Heath Flora

Heath Hubert Flora is a Republican member of the California State Assembly representing District 9, which encompasses the northern San Joaquin Valley including the cities of Manteca and Lodi. He is a lifelong farmer, business owner, and volunteer firefighter.

Flora grew up on a farm and has been involved in agriculture and firefighting throughout his career. He worked for CAL FIRE for three summers and received training as a paramedic. He has served as a volunteer firefighter for over fifteen years, working his way up through the ranks to Battalion Chief.

In the business sector, Flora serves as a Director for International Sales at Exact Corporation, a family-owned business that manufactures nut harvesting and forcible entry equipment for firefighting. He also owns Golden Valley Equipment, which sells used agricultural equipment.

Beyond his professional work, Flora has engaged in extensive volunteer efforts, including serving as a regional director for Sons of the Flag, an organization focused on advancing care and treatment of long-term burn victims. Through his church, he has done volunteer work in Cambodia, helping to build churches and English schools.

Political Experience

Flora's political career began in 2016 when he ran for the California State Assembly to succeed Republican Kristen Olsen. In an upset victory, he defeated Ken Vogel, a former San Joaquin County Supervisor, with 52.2% of the votes and was elected to represent District 12. He was re-elected in 2018 with 60% of the votes, defeating Robert D. Chase.

In his first term, Flora authored seven bills that were signed into law, including legislation to develop a firefighter pre-apprenticeship program and to reduce the impact of property taxes on new construction. His subsequent legislative work has established a statewide firefighter apprenticeship program, provided greater access to individuals' vital records, and set safety standards pertaining to electric motorized scooters.

As of September 2025, Flora was elected Minority Leader of the California State Assembly by the Assembly Republican Caucus. He currently serves as Vice Chair of the Committees on Natural Resources and Labor & Employment and sits on the Agriculture, Rules, and Business & Professions committees. He also holds positions with the Joint Committee on Rules and the Budget Committee.

In the 2024 election, Flora won re-election with 73.2% of the vote in the primary, reflecting strong support in his district.