Assemblyman James Gallagher presents Chico resident Jeanie Beeman with the 2026 Woman of the Year award for Assembly District 3 during a ceremony at the State Capitol on March 16. Photo courtesy of Assemblyman James Gallagher’s office

CHICO, CA (MPG) - Assemblyman James Gallagher has named Chico resident Jeanie Beeman as the 2026 Woman of the Year for Assembly District 3, recognizing her for a widely shared viral moment and her commitment to civility and community.

Beeman drew national attention in 2025 after a video filmed at her workplace showed her calmly responding to a customer who confronted her over a political T-shirt referencing conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. The video circulated widely online, garnering millions of views and sparking conversations about respectful discourse in public spaces.

Gallagher said Beeman’s response stood out as an example of composure and principle.

“We need more Jeanie Beemans in America,” Gallagher said. “People who stand for what they believe in and do so with civility and decency still matter, and Jeanie is a great example of that.”

Beeman was formally honored March 16 at the State Capitol as part of the California State Assembly’s annual Woman of the Year recognition, which highlights women from across the state for their contributions to their communities.

According to Gallagher’s office, Beeman is a longtime Chico resident and lifelong Californian who has spent much of her life in the Central Valley. She has worked at Target for 23 years and is a mother of two, grandmother of five and great-grandmother of one.

Beyond the viral moment that brought her national visibility, Beeman has also been active in suicide prevention efforts following the loss of her husband of 40 years, reflecting a continued commitment to supporting others through personal hardship.

Gallagher also emphasized the broader message behind Beeman’s recognition.

“She turned a moment that could have gone badly into an example of how we should treat each other,” he said. “Even when people are rude or we strongly disagree, we can still choose kindness.”

The Woman of the Year designation is awarded annually by members of the State Assembly, with each legislator selecting an honoree from their district.