Why is the Commonweal Institute located in California?

The long-term strategy division of the Commonweal Institute is located in California so that it will not be unduly influenced by the day-to-day pressures of Washington, D.C. When fully operational, the Commonweal Institute will have offices both in Washington, D.C., and in California.

Day-to-day operations and the central office of the Commonweal Institute will be located in Washington, D.C., close to the offices of the Federal government and those of many other moderate and progressive think tanks. However, the long-term strategic planning and fund-raising functions of the organization will be located in California. The principal reason is that the Commonweal Institute is an organization for the country as a whole; it must have roots and a continuing presence outside of the nation's capitol city. The high-pressure atmosphere of Washington, and the never-ending influence of the legislative calendar, would make it difficult to engage in long-term planning in a reflective manner.

The Commonweal Institute is incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Washington, D.C., and is qualified to transact intrastate business in California.

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