Elevate California is a vehicle to mobilize California residents in support of common-sense policies - by working with the California legislators.

California is the 4th largest economy in the world and characterized by awe-inspiring geography, innovative ideas, and the promise of economic opportunity for all who work hard. Yet, residents across the state feel California is at a crossroads.

California’s laws and public services can serve residents better – particularly lower income earners who depend on the state for healthcare, public education, the courts, state parks, and are deeply affected by the lack of affordable housing. Some taxpayers are leaving (or not coming to) California because they find it hard to start/grow businesses and see limited positive outcomes for their investment in state taxes.

It is time for a new, common-sense voice advocating for more opportunities for the future.

How did we get here? For more than 50 years special interest groups (energy, gaming, real estate/construction and healthcare industries, public and private sector unions as well as some social interest groups) have engaged purposefully with state legislators on a narrow set of issues that benefit their constituents. This makes sense.

What doesn’t make sense is that ordinary citizens and many small businesses have not effectively engaged in state politics and have lacked a proactive “general interest” organization to advocate on their behalf when legislators consider action on over 2500 bills annually.

While legislators are elected by all residents, most lobbying and financial support comes from special interest groups. In 2021-2022, special interest groups contributed at least 75% of the $250 million spent in the 120 state legislative races (40 state senators and 80 state assembly members).

The rest of us need a seat at the table – to advocate for quality of life, financial opportunity, and a place where people want to build their lives and businesses as part of a thriving and inclusive economy.