Kate Sanchez, born in 1988, is a Republican Assemblymember representing California's 71st Assembly District, which includes cities such as Temecula, Murrieta, French Valley, Wildomar, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Trabuco Canyon, Coto de Caza, Ladera Ranch, and Rancho Mission Viejo, along with unincorporated areas in Riverside and Orange Counties. Elected in November 2022 in a close race against fellow Republican Matt Rahn, she succeeded Randy G. Voepel and serves as vice chair of the Appropriations Committee, with memberships on the Government Organization, Health, Judiciary, Rules , and Joint Committee on Rules committees. A proud mother and businesswoman, she advocates for parental rights, public safety, and opposes tax increases; notable achievements include authoring bills to lower taxes and fees, increase penalties for shoplifting, prohibit homeless encampments near schools, require emergency epinephrine auto-injectors in schools, and prevent heat strokes on public school campuses.

Education and Political Experience

Sanchez began her career working for former U.S. Congressman Ed Royce, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and later served numerous other lawmakers. She was a member of the California Policy Center, a right-leaning think tank focused on nonpartisan education reform and public school solutions. Her family has resided in the 71st Assembly District for over 30 years.