Assemblymembers Anthony Rendon and James Gallagher. Photo by AP. A new California Assembly committee is exploring the reasons why some people are happier with their lives than others. Headed by former Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood), the Select Committee on Happiness and Public Policy Outcomes has had two hearings this year.
Lobbyist and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.
Derek Kirk, photo by Capitol WeeklyDerek Kirk’s greatest strength, according to the Gallup Strengthsfinder test, is WOO, or “winning over others.” In Kirk’s short but impressive career, this judgment rings true.
Image via iStockAs readers might anticipate, there are extensive rules of punctuation when drafting legislation in California. First, as a general bill drafting guide, the rules of English grammar, including punctuation, usually apply to legislative drafting.
CIRM CEO Jon Thomas. Photo by CIRM. Jonathan Thomas, the man just named as the new CEO of the $12 billion California stem cell agency, could borrow an old line from Mark Twain. Reports of his “demise” were greatly exaggerated.
Jeff Walters, photo by Capitol WeeklyWhether state senators are discussing legislation, leading a press conference, or giving a presentation, official Senate photographer Jeff Walters is often called on to capture the scene. He is one of the most recognizable faces at the Capitol and has taken photos of just about everybody, from Paris Hilton to the Dalai Lama.
CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: Today we introduce a new series of interviews with the 2026 California gubernatorial candidates. First up, California gubernatorial candidate Betty Yee. Yee boasts two decades of public service, beginning with a stint on the Board of Equalization and followed by two terms as California State Controller (2015-2023). Yee announced her candidacy for California governor in March 2019. We spoke with her in May about her campaign, about the 2024 elections, and what unique perspectives she brings to the race.
Image via APOn both January 3 and July 3 of the 2024 California Legislative Session, the State Assembly Floor Sessions were disrupted and temporarily recessed by protesters in the Gallery. This has raised the question whether there are any laws available to preclude this disruptive behavior.
US presidential election illustration 2024, image by RafmasterANALYSIS – During this week’s back and forth about the future of the Biden nomination, California Congressman Mark Takano cited low Biden polling in his Inland Empire district as a reason for Democrats to find an alternative presidential nominee for November. While using the Takano poll as a benchmark could be causing California members of congress, and Democratic nominees, some considerable headaches, this poll may not be a perfect benchmark.
Lobbyist and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.