Capitol Weekly’s Top 100: Steve Maviglio

 TOP 100 HALL OF FAME

Steve Maviglio is inarguably one of the most prominent figures in modern Capitol history. Is there anyone who worked in or around the Capitol over the last several decades who he doesn’t know? Maybe there’s a janitor or summer intern out there who has only heard of him. But just about everyone else involved in California politics has not only come into contact with Maviglio but has a story to tell about him as well. And there’s a good chance that story will include an encounter with one of his very sharp elbows. At this point, it’s hard to even define what Maviglio’s job title would be. A former state lawmaker from New Hampshire – he served three terms in the NH House before heading west – Maviglio has since held a number of roles in California government, including as press secretary for Gov. Gray Davis and deputy chief of staff to both Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez and his successor, Speaker Karen Bass. These days he is probably best known for his work in communications, and is without a doubt in every Capitol reporter’s rolodex. But don’t underestimate his behind-the-scenes strategizing. He was, for instance, a big background player in the palace coup that saw current Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas usurp then-Speaker Anthony Rendon. He also was key – along with fellow HOF inductee Gale Kaufman – in handing former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger a serious thumping on his so-called “year of reform” ballot measures back in the day. And he can claim a lot of credit for helping to beat back oil industry efforts to repealing California’s historic AB 32 environmental bill. In short, love him or hate him – and there are definitely folks in both camps – Steve Maviglio is not someone you want as an adversary. He is the epitome of the well-connected capitol operative – smart, straightforward and, above all, relentless. His influence is undeniable, which is why he has been on 14 Top 100 lists. It’s also what makes him an obvious choice to be a member of our inaugural Hall of Fame class. The only question now is this: Will the Capitol community let Maviglio retire? He says he wants to cut back, but he’s so effective, so indispensable really, that it might be quite a while before he can actually sneak off to his estate in Puglia and relax.

Updated Aug. 6, 2024