With my deep experience in policy making, academia and business, and a strong belief in the values of fiscal responsibility, transparency, and independence, I believe I have the background to successfully serve as California’s next State Controller. After earning four degrees from Harvard University, including a law degree and doctorate in political science, I served in senior roles in both Republican and Democratic presidential administrations, working directly on fiscal issues like Social Security and health care. I have been a highly sought-after voice on fiscal policy issues for many years and my commentary has appeared in major newspapers across the country and on television networks in the US and around the world.

My approach is decidedly non-ideological, and pragmatic, while my personal background demonstrates success in working with leaders from all parts of the political spectrum. I have experience leading large teams across multiple sectors. I believe in leading by example, delegating where appropriate, and working closely with experts within and outside of government to ensure we are instituting best practices. I do not believe in silos on the teams I lead, and will foster an inclusive and respectful environment in the State Controller’s office. I lead by example, demonstrate the work ethic I expect of those who work with me, and keep my team organized and on the same page. At the same time, I find the strengths in my team members and give everyone an opportunity to thrive in their individual roles.

As Chair of the State Board of Equalization, Malia works to provide tax relief for Californians reeling from the pandemic, while holding corporations accountable for paying their fair share. She also cut wasteful spending and launched a Property Tax Modernization Initiative to ensure that the state administers property taxes more efficiently and fairly.  

On the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, she led efforts to divest the city’s pension fund from fossil fuels, oversaw the adoption of an $11 billion budget as Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, and fought to increase the minimum wage. She also served as President of the San Francisco Employee Retirement System (SFERS), where she helped manage the $22 billion fund, successfully passed a soda tax that generated more than $14 million in revenue to help fund public health measures in San Francisco, and served as Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, which oversaw appropriation ordinances, bond issues, taxes, fees, and other revenue measures

Malia was born and raised in San Francisco and attended public schools in the City. She earned a BA from Fisk University and a Master’s in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University. She’s running for Controller to build a fairer, more equitable California for all.