Edward M. Gaines (born April 25, 1958) is a California State Senator, representing the 1st Senate district. He won a January 4, 2011, special election to replace the late Dave Cox and took office two days later. Prior to his election to the Senate, Gaines was a California State Assemblyman, representing the 4th Assembly district, which is centered on the suburbs of Placer County, which are located east of Sacramento. Gaines succeeded longtime local politician Tim Leslie in the Assembly.