Digital Democracy

Republican Assemblymember Carl DeMaio, a newcomer to the California Legislature, wants to retake power from Democrats with his unapologetically brash, Trump-inspired conservatism. So why do so many Republican insiders dislike him?

California Senate leader reappointed Sen. Susan Rubio as chair of the insurance committee, despite her possible link to a federal bribery probe. Rubio denies wrongdoing, and no charges have been filed against her

California passed a set of bills to expedite LA wildfire recovery funds as part of an extended special session called by Gov. Gavin Newsom in response to Palisades and Eaton fires.

A person matching Democratic Sen. Susan Rubio’s description is accused in federal court documents of soliciting bribes and illegal campaign contributions. Rubio, who’s not been charged with a crime, denies the allegations, but she’s no longer chair of the Senate Insurance Committee as investigations continue

After winning a costly legislative battle last year, California’s casino-owning tribes have sued their rivals in the gambling business. Cities could lose money if the tribes prevail in court.

The increase in lobbyists means there’s now at least one lobbyist for every legislative staff member.

Californians who purchase a clunker car in 2025 face a confusing year as new lemon law rules take effect and the state Supreme Court limited warranty protections for used vehicles. Lawmakers are revisiting the rules, but consumers could see weaker protections until new laws are passed.

California’s card room industry spent over $3 million targeting four lawmakers as payback for their votes on a gambling bill. Three of the lawmakers lost.

Few bills fail in the Legislature because lawmakers publicly vote “no.” Instead, most bills die when they are shelved, without lawmakers having to take tough votes.

Reflecting concern about too many bills, Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas lowered the number legislators are allowed to introduce.