CA120
For the past 14 years California has been experimenting with a version of the Open Primary in which the top two vote getters, irrespective of party, advance to the General Election. In theory, the thinking of voters in these races should be simple. They should be asking themselves “which one is the closest to my views?” and voting for that candidate. But, in practice it’s not that simple.
Micheli Minute
Lobbyist, author and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.
News
While Sacramento’s elite firms generate enviable revenues in the millions of dollars, they face an underappreciated challenge as moneymaking businesses: finding new clients.
News
For most animal lovers, their dogs, cats or other four-legged critters are viewed as nothing less than valued members of the family. But in cases where animals instead suffer abuse bad enough to be forcibly removed from the home, they also become evidence that can keep them legally isolated and unavailable for adoption for months or even years. Thanks to a bill recently signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, that won’t be the case for much longer.
Micheli Files
In reviewing some of the bills on Governor Newsom’s Desk after the conclusion of the 2026 California Legislative Session, I have come across a number of examples of bill language that I believe is in need of improvement.
Podcast
CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: Kelly Calkin heads Calkin Public Affairs, a Sacramento-based firm that advises some of the biggest names in California politics. Calkin has a different background from many of his public affairs colleagues – he cut his teeth working for Labor, first at the California Building and Construction Trades State Council then for the California Professional Firefighters. He launched CPA thirteen years ago, but “refreshed” and expanded the firm in 2025.
Opinion
Hydropower plays a critical role in maintaining both affordable, reliable electricity, and water flow and distribution.
Opinion
AB 1842 and AB 1847 show what can happen when lawmakers and stakeholders work collaboratively through difficult policy questions.
