American Civilization

This new year, 2010, promises to be an important one for California.  In the November 2010 election, the state will select a new governor and decide on a U.S. senator.  In addition, there will be most likely  a number of initiatives on the ballot for voters to consider.  One possible area of the voter initiative process is to require California to hold a new constitutional convention. Many in the state think it’s time for California to hold a constitutional convention to correct some of the myriad problems here.

The last few years have not been kind to Califonia.  Much of the state’s infrasturture is crumbling – from transportation to water systems.  While California schools were once considered the best in the nation, today the schools are among the worst.  The system of higher education is facing the flight of talented academic and inadequate space for potential students. There’s not even enough room in prisons to hold those convicted of crimes.

A number of these problems result from what’s called « political gridlock » in the state legislature.  Both budgets and tax increases need a 2/3 majority to pass;  such a requirement gives the Republican minority (who do not support tax increases at all) an effective veto on most matters related to budgets.  And, while many in the state enjoy the direct democracy of the initiative system, it’s quite possible for voters to pass costly spending initiatives with no provision to pay for them.

So, California, known for its stellar entertainment and high tech industries, can proudly describe itself as the world’s eighth-largest economy.  But, the state is too broke to pay for services for its citizens since there’s no way to raise public monies.  One hope in this year’s election, is that a constitutional convention could eventually be held to solve some of these problems.  We’ll just have to wait and see….