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2026 Economic Outlook for Los Angeles

Like no time in the history of Southern California, we are witnessing a decline in population of a scale that is due to have both economic and political ramifications. In surveys and interviews, those leaving the area say that the reasons are mostly economic: cost of housing, lack of jobs, and cost of energy.

What’s ahead for the US, California, and Los Angeles economies? And what’s at stake in the upcoming election? Join us for a clear-eyed economic forecast, a deep dive into the defining issues voters will face in November, and a closer look at Southern California’s critical land-use pressures.

In this fast-moving seminar, experts from across disciplines will explore the challenges facing growth in Los Angeles and identify potential solutions to the city’s most pressing policy issues. Dr. Christopher Thornberg, noted economist and founding partner of Beacon Economics, will present a new forecast for the California economy.

All attendees will receive fact sheets outlining the presentations’ key findings and takeaways.

Online registration closes 24 hours prior to each event date. Be sure to reserve your spot early, as space is limited!

Event Details

Wednesday, October 7, 2026

4 pm - 7:20 pm

California Club

538 Flower Street, Los Angeles

Cost: Regular $75; Early Bird Pricing (until 9/20): $50

For more information about this event, please email sppevents@pepperdine.edu, or call 310.506.7490. 

 

Event Speakers


 

barger

Kathryn Barger

LA County Board of Supervisors

Anish Saraiya

Anish Saraiya

Director of Altadena Recovery, County of Los Angeles

Tracy Hernadez

Tracy Hernandez

Co-Founder and CEO of New California Coalition

Jemal

Tim Jemal

CEO of Supply Chain Federation & CREDA SoCal

Korinkie

Robb Korinke

Co-Founder and Principal of Grassroots Lab 

Peterson

Pete Peterson

Dean of Pepperdine's School of Public Policy

Shnur

Dan Schnur

Political Analyst, Speaker & Communicator, Dan Schnur Politics

Thornberg

Chris Thornberg

Founding Partner of Beacon Economics

Fred Sutton

Fred Sutton

Senior Vice President, Local Public Affairs, California Apartment Association

 

 

 

Schedule


 4:00 PM – Registration & Networking
                  Complimentary appetizers, along with selection of beer, wine, and soft drinks, will be offered.

4:30 PM – Welcome & Opening Remarks 

4:35 PM – Keynote Remarks - Kathryn Barger, LA County Board of Supervisors

4:50 PM – Election Narratives and Economic Realities: The Outlook for 2027 

5:40 PM – Panel #1: California Housing Measures Explained: What's on the Ballot, and Why It Matters 

6:30 PM – Panel #2: Housing in California: Policy, Politics, and the Path Forward 

7:15 PM – Closing Remarks 

7:20 PM – Optional Post-Event Networking 
                 Complimentary dessert, coffee, and tea service will be served.

 

Conference Sponsors


 

beacon logo

Business logo

 

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