Mikaila Kruse, who has extensive legislative and governmental affairs experience in Riverside County and Sacramento, has been named chief of staff to Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson.
Kruse, who previously served as the acting legislative director for State Senator Richard Roth in Sacramento, started Oct. 25.
“I am excited to get back to Riverside to work with Mayor Lock Dawson on efforts that are important to the community,” Kruse said. “There are challenges and opportunities ahead, and I am eager to contribute ideas and develop solutions.”
Kruse worked for Senator Roth for more than six years, first as a Field Representative, then as a legislative/press aide before becoming an analyst, then legislative director. In her most recent role, she spearheaded a legislative and press team to achieve the senator’s legislative objectives, successfully securing funding for critical initiatives, including acute care psychiatric beds under The Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond Act of 2023, ongoing operational funding for the UC Riverside School of Medicine, and expansion funds for the California State University, San Bernardino Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) Program.
Under her leadership, the office compiled an extensive legislative package comprised of 36 bills and 5 resolutions for the 2023-2024 session, marking the senator’s most ambitious legislative agenda to date.
Kruse’s previous experience includes working on political campaigns, voter registration efforts, and as a substitute teacher. She also interned in the U.S. Senate in Washington, D.C. She received bachelor’s degrees in political science and history from UC Santa Cruz, as well as a Master of Public Policy degree from UC Riverside.
“Mikaila Kruse’s diverse background gives her a breadth of knowledge in both state and local government which are critical for effective advocacy,” Lock Dawson said. “I look forward to her leadership on issues facing the City of Riverside.”
