What Would Legislative Democrats Do With Two Thirds?
Improbably, I find myself living in the midst of the most interesting State Senate race in California. The Pasadena contest between Democrat Anthony Portantino and Republican Mike Antonovich. It’s not an easy choice. I know, like and respect both men. Portantino has been a reform-minded legislator, a good local mayor, and a very friendly accessible […]
May I Have Your Autograph: Celebrity Culture & Consumer Protection
As someone who needed an explanation for the word “Brangelina” this week, I’m not sure I’m the most qualified to comment on a new law meant to protect against fake celebrity autographs. While we live in a society that seems overexposed to celebrity culture, we also live in a state in which entertainment and celebrity […]
Prop 55, a Gamble the High Rollers will Do Well
Proposition 55 on this November’s ballot would extend income tax rate increases for twelve additional years. In 2012, voters approved Proposition 30, which established marginal tax rates as high as 13.3% through 2018. At the time, the tax increase was presented as an emergency measure needed to address the state’s fiscal crisis. But now that this […]
Can Hillary Clinton Rescue her Candidacy?
This is turning out to be the presidential race many wish had not occurred. The most talked about issue seems to be the unfavorable ratings of the two principal candidates rather than which one can do the most to better the human condition. Neither Hillary Clinton nor Donald Trump can take much comfort from the […]