Capitol Briefs

Capitol Briefs: Big moves, big decisions

The California State Capitol building in Sacramento, CA. Image by jsolie

In a long-expected move, Dana Williamson stepped down on Monday as Gov. Gavin Newson’s chief of staff. Newsom named longtime political strategist and advisor Nathan Barankin to replace Williamson.

Capitol Briefs

Capitol Briefs: And they’re off.

Assembly swearing-in, photo by Rich Ehisen, Capitol Weekly

The 2025-2026 legislative session kicked off on Monday with the swearing in of lawmakers old and new. Both chambers then adjourned until Jan. 6, 2025. In this edition of Capitol Briefs we share a few tidbits from Monday’s festivities.

Capitol Briefs

Capitol Briefs: Admissions, AI and dyes, oh my!

California State Capitol dome at dusk. Image by Wallentine

Lawmakers are rapidly filling up Gov. Gavin Newsom’s September dance card, sending him scores of bills before they adjourn on Saturday. Here’s a list of some of the ones from yesterday that caught our eye.

Capitol Briefs

Capitol Briefs: To the governor!

The California State Capitol building at dusk.

Lawmakers are burning the midnight oil to address a huge number of bills before Saturday’s deadline. As such, they sent a handful of notable bills are on their way to Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Capitol Briefs

Capitol Briefs: Bills, bills, bills

Image by AP.

With just days to go before the end of session, lawmakers addressed hundreds of bills on Tuesday. They have over 600 more to go before midnight on Saturday.

Capitol Briefs

Capitol Briefs: Bills on the move and some legislative stats

The California Assembly in session. Photo by AP

In the latest edition of Capitol Briefs, we showcase movement on a handful of measures flying under the radar and share some interesting legislative stats compiled by lobbyist and regular Capitol Weekly contributor Chris Micheli.  

Capitol Briefs

Capitol Briefs: Roofies, taxes and a touch of oddness

California State Capitol building in the warm light of the setting sun. Image by rschlie

Capitol Briefs: Roofies, taxes and a touch of oddness. It’s going to be a really busy few days before everyone heads off to summer recess, so here’s a few things to ponder before you go.

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