☆ Coupal: a pivot to collectivism might devastate California
What does this November’s election say about where the state is going? As part of an Opportunity Now exclusive series, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association President Jon Coupal warns that a move toward even higher taxes and regs could further hollow out the middle class. He says an electorate so under informed by California’s struggling school system only perpetuates the downward spiral:
It seems to me that voters are confronted with a choice of doing the least amount of damage by rejecting tax increases and fringe candidates, or by fully embracing collectivism. By collectivism, I would prefer to avoid the pejoratives of “socialism” or “communism” although those terms may be accurate.
The problem with the latter is that it will only accelerate the already troubling demographic trend of so many people moving out of state. The wealthy and the ultra-wealthy tech community will always find California attractive as they are rarely concerned about the cost of milk or a gallon of gas. The very poor enjoy California’s robust safety net which is far more generous than in most other states. But it is the middle class that is most hurt by California’s high cost of living, excessive taxation, burdensome regulations, and poor governance. It is no wonder that so many have moved to better run states.
These troubling demographic trends will catch up to California after the 2030 census when it is on track to lose at least 4 representatives in Congress.
Underlying almost all of California’s problems is the fact that our education system is failing to prepare children for adulthood. California was one of the few states to turn down “free money” from the federal government to adopt a scholarship program. (Even New York, although as progressive as California, rightfully realized that the program would provide new opportunities for parents and their kids). Without a proper education, we can hardly expect young people to become informed voters. And that’s the biggest tragedy of all.
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