Lesbian Calif. Rep Named Majority Whip

Toni Atkins, a gay first-year member of California's state assembly representing San Diego, was named majority whip Wednesday.

"Assemblymember Atkins prioritizes working families," speaker John Perez, who is also gay, said in a statement. "She has been a fierce advocate for jobs, and I look forward to working with her to get California back to work."

Atkins's responsibilities will include securing votes for bills and managing Democratic floor strategy, according to Gay Politics. Atkins previously served on the San Diego city council, and she acted as an interim mayor during a five-month vacancy in 2005.