Successful businessman, activist, and philanthropist, and 2026 candidate for governor of California Stephen J. Cloobeck applies an unflinching problem-solver’s eye to America’s most pervasive challenges.

Cloobeck built his reputation transforming dysfunctional companies at the brink of ruin into performance powerhouses. In Facing Hard Truths, he focuses this proven business acumen on our most pressing concerns like immigration, crime, the cost of living, and the coarsening of political discourse. He offers sometimes tough—but always sincere—lessons learned over a lifetime of public and private sector experience.

From his first job bussing tables in a small California restaurant, to his time operating a global hospitality juggernaut, to helming federal public-private partnerships, state agencies, and local organizations, Cloobeck’s journey propelled him from busboy to boardroom. In this book, he relies on the action-oriented principles that drove his personal success to outline a plan that will take California, and America, from flailing back to flourishing.

With a refusal to pander and a no-nonsense assessment of today’s most salient issues, Cloobeck argues our country’s ability to effectively navigate the future depends on a reaffirmed commitment to:

• Integrity
• Collaboration
• Respect for rules and norms
• Economic inclusivity
• A return to competence
• Putting others first
• Fostering of social trust

In Facing Hard Truths, Cloobeck’s engaging storytelling and straight-shooting proposals leave readers feeling heard, respected, and above all, eager to set aside political differences and get back to what really matters: creating an America that is more affordable, liveable, and opportunity-rich for all.