Fast-rising star Alexandra Macedo of Tulare is the new leader of the Republican caucus in the California Assembly.

Macedo assumed the top leadership role Monday after Republicans ousted Heath Flora of Ripon after less than a year in the role.

In addition, Macedo named Assemblyman David Tangipa of Clovis as the Republicans’ minority whip.

Heath Faces State Ethics Probes: California Post

The change took place Monday, one day after The California Post reported that Heath is facing two state ethics investigations and spent more than $11,000 in campaign money at a Sacramento “dive bar.”

In addition, Flora faced growing anger in his caucus for a recent vote for Democratic legislation that allowed 14 local governments to seek sales-tax increases beyond existing limits.

Flora also has faced criticism for having an affair with a former lobbyist, which was first reported by The Sacramento Bee in October 2025, and missing child-support payments. That criticism gathered steam because Flora’s political fortunes had been made, in part, on claims of being an anti-corruption fighter.

Republicans Working to Make California Affordable: Macedo

Macedo is a first-term Assemblymember who had landed on the Flora’s leadership team. She already has a national profile, appearing on Fox News, and leading the charge to shut down California’s controversial high-speed rail project.

“I am deeply honored by the trust my colleagues have placed in me, and I am proud to stand alongside a unified caucus dedicated to real, common-sense solutions,” Macedo said in a statement. “Our message is clear: California is becoming unaffordable for working families, and our caucus is united in the fight to bring down the cost of living, make our communities safer and hold state bureaucrats accountable.”

In a statement sent to GV Wire, California Republican Party Chairwoman Corrin Rankin said of Macedo:

“Alexandra Macedo represents a new generation of Republican leadership in California. She understands what it takes to win elections, and she knows that success requires candidates, caucus members, donors, party leaders and grassroots volunteers to work as one team. She has earned the trust of her colleagues, and I am confident she will be a strong voice for Republican members and the Californians they represent.”

‘A Crucial Time for Our State,” Says Tangipa

Said Tangipa in a news release: “I do not underestimate the significance of accepting the role of Minority Whip during such a critical time for our state. California is facing a serious budget crisis while families across the state are struggling to afford basic necessities and essential services. California families should come first—not government spending.”

Republicans face an uphill battle in passing legislation because of the Democrats’ supermajorities in the Assembly and Senate. In addition, the last Republicans to hold statewide office were Gov.  Arnold Schwarzenegger and Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner, who exited in 2011.