Because it would pave the way for many other reforms, redistricting reform is the most crucial fix of all. State lawmakers who never have to fear losing their jobs never have to worry about doing their jobs. If an independent entity drew California's political boundaries – instead of the politicians in both parties who want all districts to be lopsided one way or the other – we would benefit from a much healthier, less polarized political climate in Sacramento.

Next month, as many as 10 million Latinos are expected to vote in the presidential election. They could have an especially strong impact in four battleground states: Nevada, Colorado, Florida and New Mexico. Despite what some political observers suggest, most of them will be thinking about more than just the immigration issue.

Fans and commentators often use shorthand to describe injuries to athletes – a strained anterior cruciate ligament is boiled down to “a knee injury.” If only the same rule of thumb were used for brain injuries – known by the vague term “concussions” – then maybe the National Football League would finally take them more seriously.