Spotlight on California

A MapLight analysis of campaign contribution data from the California Secretary of State shows that contributions to committees opposing California's Proposition 29 (Cigarette Tax) have raised nearly $40 million in contributions, more than any independent expenditure committee at the federal level except the Pro-Romney "Restore Our Future" Super PAC. To put things into perspective, a MapLight analysis of the most recent data available from the Federal Election Committee shows that Romney's "Restore Our Future" has raised $52 million, "American Crossroads" has raised $28 million, and Obama's "Priorities USA Action" has raised $9 million. To view a spreadsheet of itemized contributions to Super PACs that have raised over $5 million please click here.

A MapLight analysis of campaign contribution data from the California Secretary of State shows that a recent contribution of $500K from New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg raises the total for committees supporting California's Proposition 29 (Cigarette Tax) to $8.5 million. Committees opposing California's Proposition 29 have raised nearly $40 million.

 The nonprofit, nonpartisan Voter Guide was made possible in part by a grant from the James Irvine Foundation.

MapLight announces the launch of a new Voter Guide, available in both English and Spanish, profiling California's ballot propositions. The MapLight Voter Guide provides journalists and voters with a snapshot view of each proposition's summary information—what a 'YES' or a 'NO' vote would mean, the projected financial impact of the proposition, campaign arguments by proponents and opponents—and campaign finance data—money raised for and against a proposition and a top 10 list of contributors for and against. In coming weeks the Voter Guide will be expanded to include endorsements, news, editorials, and advertisements. Read more here.

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Below is a table of initiatives and referenda currently in circulation (but not yet qualified for the ballot) as of January 11, 2012, compiled by the California Secretary of State.

Sep 12, 2011 - The California Senate voted down a bill (AB 375) last week that would have made it easier for hospital workers to collect workers compensation for certain ailments including blood-borne illnesses. Republicans were united in opposition to the measure, and just enough Democrats joined them or did not vote for the bill to fail.