The Benedetto Files

Craig Benedetto — the lobbyist who outlasts every mayor

The most-documented fixer in the database. Working through California Strategies & Advocacy, LLC, Craig Benedetto has lobbied 23 different San Diego elected officials across both parties (2012-2025) for 52 development, hospitality, and short-term-rental clients — while personally giving $66,319 across 61 committees, including hedged donations to all sides of the 2012 mayor's race. His client roster (Cisterra, FS Investors, Airbnb) runs straight through the city's signature land-use fights.