POLITICAL LEGACY

Carole Migden’s political journey is one of breakthrough leadership, bold ideas, and persistent public service. From the streets of San Francisco to the chambers of the State Capitol, she challenged norms, broke barriers, and left a lasting imprint on California’s political landscape.

Her career spans roles as a San Francisco Supervisor, State Assemblywoman, statewide Board of Equalization member, and State Senator. Along the way she became one of the first openly lesbian legislators in California, the first woman and lesbian to chair major legislative committees, and a fierce advocate for equity, environment, and civil rights.

Below is a timeline tracing her electoral campaigns and major victories — a portrait of how she moved through public offices, shaped policy, and pushed the boundaries of what was possible in California governance.

1984-2008

Member of the Democratic National Committee

1990-1993

Chair, San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee (DCCC)
Carole Migden launched her political career at the grassroots level, winning a seat on the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee. She later became the first openly lesbian chair of the DCCC, where she was instrumental in revitalizing the local party and building progressive power.

1991

Elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors
Migden made history as one of the few openly LGBTQ elected officials in the city. On the Board of Supervisors, she focused on neighborhood investment, housing, and expanding health services, quickly establishing herself as a bold and effective legislator.

1996

Elected to the California State Assembly (District 13, San Francisco)
Elected to represent San Francisco in the State Assembly, Migden became the first openly lesbian member of the Assembly. She rose to chair the powerful Assembly Appropriations Committee and authored groundbreaking legislation on healthcare, environment, consumer protection, and LGBTQ rights.

Re-elected in 1998 and 2000.

2002

Elected to the California State Board of Equalization (District 1)
Migden won a seat on the state’s tax board, overseeing billions in revenue. Her tenure emphasized fairness in tax policy and closing corporate loopholes.

2004

Elected to the California State Senate (District 3, covering San Francisco, Marin, and Sonoma Counties)
Migden returned to the legislature, this time in the State Senate, where she advanced major bills on healthcare, environmental protection, foster youth, consumer safety, and civil rights.

2008

Ran for Re-election to the State Senate
Migden sought re-election but was defeated in the Democratic primary. Despite this, her decade-spanning career secured her reputation as a trailblazer for progressive politics and LGBTQ representation in California.

2009-2010

State Commissioner of the California Integrated Waste Management Board.

2011-2012

State Commissioner of the California Agricultural Labor Relations Board.