From the desk of:
Ingrid Lake
CFRW President
May 6, 2026
Welcome to this week’s SPARK
Spotlight, Positivity, Action, Reflection, and Knowledge
PRESIDENT'S WEEKLY SPARK
Action Starts Here: Two Races. Two Nights. One Powerful Opportunity.
If you’ve been asking, “What can I do right now?”—this is it.
We have two critical Distinguished Speaker Series events this month—focused on statewide offices that directly impact our daily lives and the future of California.
On May 11th, hear from candidates for Insurance Commissioner—a role responsible for regulating the insurance industry in California, approving rates, and protecting consumers. This position has never been more important. Across our state, families and businesses are facing the reality of insurance companies pulling out, rising premiums, and, in some cases, being unable to secure coverage at all. Understanding how this office influences availability, affordability, and accountability is key—and this is your chance to hear directly from those who want to lead that effort.
Then on May 19th, join us for a conversation with candidates for Lieutenant Governor of California. While often overlooked, this role carries significant influence. The Lieutenant Governor serves on key state boards and commissions—impacting decisions related to land use, higher education, and economic development—and steps in as acting governor when needed. It’s a position that helps shape policy behind the scenes and plays a critical role in the direction of our state.
These events are more than informational—they are your opportunity to be prepared, informed, and confident heading into the upcoming elections.
And here’s the best part—these events are completely free for CFRW members. This is just one of the many valuable benefits of being part of CFRW, NFRW, and your local Republican Women Federated club: direct access to candidates, real conversations, and opportunities to stay informed and engaged.
So here’s the ask:
Register. Show up. Invite someone to join you.
Because informed members become effective leaders—and action starts with showing up.
PRO TIP: Don’t skip the underlined text! Each link opens the door to valuable resources, connections across our Federation, and simple next steps to help you take action.
SPARK in Practice:
Set aside 10 minutes each week to review club emails and updates. Staying informed prevents things from piling up.
From Insurance to Lt. Governor— Be Informed
As your 3rd Vice President, I want to personally encourage you to take advantage of these upcoming Distinguished Speaker events. These are exactly the kinds of opportunities that strengthen our federation—keeping us informed, connected, and ready to lead. With important statewide races ahead, there’s no better time to engage, ask questions, and hear directly from the candidates. I hope to see you there!
Please plan to join us at each of these special events in May to better inform your vote in the Primary in June and the General Election in November. The more we know about all the statewide candidates, the more we can talk to other Republicans to get them out to vote in EACH election!
Make plans now to join us this Monday, May 11 as CFRW welcomes candidates for California Insurance Commissioner as part of our Distinguished Speaker Series.
All Republican candidates were invited, and we’re pleased to host those who were able to confirm their availability for this important conversation. This is a critical statewide office that affects every Californian—especially now, as so many are facing challenges with insurance availability, rising premiums, and limited options for coverage.
The Insurance Commissioner is responsible for:
Regulating California’s insurance industry and enforcing state laws
Approving or denying insurance rate changes
Protecting consumers and investigating complaints
Ensuring insurance companies remain financially sound to pay claims
Leading oversight during disasters and insurance-related recovery efforts
Licensing agents and companies operating in the state
This is your opportunity to hear directly from the candidates, gain insight into their priorities, and come ready with questions as we head toward the Primary election.
Don’t just stay informed—be part of the conversation!
There will be a Q&A session, so if there are questions you have for the candidates, please send them ahead of time to me, your CFRW 3rd Vice President, Bibi Mesmer.
Keep the momentum going on Tuesday, May 19 as CFRW hosts candidates for California Lieutenant Governor as part of our Distinguished Speaker Series.
All Republican candidates were invited to participate, and we look forward to hearing from those who were able to join us for this important statewide conversation. While this role may not always be in the spotlight, the Lieutenant Governor plays a vital part in shaping policy, influencing key decisions, and stepping in when leadership is needed.
The Lieutenant Governor is responsible for:
Serving as Acting Governor when the Governor is out of state
Sitting on key boards and commissions overseeing higher education, land use, and natural resources
Helping guide decisions impacting the UC and CSU systems
Serving on the State Lands Commission, managing California’s public lands and coastline
Casting tie-breaking votes in certain state boards and commissions
Supporting economic development and statewide policy initiatives
This is your opportunity to hear directly from the candidates, gain insight into their vision, and come ready with questions as we head into the Primary election.
There will be a Q&A session, so if there are questions you have for the candidates, please send them ahead of time to me, your CFRW 3rd Vice President, Bibi Mesmer.
Your leadership and engagement are the heartbeat of this organization. Thank you for continuing to show up, stay connected, and take action. The difference we’re making together is powerful—and it’s only just getting started!
Copyright (C) 2026 California Federation of Republican Women. All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you are a member of the California Federation of Republican Women.
Our mailing address is:
California Federation of Republican Women
428 J St Ste 400
Sacramento, CA 95814
USA

