On the Frontlines: Senator Dave Cortese Honors Counties Protecting Communities Amid Federal Uncertainty

SACRAMENTO, CA – As a former member on the County of Santa Clara Board Supervisors for 12 years, California State Senator Dave Cortese (D – San Jose) has proudly introduced Senate Resolution 96 (SR 96) to declare April as National County Government Month, spotlighting the frontline role counties play in protecting over 40 million Californians – especially in times of federal uncertainty.\

Across California, counties are navigating increased pressure as federal decisions impact funding, public health programs, housing, and social safety nets. From safeguarding access to care to maintaining critical services, counties are fighting hard to meet the moment—adapting quickly, filling gaps, and standing as a backstop for residents.

For Senator Cortese, the recognition is personal. He served 12 years on the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, where he saw firsthand how local leadership can drive real results.

“I’ve been on the ground at the county level—I know what it takes,” Cortese mentioned. “When federal policies fall short, counties don’t get to walk away. They step up. They innovate. They protect. That’s the work, and that’s why this recognition matters.”

Senate Resolution 96 honors the essential work of county governments and calls for continued state-local partnership to ensure counties have the tools and resources needed to respond, adapt, and lead.

“58 Counties show up for every resident of California every single day.  Our collective greatest successes are realized when our partnership with the state is strong, and that collaboration has never been more critical as together we stare down the most draconian measures the federal government has ever undertaken to strip people of safety net services for which they are eligible by law,” said Susan Ellenberg, California State Association of Counties President and Santa Clara County Supervisor. “The state government will make consequential budgetary decisions in the upcoming weeks, but counties will be the places where implementation and operationalization of those policies or decisions will be realized or stymied. In order for California to lead, we must lead together."

“County government isn’t abstract—it’s immediate, it’s essential, and it’s often the most impactful form of government for our families,” Cortese said. “This month, we recognize the public servants who show up every day to deliver for our communities.”

Senator Dave Cortese represents Senate District 15, which encompasses San Jose and much of Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley. Visit Senator Cortese’s website: https://sd15.senate.ca.gov

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