California staffer faces HR complaints after verbal attack on journalist

Terry Schanz, the chief of staff to California Democratic Assemblywoman Tina McKinnor, is facing formal human resources complaints following a verbal confrontation with a journalist. Schanz, who receives an annual taxpayer-funded salary of approximately $207,828, allegedly interrupted an interview conducted by independent journalist Nick Shirley outside the California State Capitol in Sacramento on August 19.

During the incident, Schanz reportedly displayed a sign reading, “Allegedly Nick Shirley Has a Small Penis. Prove Me Wrong,” and repeatedly made crude personal remarks regarding the journalist. The confrontation occurred while Shirley was interviewing lawmakers about Assembly Bill 2624, a piece of legislation authored by Assemblywoman Mia Bonta aimed at protecting immigrant-run businesses from online harassment.

Multiple complaints have been filed with the California Legislature’s HR department. While Schanz is expected to face disciplinary consequences, specific measures have not yet been announced.