A year after Glen Stailey became president of California’s Correctional Peace Officers Association (CCPOA) in 2019, he expressed a desire to wield significant political influence in Sacramento. Since then, CCPOA, representing 26,000 state prison guards, has ramped up its political spending, notably directing $2.9 million towards Governor Gavin Newsom, which accounts for 31% of the union’s political spending since 2001. This shift contrasts with the union’s past relationships with previous governors like Arnold Schwarzenegger, who clashed with the union over raises.

Under Stailey’s leadership, CCPOA contributed $1.75 million to Newsom’s anti-recall campaign in 2021 and an additional $1 million in support of Proposition 1, Newsom’s mental illness treatment and housing plan, which narrowly passed. The union’s increased spending aligns with concerns about its waning influence as California’s prison population has decreased significantly over the years. Despite Newsom’s efforts to close prisons, he deferred further closures this year due to budget deficits and declining inmate numbers.

CCPOA’s substantial financial backing of Newsom’s initiatives underscores the union’s priorities. Their influence extends to state legislative races as well, evidenced by their significant financial involvement in campaigns targeting certain politicians. The union has been recognized for securing favorable contracts for its members, like a recent $1 billion raise over three years and unique state-funded retirement benefits.

Criticism has been raised against the union’s hefty spending, with concerns about adequate justification for the raises, especially when the state faces budget challenges. Questions have also been raised about the union’s power dynamics in Sacramento, particularly regarding its influence on decisions related to prison closures and operational policies within the correctional system.

As trends indicate a decline in California’s prison population, and CCPOA navigates shifting political landscapes, debates arise over the union’s status and tactics. The union’s controversial strategies have led to confrontations with lawmakers and advocacy groups pushing for reforms within the correctional system. This dynamic illustrates the evolving dynamics between CCPOA, state politicians, and advocacy organizations regarding California’s correctional system.