An elected Orange County CEO could become one of the most powerful politicians in California, overseeing an annual budget of $10 billion and offering local elected leaders an instant springboard to higher office, a chance to be mentioned as a future governor or U.S. Senator.

In recent years, county supervisors have consistently moved to strengthen the county CEO by consolidating powers around auditing, procurement, investments and human resources into the CEO’s office.

Yet nearly every local elected official, party official or union leader that I’ve interviewed about this reform is afraid of the notion.

It’s the one thing they all seem to agree on, which makes me wonder.

Why are virtually all power brokers in OC troubled by the idea of a countywide elected official who is directly acco

See Full Page