Amber Maltbie Discusses Unique Donor Network Setup in California

Amber Maltbie was quoted in the CalMatters article “Force multipliers: How one donor network is pushing the envelope on California campaign money.” The article examines the ability of Govern For California – which has 18 chapters in the state – to amplify the influence of its donors on state politics and government due to its unique structure. To date, in the 2022 election cycle, the group has donated more than $3 million to more than 110 candidates.

The chapter setup has led some experts to question whether it’s a way for its donors to not be subjected to contribution caps. But state campaign finance regulators have approved the chapter set up, giving Govern For California the green light to establish its network of chapters, each subject to its own campaign contribution limit. Permission was granted with the condition that “all local chapters are controlled by different individuals, who independently direct and control the entities’ respective contributions.”

Commenting on the group’s structure, Amber expressed, “This is totally different than anything I’ve seen before, and it’s very creative. It’s a very creative way to maximize electoral strength.”