Skip to content
Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento podcast artwork

PODCAST · news

Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento

by Sheehy Strategy Group

As principal and founder of Sheehy Strategy Group and former Chief Deputy Director of the California Department of Finance, Tom Sheehy is recognized as one of Sacramento’s most experienced and influential lobbyists, as well as a fiscal expert.Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies.Learn more at https://sheehystrategygroup.com

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Apr 8, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. California’s Economy: Big on Paper, Struggling in Practice

    California remains one of the largest economies in the world. But that headline obscures a more concerning reality: the state’s economy is no longer delivering broad-based growth, upward mobility, or stability for its residents. #caleg #cagov #cabudget Sheehy Strategy Group

  2. AB 1898 (Schultz): Well-Intentioned, but Unworkable Workplace AI Proposal

    As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the modern workplace, policymakers are right to consider guardrails that promote transparency and fairness. However, AB 1898 (Schultz), which seeks to regulate workplace artificial intelligence tools, ultimately misses the mark. While...

  3. California at a Crossroads: Facing Hard Truths to Restore the Golden State

    California has long stood as a symbol of , and upward mobility. Yet today, a number of troubling indicators show that the Golden State faces serious structural challenges that demand urgent attention....

  4. California’s State Appropriations Limit (Gann Limit)

    California’s State Appropriations Limit (SAL)—commonly known as the Gann limit—is a constitutional cap on how much tax revenue the state government can spend each year. The rule was created by voters through California Proposition 4 (1979), largely championed by anti-tax activist Paul Gann. It…

    more
  5. SEIU Wealth Tax Impact on State Revenues

    Newsom’s budget assumes continued stability at the very top of California’s tax base. Reality check: proposals like the SEIU wealth tax are already prompting income, investments, and jobs to leave the state. Learn...

  6. A Revenue Surge Doesn’t Change the Bigger Budget Picture

    Since I recorded a Point of Order podcast with Assemblyman Josh Hoover in early January, recent state General Fund revenue updates from the Legislative Analyst’s Office have understandably reignited that discussion. The non-partisan LAO now estimates that near-term General Fund revenues could be...

  7. The Real Story Behind California’s “Trump Slump” - Budget Woes

    Despite Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature declaring, during this year’s May Revision, that the state was suffering from a “Trump Slump” — supposedly causing a significant revenue loss — President Donald Trumphad nothing to do with what state officials themselves have described…

    more
  8. Sheehy Testifies on Local Control Before Assembly Education Committee

    Sheehy Strategy Group Principal Tom Sheehy recently testified before the Assembly Education Committee, warning that proposed election changes would impose costly state mandates and undermine local control. Learn more: 👉...

  9. SB 249 and Local Control of Elections

    SB 249 is an example of the state blatantly stepping all over local control of county elections. California’s local governments should be in charge of how they elect their own county supervisors, city council members, and education board members. The state has no business coming in and trying to...

  10. Do You Need a Lobbyist in Sacramento? Here’s What You Should Know

    Is hiring a lobbyist in Sacramento worth it? Tom Sheehy of the Sheehy Strategy Group breaks down what makes lobbying in California so complex — and why experienced advocacy can be the key to advancing your public policy goals. Whether you're pushing legislation, protecting your interests, or...

  11. Sheehy Testifies on Local Control of Elections - SB 249 (Umberg)

    In this podcast, Tom Sheehy testifies before the Senate Appropriations committee hearing on SB 249 by Senator Tom Umberg. Sheehy talks about the importance of local control and how cities and counties should have the ability to determine how local boards are elected, should not be micromanaged by...

  12. What is the role of California's Governor?

    Sheehy Strategy Group is excited to introduce a new explainer video breaking down the role of California’s Governor. The Governor of California is the state’s chief executive officer, responsible for overseeing the executive branch and implementing state laws. Watch our video to learn more about...

  13. What is the role of California's Lieutenant Governor?

    Sheehy Strategy Group is excited to introduce a new explainer video breaking down the role of California’s Lieutenant Governor. As the state’s second-highest executive, the Lt. Governor serves as acting governor when needed, helps shape economic development and higher education policies, and has...

  14. What is the role of the California State Board of Equalization?

    Check out our latest explainer video, in which we delve into the critical role of the California State Board of Equalization. The BOE's primary responsibilities include ensuring uniform and fair property tax assessments across California's 58 counties. The BOE ensures counties adhere to property...

