Capitol Weekly’s Top 100: Tony Bui

No. 42 Tony Bui

There was a time when the California Apartment Association was considered a lesser Capitol player. Not any longer, and that is in great part due to Tony Bui, the group’s Senior Vice President of State Public Affairs. Bui has a take no prisoners style that doesn’t always sit well with others, but we doubt he’s losing any sleep over it because he’s also known as one of the most effective lobbyists in the building. His combination of legislative expertise, campaign experience, long-standing relationships and control over a major political operation makes him a significant player whenever housing issues come up in the Legislature or are on the statewide ballot. He is also widely respected for his ability to forge partnerships with other likeminded housing advocates. As the manager of CAA’s campaign coffers, he is not afraid to spend as much as necessary to squelch ballot measures and legislation it doesn’t like. The bottom line: when it comes to housing issues, Bui has zero trouble getting meetings with anyone and everyone he wants.

Updated August 11, 2026