California Dem making $207K faces HR complaints over ‘small penis’ stunt

California taxpayers are contributing over $207,000 annually to Terry Schanz’s salary, yet this Democratic insider reportedly spent work hours making inappropriate jokes.

Schanz, who serves as chief of staff for Democratic Assemblywoman Tina McKinnor, is now the subject of formal HR complaints. He allegedly interrupted an August 19 interview outside the California Capitol, engaging in a vulgar personal attack on independent journalist Nick Shirley.

According to KCRA, multiple complaints have been lodged with the California Legislature’s HR department, and Schanz is anticipated to face repercussions for his actions.

Schanz receives a taxpayer-funded salary of $17,319 monthly, totaling $207,828 annually.

During Shirley’s interview outside the Capitol, Schanz allegedly appeared with a sign that proclaimed:

“Allegedly Nick Shirley Has a Small Penis. Prove Me Wrong.”

He continued to mock further.

“Did you guys hear that Nick Shirley has a small penis allegedly?” Schanz reportedly said.

This incident unfolded amid significant political discussions.

Shirley was interviewing California politicians regarding Assembly Bill 2624, known as the “Privacy for immigration support services providers” bill, introduced by Democratic Assemblywoman Mia Bonta.

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The proposed legislation aims to safeguard immigrant-run enterprises, including healthcare providers, from “online harassment” and doxxing.

Republicans have labeled it the “Stop Nick Shirley Act.”

Shirley has expressed criticism of the bill, claiming it was drafted after he revealed “widespread fraud in immigrant communities” in both California and Minnesota.

The bill has been approved by the California Legislature and awaits a decision from Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who has until September 30 to sign or veto it.

The Senate passed the bill with a 30-10 vote along strict party lines.

However, Schanz’s recent antics are only the latest controversy involving the Democratic figure.

His name was mentioned in a 2025 wrongful termination lawsuit, which alleged political bullying and a toxic workplace culture within top Assembly leadership.

In January, his office faced criticism for allegedly pressuring the nonprofit newsroom CalMatters to modify footage involving McKinnor after she was questioned about her costly designer handbag.

As the head of the Sacramento Democratic Party, Schanz has also been accused by local moderates and conservatives of engaging in aggressive political bullying and excluding opponents.

Now, he finds himself in the midst of another scandal, this time involving arguably the least respectable political stunt imaginable.