Then There's California

As the 2025-2026 legislative session convenes, State Senator John Laird also begins his latest - and final - term in elected office! Senator Laird offers his outlook on the public policy priorities and 'gender equity' of the new session, Democratic policy priorities for 2025, and the legal guardrails the legislature is putting in place ahead of the incoming administration in Washington, DC. Click here for a closed-captioned version of this episode!

State Senator Susan Rubio & advocates share details about SB 1230, the STOP and Seize Illegal Tobacco Products Act, which will strengthen enforcement of California's flavored tobacco ban and remove illegal tobacco products from the market. SB 1230 has passed out of the legislature and awaits Governor Newsom's signature. Click here for a closed-captioned version of this episode!

After 25 years as a local and state lawmaker and an astonishing 115 (and counting!) bills signed into law in his legislative career, State Senator Bill Dodd leaves the senate this fall, attributing his collaborative approach to lawmaking, the hard work of his loyal team, and his willingness to listen, as keys to his success as a policymaker. Click here for a closed-captioned version of this episode!

On the occasion of the recent 'Willie L. Brown, Jr. Day' at the State Capitol, the legendary Assembly Speaker & San Francisco Mayor Emeritus joined State Senator Steven Bradford for a podcast conversation about the art of bipartisan politics, reparations & racism, their respective legislative legacies, and advice for current & future lawmakers who are standing on their shoulders. Click here for a closed-captioned version of this episode!

As Senator Anthony Portantino prepares to leave the legislature this fall, he speaks about how communication with constituents, family viewpoints - and the human condition - have continually informed his public policy priorities.