News & Views
How do you testify before the U.S. Congress, pitch a news story, run a business, show up in your community, fund a campaign, and still find time for Italian meatballs?
You learn to prioritize—and you learn to tell the truth. These posts are my take on what’s happening right now and the reinvigoration that came when I finally made time for myself. Explore the categories below—I’d love to hear from you.
How Dick Cheney Helped Shape My Public Service
I was sad to learn today of the passing of former Vice President Dick Cheney. Many people don’t know that he was a Chief of Staff to the President at age 34, making him the youngest person ever to hold that position. After that, he was a Congressman from...
Six Bones for California Businesses – Explaining Governor Newsom’s Healthcare Vetoes
In spite of my disdain for Proposition 50 and its projected $285 million taxpayer cost, it’s important to recognize the times when Governor Newsom gets it right—especially when it benefits California businesses.A few weeks ago, I wrote about health care...
🍿 Broadway to Breakdown — NYC's Mayoral Race – The Inside Story Driving the Government Shutdown
I was born and raised in Cortland, New York—a city in Upstate New York where the cows used to outnumber the people.Where I grew up is nothing like New York City, which boasts Radio City Music Hall, Broadway Musicals, the New York Yankees, Saturday Night Live,...
Will Leaders Heed the Ghosts of Shutdowns Past?
It was 1995 during the Holiday Season in Washington, D.C. The halls of Congress were quiet, but tensions were high behind closed doors. I was working on Capitol Hill and remember it well.It was the government shut down of 1995 – 1996 – the first since...
The Darkness of Charlie Kirk
It’s taken me several days to find my voice.Many days of crying—for a young man I never met, gunned down in the prime of his life. For a country unraveling in front of our eyes. For a world where hate now feels more real than hope.Yes, I’ve been...
It’s time for lawmakers to prioritize health care affordability
Small and mid-sized businesses are the backbone of the Bay Area economy. From local restaurants and tech startups to home health providers and construction firms, these businesses create jobs, fuel innovation and strengthen our communities.A big part of that...