Pursuing the ‘Minnie’ to the Max

It’s not as impressive as winning an Oscar or an Emmy, but when a state lawmaker wins a “Minnie,” you can expect to hear some crowing.

In its February edition, the California Journal, a monthly mag that covers state politics, unveiled the results of a poll of Sacramento lobbyists, lawmakers and staff members ranking state legislators on such qualities as integrity, intelligence, effectiveness and potential.

The winners are awarded a Minnie--the journal’s nickname for Minerva, the Roman goddess who adorns the state seal.

This year’s Minnie went to Assemblyman James E. Rogan (R-Glendale), who ranked at the top of the Assembly in the poll. On the day the edition hit the streets, Rogan issued a news release touting his distinction.

“I am honored and humbled to have been considered in this fashion,” he said. He added that he is the first Republican to rank at the top since the journal began the poll six years ago.

In the state Senate, Republican Tom Campbell, who was elected to Congress in December, was top dog.

The journal’s results, however, include a few caveats.

First, the magazine warns that the poll has recently taken on the trappings of an election, with lawmakers trying to get their staff and supporters to complete the survey.

And with the GOP in control of the Assembly, Republican members scored higher among staff and lawmakers than among lobbyists and the media.

For example, Assemblyman William J. “Pete” Knight scored 37% higher among staff than among lobbyists. He still ranked 68th overall out of 79 legislators.

Second, in the category of intelligence, the journal asks survey subjects:

“Who are the brightest members, regardless of how this gift might be used?”