  15. What is the role of California's Attorney General?

    In our latest explainer video, Sheehy Strategy Group highlights the role of California’s Attorney General, the state’s chief legal officer. The Attorney General, currently Rob Bonta, oversees the Department of Justice, enforcing state laws and defending California in legal matters. Beyond law...

  16. California Legislature Faces Another Historic Turnover as 34 Lawmakers Set to Depart

    The California Legislature wrapped up its session on August 31, but significant changes are on the horizon for the upcoming term. Following the November 5 elections, up to 34 new members could join the Legislature in December. Eight Assembly members, including Reggie Jones-Sawyer, Chris Holden…

    more
  17. California's Superintendent of Public Instruction

    Check out our latest episode breaking down the crucial role of California's Superintendent of Public Instruction. Learn about the responsibilities of this nonpartisan office, from overseeing the California Department of Education to guiding policy implementation across the state's public schools....

  18. Seismic Resiliency: Understanding ACR 151

    As California braces for future earthquakes, it’s crucial to focus on more than just structural integrity. In this latest episode, Tom Sheehy explains how Assemblymember Lisa Calderon’s ACR 151 promotes nonstructural seismic resilience—addressing essential components like piping, wiring, and HVAC...

  19. What is the role of California's Secretary of State?

    Check out our latest episode, in which we delve into the critical role of the California Secretary of State. As the state’s chief elections officer, this office ensures the integrity of elections and manages key responsibilities like corporate filings and the state archives. Learn more about the...

  20. Unpacking SB 907: Is Senator Newman's Legislation Partisan Political Maneuvering?

    Join Tom Sheehy as he dissects SB 907, Senator Josh Newman's legislation targeting the Orange County Board of Education. Sheehy scrutinizes the bill's proposal to expand the board and alter election timing, noting concerns about partisanship and democratic principles. Sheehy questions SB 907's...

  21. What is the role of the California Insurance Commissioner?

    Watch our latest explainer video to discover the multifaceted role of the California Insurance Commissioner — a position currently held by Ricardo Lara. From overseeing insurance companies to addressing consumer concerns, the Commissioner is elected to ensure fair and transparent insurance…

    more
  22. What is the role of the California State Controller?

    Discover the pivotal role of the California State Controller's Office in managing the state's finances and fostering economic stability. Led by Democrat Malia M. Cohen, the Controller oversees a myriad of financial functions crucial to the world's fifth-largest economy. Learn about the…

    more
  23. What is the role of the California State Treasurer?

    Discover the pivotal role of the California State Treasurer's office in our latest explainer video. Established in 1849, the Treasurer oversees the financial helm of the world's fifth-largest global economy. Led by Ms. Fiona Ma, the Treasurer ensures fiscal responsibility and economic prosperity,...

  24. What is the California DGS Procurement Division?

    Dive into our latest explainer video, as the Sheehy Strategy Group sheds light on the pivotal role played by the California Department of General Services (DGS) Procurement Division. Managing the state's hefty $12 billion annual expenditure on goods and services, this division streamlines...

  25. Fall 2023 State Budget Update

    California's state government revenues pose an unprecedented challenge. With personal income tax revenue shrouded in uncertainty due to IRS deadline extensions, budget writers lack crucial data. October revenue totals were $24 billion below predictions, but the full picture remains elusive. As…

    more
  26. Why California Is Really Difficult for Small Employers

    During a recent panel discussion with SacTown Talks, Tom Sheehy, Principal and Founder of Sheehy Strategy Group, said that while the Legislature claims to be fighting for small businesses, they are actually doing more harm than good. Case in point: In September 2020, the California Legislature...

  27. Some Leave Mandates Actually Hurt California Employees

    California’s Legislature doesn’t understand the costs associated with extended leave bills. When small businesses are required to offer 12 weeks of protected leave, they often have to hold positions open, eliminate positions, or raise prices to cover their costs. Ashley Hoffman, Policy Advocate…

    more
  28. What is the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO)?

    In our ongoing explainer video series, the Sheehy Strategy Group unravels the significant roles played by California's key governmental agencies. Our latest video delves into the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO), an essential nonpartisan agency that provides objective fiscal and policy analysis...

  29. What is the California Department of Finance?

    In our new explainer series, the Sheehy Strategy Group delves into the essential functions of California's governmental bodies. This episode takes a closer look at the California Department of Finance (DOF), where SSG Principal and Founder Tom Sheehy served as Chief Deputy Director. This state...

