May 5, 2008

And Steinberg too (probably)

In today’s Bee, I wrote about the growing trend of state lawmakers opening ballot measure accounts, particularly those legislators aiming for – or in – leadership positions.

Sen. Darrell Steinberg, the next leader of the state Senate, said in an interview that while he doesn’t control such an account yet, he likely will.

“Certainly when I become the leader and responsible for the election and reelection of my Democratic colleagues I am going to want all the legitimate tools at my disposal to do my job,” the Sacramento Democrat said.

Donations to ballot measure accounts, unlike reelection accounts, can be limitless.

“I’ve chosen to take part in this system because I believe I can do a whole lot of good,” he added, though he hardly endorsed the role of money in California's political system.

“Should the public be concerned about the link between money, politics and government? The answer is yes.”

Posted by Shane Goldmacher on May 5, 2008 10:30 AM