Roderick Wright (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Roderick Wright
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Member of the California State Senate |
|
| In office December 1, 2008 – September 22, 2014 |
|
| Preceded by | Edward Vincent |
| Succeeded by | Isadore Hall III |
| Constituency | 25th district (2008–12) 35th district (2012–14) |
| Member of the California State Assembly from the 48th district |
|
| In office December 2, 1996 – November 30, 2002 |
|
| Preceded by | Marguerite Archie-Hudson |
| Succeeded by | Mark Ridley-Thomas |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Roderick Devon Wright
July 3, 1952 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Children | 2 |
| Residence | Inglewood, California |
| Alma mater | Pepperdine University |
| Occupation | Legislator |
Roderick Devon "Rod" Wright, born on July 3, 1952, is an American politician from the Democratic Party. He served as a representative for parts of California in both the State Assembly and the State Senate. He represented California's 35th State Senate district until September 22, 2014. Before that, he represented the 25th district from 2008 to 2012. Mr. Wright also served in the California's 48th State Assembly district from 1996 until 2002.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Rod Wright grew up in Chicago, Illinois. He later moved to California. He attended Pepperdine University. There, he earned a degree in Urban Studies and City Planning. This field focuses on how cities are planned and developed.
Before Becoming a Legislator
Before he was elected to public office in 1996, Mr. Wright worked for Congresswoman Maxine Waters. He was her District Director. In this role, he helped people with important federal matters. This included things like Social Security and Medicare. He also assisted military veterans with their issues.
Time in the California State Assembly
In 1996, Rod Wright was elected to the California State Assembly. He represented the 48th Assembly District. This district covered a large part of southern Los Angeles County.
Leading the Utilities and Commerce Committee
From 1998 to 2002, Mr. Wright was the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Utilities and Commerce. This committee was in charge of laws related to many important services. These included electricity, natural gas, and telephone services. They also handled private water companies and other business matters.
Key Areas of Focus
During his time in the Assembly, Mr. Wright was recognized for his work in several areas. He focused on public safety, making communities safer. He also worked on education, helping schools and students. Energy and utilities were another key area. He supported small businesses and worked on family law issues. He also focused on protecting people's consumer privacy.
Campaign for State Senate
After leaving the Assembly in 2002, Mr. Wright was out of politics for six years. When he decided to run for the State Senate in 2008, many people did not think he would win. He was running against a well-known politician, former Lieutenant Governor Mervyn Dymally.
Building Support for His Campaign
Mr. Wright worked hard to raise money for his campaign. He also received help from groups that supported his goals. Even though many people in the area did not know him well, he was able to gain support. He won the primary election in 2008.
Time in the California State Senate
Mr. Wright began his term in the California State Senate on December 1, 2008. He represented the 25th district first, and then the 35th district.
Legal Challenges and Resignation
In 2010, Mr. Wright faced legal questions about his voter registration. These issues were related to when he registered to vote for his legislative campaign. Because of these legal challenges, he decided to leave his position in the State Senate. He resigned on September 22, 2014.
Pardon from the Governor
On November 21, 2018, the Governor of California, Jerry Brown, issued a pardon for Mr. Wright. A pardon is an official act that forgives a person for a crime.
Images for kids
-
Roderick Wright