  30. Single-Payer Healthcare Would Create Unimaginable Government Bureaucracy

    When Tom Sheehy, Principal and Founder of Sheehy Strategy Group, thinks about single-payer healthcare, the first thing that comes to mind is the “DMV.” Imagine the same government that’s in charge of the DMV being in control of your healthcare. If the government takes control, businesses that...

  31. Digital Advocacy: The Future of Lobbying in California and Beyond

    Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms have permanently changed how political advocacy gets done in California and around the nation. If you are going to influence the California Legislature, you better be active on Twitter and have your issues properly framed for...

  32. 2023 Legislative End-of-Session Highlights

    In a new video released by the Sheehy Strategy Group, Tom Sheehy provides a sobering overview of key business legislation that emerged from the recently concluded first year of California's two-year legislative session. As Sheehy points out, the session witnessed the introduction of a staggering...

  33. Meet the Sheehy Strategy Group

    The Sheehy Strategy Group is a leading government relations, lobbying, and public strategy firm based in Sacramento, California. Led by Tom Sheehy, a highly experienced and influential lobbyist, the firm excels in achieving effective public policy and regulatory outcomes. Leveraging the power of...

  34. Procurement Opportunities in Sacramento, California

    For the Sheehy Strategy Group, navigating the complex state and local government procurement process and requirements is second nature. We help structure our client’s procurement business using California's Small Business (SB) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) designations where...

  35. Tom Sheehy Testifies on Need for More AB 5 Fixes

    Tom Sheehy testifies before a U.S. Commission on Civil Rights advisory panel regarding the civil rights implications of California’s #AB5 legislation. Other panelists included AB 5 author Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu, and Assemblyman Kevin Kiley. The…

    more
  36. The Dangers of Overzealous Regulatory Enforcement Agencies

    Tom Sheehy, principal and founder of Sheehy Strategy Group, in testimony before the California Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights warned against the dangers of overzealous regulatory enforcement agencies like the Employment Development Department (EDD). EDD is known in some...

  37. After Decades of Historic Growth, California Faces Chronic Stagnation

    By Tom Sheehy Ever since California became a state 173 years ago in 1850, every time there was a census taken the population of this great state grew larger. Indeed, for most of the 20th and 21st centuries, California led all states in the country in population growth. The state’s economy has…

    more
  38. Understanding the Impact of AB 764 on California Local Government Redistricting

    By Tom Sheehy AB 764—legislation recently introduced by Los Angeles Assemblyman Isaac Bryan with the aim of enhancing transparency and accountability—has reignited the discourse surrounding California's redistricting procedures for local government entities. Former Assemblyman Bonta, who now…

    more
  39. Does the State of California Have a $40 Billion Budget Deficit?

    By Tom Sheehy California is now starting to approach about a $40 billion budget deficit. Of course, it's unfortunate but true that revenue forecasters are usually behind the curve when we're going into a recession, which means that a $40 billion budget deficit may be the best-case scenario. The...

  40. Governor Newsom May Revise 2023

    By Tom Sheehy On Friday, May 12, 2023, Governor Newsom released his revision to the state budget he first unveiled in January. When Governor Newsom provided his budget to the Legislature in January, it was intended to solve a $21.5 billion budget deficit. The deficit was a shock following last…

    more

Type above to search every episode's transcript for a word or phrase. Matches are scoped to this podcast.

Searching…

We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.

No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.

Showing of matches

No topics indexed yet for this podcast.

Loading reviews...

ABOUT THIS SHOW

As principal and founder of Sheehy Strategy Group and former Chief Deputy Director of the California Department of Finance, Tom Sheehy is recognized as one of Sacramento’s most experienced and influential lobbyists, as well as a fiscal expert.Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies.Learn more at https://sheehystrategygroup.com

HOSTED BY

Sheehy Strategy Group

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento have?

Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento currently has 40 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento about?

As principal and founder of Sheehy Strategy Group and former Chief Deputy Director of the California Department of Finance, Tom Sheehy is recognized as one of Sacramento’s most experienced and influential lobbyists, as well as a fiscal expert.Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government...

How often does Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento release new episodes?

Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento has 40 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento?

You can listen to Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento?

Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento is created and hosted by Sheehy Strategy Group.
URL copied to clipboard!