Day One!

This has been the most amazing experience of my life! Starting with a tour of the Capital building, learning about the history of California that has been uncensored. The art inside and out is breathtaking, rich with symbolism and the history of California. Curtis, our tour guide, also informed us of some of the shenanigans our Assembly have gotten into. This includes throwing fireworks and coins from the higher floors of the Capital a statue at the ground level.

                David Townsend provided us with a wealth of information! He explained what it was like to be the head coach of a campaign. It was interesting to hear how the politics works when trying to garnish enough bipartisan support. Considering his success rate on many propositions, I was very interested to hear his suggestions on how to organize and get my foot in the door. The cost of politics comes down to what he called the three M’s Message, Messenger, and Money. Money being a very important aspect seeing that the golden rule is that he who has the gold, makes the rule. On the way up to the Assembly floor, I attempted to take a group selfie in a super crowded elevator and accidentally leaned up against an alarm. It was hilarious once we found out what was causing the noise!

Then we were able to sit in on the Assembly, both while in and out of session. The resolution recognizing the Armenian Genocide for a week was humbling. To hear the stories and reflect on the depths the human psyche can devolve when left to its own accord. Who would have thought that Assembly Member Das Williams would give us a shout out to our class! It was great to listen to the assistant parliamentarian discuss the evolution of a bill and how it is processed through the Assembly. I was able to find the desk of Mr. Tim Donnelly, one day I may have the honor to add my name to the electronic vote board!

Brandon Morse April 7, 2014