Diane Papan was first elected to the California State Assembly in November 2022. She represents the 21st Assembly District, which includes the entire Bayside of San Mateo County from Brisbane to East Palo Alto.
In the Assembly, Papan serves as the Assistant Majority Leader for Policy & Research and on the Appropriations; Communications and Conveyance; Judiciary; and Privacy and Consumer Protection committees.
Prior to her election to the State Assembly, Papan served as mayor and city councilmember for the City of San Mateo where she was a recognized regional leader championing investment in infrastructure, transit and climate adaptation among many policy pursuits.
As a member of the State Assembly, Diane is focused on investing in strategies to address climate change and the related challenges of flooding, drought and wildfires as well as neighborhood safety, accessible, quality healthcare services, gun safety, affordable housing, and access to quality public schools.
Papan is a native of San Mateo County raised in both Daly City and Millbrae, California. She earned a B.A. in political science from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1985 and a J.D. from the University of California, Hastings College of Law in 1988. Her career experience includes working as an attorney in several different firms, including her own private practice representing small businesses. She also works as an executive director of the nonprofit John's Closet in Daly City, California providing new clothing to children in need.
Papan and her husband Dan are proud parents of a teenage daughter.