Political Scandal–Is it the Culture, Leadership or is that the Way it Always Was?
“Nowadays, people think ‘House of Cards” is a documentary.” John Pitney, Claremont McKenna College professor. Professor Pitney’s quote in the Los Angeles Times was BEFORE the arrest of Sen. Leland Yee on corruption charges. He was referring to the conviction of Senator Rod Wright and the indictment of Senator Ron Calderon. Three Democratic state senators […]
Looking from the Inside Out as Gov. Schwarzenegger’s Speechwriter
During the 30 years I worked for newspapers, I twice had the opportunity to spend time inside one of the institutions reporters cover from the outside looking in. In 2001, I took a year leave of absence from the Sacramento Bee and was allowed to be a fly on the wall inside the Sacramento District […]
Questioning Sen. President Steinberg’s Leadership
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” – Martin Luther King Jr. Much has been written and will be written about the now-unsealed indictment of State Senator Leland Yee. Much has been written and will be […]
Why are D.C. Politicians Sweet on California?
Dear Washington, D.C., I know that your politicians will say anything to get elected and your wonks are perpetually grasping at straws. But I find it hard to believe how many people in your town are saying that I, the great state of California, am some sort of model for you and the country you […]