Simon Davis-Cohen

Simon Davis-Cohen is a journalist and editor of the Ear to the Ground newsletter, an exclusive “civic intelligence” service that mines local newspapers and state legislatures from across the country.

High school students work the polls

How Progressives Can Make Change on Election Day—No Matter What Happens With Congress How Progressives Can Make Change on Election Day—No Matter What Happens With Congress

Thirteen ballot initiatives that could raise wages, ban fracking, protect immigrants, and house the homeless.

Nov 5, 2018 / Cities Rising / Simon Davis-Cohen

Voting ballot box

The Most Important Ballot Measures of 2018 The Most Important Ballot Measures of 2018

Amid the din of election activity, don’t forget the power and potential of the ballot initiative.

Oct 24, 2018 / Simon Davis-Cohen

Andrew Gillum Campaigning

As Governor, Could Andrew Gillum Set Florida’s Cities Free? As Governor, Could Andrew Gillum Set Florida’s Cities Free?

As mayor of Tallahassee, Gillum launched a campaign against state suppression of local democracy.

Aug 30, 2018 / Simon Davis-Cohen

GDB Puerto Rico

Meet the Legal Theorists Behind the Financial Takeover of Puerto Rico Meet the Legal Theorists Behind the Financial Takeover of Puerto Rico

Two lawyers argue that the feds should impose “dictatorships for democracy” on cities and government bodies in fiscal crisis.

Oct 30, 2017 / Simon Davis-Cohen

Footage of the Largest Gang Raid in NYPD History Reveals the Agency’s Military-Style Tactics

Footage of the Largest Gang Raid in NYPD History Reveals the Agency’s Military-Style Tactics Footage of the Largest Gang Raid in NYPD History Reveals the Agency’s Military-Style Tactics

Incoming police commissioner James O’Neill oversaw the arrests.

Sep 1, 2016 / Simon Davis-Cohen

Why Is It Illegal to Export American Oil?

Why Is It Illegal to Export American Oil? Why Is It Illegal to Export American Oil?

Some companies want the ban dropped.

Jun 4, 2014 / Editorial / Simon Davis-Cohen

Why Are Fracking Hopefuls Suing a County in New Mexico?

Why Are Fracking Hopefuls Suing a County in New Mexico? Why Are Fracking Hopefuls Suing a County in New Mexico?

Mora County is challenging legal doctrines that privilege corporations and Big Carbon.

May 12, 2014 / Simon Davis-Cohen

Youth Are Taking the Government to Court Over Its Failure to Address Climate Change

Youth Are Taking the Government to Court Over Its Failure to Address Climate Change Youth Are Taking the Government to Court Over Its Failure to Address Climate Change

With little precedent for climate change litigation, youth turn to the public trust doctrine.

Apr 25, 2014 / StudentNation / Simon Davis-Cohen and StudentNation

LA City Council Tells Big Oil To Frack Off

LA City Council Tells Big Oil To Frack Off LA City Council Tells Big Oil To Frack Off

As residents complain of nosebleeds and headaches, the country’s biggest oil-producing city moves to ban hydraulic fracturing.

Mar 27, 2014 / Cities Rising / Simon Davis-Cohen

Foster Youth Win an Important Victory in Oregon

Foster Youth Win an Important Victory in Oregon Foster Youth Win an Important Victory in Oregon

Foster youth are leading the fight for public child welfare services.

Mar 7, 2014 / StudentNation / Simon Davis-Cohen and StudentNation

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