digital democracy
Coverage of digital democracy in the Nexus archive.
- Meet the maverick California lawmakers who buck their party
Randy Villegas, a progressive college professor, defeated Democratic Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains in a primary election, advancing to face Republican U.S. Rep. David Valadao in the general election. Bains, known for occasionally voting against her party, lost support due to her moderate stances compared to Villegas' progressive views. Republican Assemblymember Juan Alanis continues to vote according to his conscience despite risks of primary challenges from right-wing opponents.
- Most California lawmakers never buck their party. These few do
Most California lawmakers rarely vote against their party, but a few mavericks, including Assemblymember Greg Wallis, occasionally defy party lines. Wallis, representing the 47th Assembly District, broke from his party 8% of the time, influenced by his competitive district. Challenges for moderates like Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains highlight growing polarization, with hard-line candidates winning primaries over moderates.
- State workers fight Newsom’s return-to-office mandate
Gov. Gavin Newsom's mandate requiring state workers to return to the office four days a week faces opposition as a Senate committee advances a bill to strengthen telework standards. The bill, authored by Assemblymember Alex Lee, aims to allow agencies to set their own policies and requires justification for in-office work. State worker unions, excluding public safety groups, support the measure, arguing remote work saves costs and improves productivity.
- The Board of Equalization has little power. Campaign donors still spent millions on it
The Board of Equalization, a California tax commission with minimal responsibilities, received over $3.3 million in campaign donations from lobbying groups and individuals, despite its reduced role. Donors supported lawmakers running for the board to maintain legislative influence and reward past support, with major contributions coming from labor unions and professional groups.
- Fixing digital democracy: from fragmented tools to a vibrant European Civic Tech Hub [Promoted Content]
Europe lacks connection in civic tech innovation despite existing advancements. A proposed European Civic Tech Hub aims to serve as shared infrastructure to promote interoperability, build trust through common standards, and enable cross-border sustainable participation among civic tech organizations, public administrations, and service providers.