The 48-year-old Rendon earned the respect of his colleagues after he took a leading role in the passage of a $7.5 billion water bond. And Rendon says that with the recent changes to term limits, he’ll have more time to take on big issues.
"I think what has changed all of our approaches to the job, as an institution, is the extension of term limits to 12 years, You see that on issues pertaining to infrastructure. We want to get it right. I don’t think we rush into decisions around here at all."
More time in office also means more time to develop relationships with colleagues. In a show of bipartisanship, Rendon asked new Assembly Republican leader Chad Mayes to second Rendon’s nomination to be speaker. Mayes, of Yucca Valley, says he was honored Rendon asked, even though they have different philosophies.
“I think we both want the same end. But I think the means to get there we have vast disagreements about," Mayes says. "But I don’t think that there’s going to be any vitriol in our relationship, and I don’t think that’s how he’s going to lead either."
San Francisco Assemblyman Phil Ting has known Rendon for six years. Rendon’s biggest asset? He’s a good listener, Ting says.
"I think too often in life we spend time thinking about what am I going to tell that person to move them. Instead of why don’t I just listen to them, and really understand what they want and why they need it and what they care about," he says. "And I think that’s one of his best skills.”
It’s a skill he’ll need to use a lot in the coming years. Democratic consultant Robin Swanson served as communications director for two years under former Speaker John Pérez. She says everything will change for Rendon once he takes over.
“You take on the role of essentially managing the operations for the entire state Assembly, which is a bigger job than you would think," she says. "In some ways you’re both a player and coach because you’re doing both jobs. And it’s a juggling act.”
Rendon, who will be termed out in 2024, could potentially be the longest-serving speaker since Willie Brown held the post from 1980 to 1995. But he says he’s not focused on that.
"My focus is on the short term. My focus is on making sure that we accomplish what’s in front of us," he says. "I think, to a large extent, it’s like any other job. If you’re successful in the short term, then the long term will take care of itself."
Rendon takes over as speaker, succeeding Toni Atkins, after a ceremony at the state Capitol this afternoon.
