Elected officials and businesspeople alike tout the group's size and ambitious goals. They are trying to focus on the areas where there is consensus.
"We can get action on the things we do agree upon," said Tim McCallion, chairman of the chamber and an executive at Verizon. "When they see bipartisan support, that will help spur them into action."
Even though they were competing with Wednesday's visit to the White House by Pope Benedict XVI and a busy congressional calendar, the nonpartisan group was getting plenty of access, especially to the California delegation. At a midday rally, both Rep. David Dreier (R-San Dimas) and Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-East Los Angeles) cheered them for trying to get California its due.
Depending on their interests, attendees could choose to join one of 10 teams on issues including climate change and small business. The idea was to let people focus on issues most important to them.
Villaraigosa has actively campaigned for Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) since last year. Asked if his time in Washington makes him more likely to take an administration post if his favored candidate were to win, he said he was focused on running for reelection in L.A.
"I'd be honored to serve in a Clinton administration," he said, "but I love Los Angeles and the opportunity that Angelenos have given me as their mayor."
Villaraigosa is scheduled to meet with Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff this morning to discuss immigration and security. The large group will hear from Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and continue meeting with individual members of Congress.
"The investments we make today will pay dividends tomorrow," the mayor said.
--
james.hohmann@latimes.com
