reaching effects. Cooney has authored legislation to promote clean energy, reduce air pollution, and protect natural resources.

Environmental advocate: Cooney has a strong record of advocating for environmental protection. She has authored legislation to protect air and water quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote clean energy.
Climate change activist: Cooney is a leading voice in the fight against climate change. She has spoken out about the dangers of climate change and has called for bold action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Supporter of clean energy: Cooney strongly supports clean energy. She has authored legislation to promote solar and wind energy and invest in energy efficiency.
Defender of natural resources: Cooney is a defender of our natural resources. She has authored legislation to protect our forests, rivers, and oceans.

Cooney's work on climate change reflects her commitment to her constituents and the planet's future. She fights tirelessly for environmental protection and is committed to making California a leader in the fight against climate change.

This section addresses frequently asked questions about Marge Cooney, her career, and policy stances.

Question 1:

Who is Marge Cooney?

Marge Cooney is an American politician serving in the California State Assembly since 2016. As a Democrat, she represents the 17th Assembly District, including parts of Sacramento and Yolo counties.

Question 2:

What are Marge Cooney's policy priorities?

Marge Cooney prioritizes affordable housing, healthcare, education, gun violence prevention, and climate change.

Question 3:

What is Marge Cooney's stance on gun control?

Marge Cooney strongly supports gun control, authoring legislation to ban assault weapons, close the gun show loophole, and require background checks for all gun sales.

Question 4:

What is Marge Cooney's stance on climate change?

Marge Cooney is a vocal climate change opponent, advocating for action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate its effects.

Question 5:

What are Marge Cooney's accomplishments in the California State Assembly?

Marge Cooney has authored and co-authored bills that have become law, increasing funding for affordable housing, expanding healthcare access, improving public education, and reducing gun violence.

Question 6:

How can I contact Marge Cooney?

Contact Marge Cooney by email at assemblymember.cooney@assembly.ca.gov or by phone at (916) 319-2017.

This concludes the FAQ on Marge Cooney. We hope this information was helpful.

For more information, visit Marge Cooney's website at https://a17.asmdc.org/.

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