No. 7: Capitol Weekly’s Top 100

7. Eric Bauman

Encounter Eric Bauman at a political event, and you’re probably in for an impassioned and knowledgeable political discussion. Bauman, one of L.A.’s most powerful political leaders, is now chair of the California Democratic Party, replacing longtime chair John Burton. The aggressive Bauman lives and breathes politics. Right now, he can enjoy his party’s success: Registration stands at 44.4% of California’s 19 million registered voters, and the hated Republicans have slipped to 25.1%. That means the California GOP is now in third place behind those who registered with no party preference at 25.5%. Bauman headed the Los Angeles County Democratic Party for 17 years and still is a top adviser to the Capitol’s Democratic leadership. The Bronx, N.Y., native is a registered nurse, who was on the forefront of the battle against HIV/AIDS during its height. Bauman plays a key role in allotting party resources between now and Nov. 6, hoping to take back control of the House from the Republicans. Bauman lives in the North Hollywood hills with his husband Michael and his dog Moe.

Updated Aug. 15, 2o19