Rural California can finally claim both legislative leaders as its own

SACRAMENTO, California — It’s the first time in more than 50 years that both of California’s legislative leaders hail from rural districts. Local politicians accustomed to being on the outskirts of Sacramento policymaking are enjoying the view from the inside.

Rural interests, particularly agriculture but also forestry and local government, see an opening to finally make their mark on nation-leading policies, especially on the environment.