Mauricio Torres Jr. (he/him/él)
Communications Director
Mauricio Torres Jr., Communications Director, ensures that the Budget Center’s values and vision for a just and equitable California remain central in public discourse. He collaborates closely with the Budget Center team to engage policymakers, advocates, and media, amplifying the organization's data and policy expertise to advance equitable policies for Californians historically excluded from the state’s prosperity.
Before stepping into his current role, Mauricio led the Budget Center’s digital strategy, overseeing the website, email program, social media, ads, and other digital platforms. Prior to joining the Budget Center in 2019, he worked with labor unions and green energy clients at Paschal Roth Public Affairs. Mauricio holds a master’s degree in strategic communication and public relations from Sacred Heart University and dual bachelor’s degrees in political science and communication studies from California State University, Sacramento (Stingers Up!). He also serves on the board of the Sacramento Lavender Library, Archives, and Cultural Exchange.
Mauricio is a proud Mexican-American and first-generation college graduate. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, practicing yoga, planning his next adventure, and listening to podcasts.
Recent posts by Mauricio Torres Jr.
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Press Release
House Budget Bill Would Strip Health Care and Food Assistance from Millions to Give Tax Cuts to the Wealthy
SACRAMENTO, CA — Following the passage of the House’s budget reconciliation package, the California Budget & Policy Center (Budget Center), a nonpartisan research and analysis nonprofit, weighed in with the following statement from its executive director, Chris Hoene. “Budgets are a reflection of our collective values. At their best, they are a tool to create …Federal Policy -
Update
State Leaders Can Avoid Harmful Cuts: Here’s How
Governor Newsom’s 2025-26 revised budget proposes significant, harmful cuts on California’s immigrant and low-income communities to address the budget shortfall, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Policymakers can raise revenues to avoid harming vulnerable Californians, who are also the target of federal leaders. They can, and should: Californians expect and deserve a bold …California Budget -
Press Release
Statement on Governor Newsom’s 2025-26 May Revision
SACRAMENTO, CA — Following this morning’s release of Governor Newsom’s 2025-26 revised budget proposal, the California Budget & Policy Center (Budget Center), a nonpartisan research and analysis nonprofit, responded with the following statement from its executive director, Chris Hoene: “The state budget should reflect the values of California’s people, who remain committed to supporting our …California Budget -
Update
10 Years of the CalEITC
Last year, about 3.5 million workers were able to claim the California Earned Income Tax Credit on their tax returns. Together with the Young Child Tax Credit and Foster Youth Tax Credit, the CalEITC put about $1.4 billion back into the hands of Californians with low incomes – money helping families cover essentials like food, … -
Update
Opening Doors to the Budget Process
The state budget is the foundation of policy decisions in California. Yet the process and opportunities to influence the state budget, one of the most critical aspects of state government, are complicated and challenging to understand. This makes it difficult for advocates, policymakers, and everyday Californians looking to make a positive change to influence the …
