I normally try to keep my commentary partisan-free and focus on policy arguments and facts. But the 2016 election is right around the corner and some partisan tough talk and reality checking is needed.
First, California Democrats are looking increasingly likely they’ll win back legislative super-majorities. Regardless of your ideology or political affiliation, absolute one-party rule is ripe for terrible policymaking with detrimental consequences – even if that party’s leaders have the best intentions.
Republicans must not be turned off by the top of ticket and be sure to vote down ballot. Independents and even moderate Democrats should consider what outcome in Sacramento would best advance rational, well-thought-out policies (hint: having an opposition with even the smallest amount of power). Send back to the Assembly Catharine Baker, David Hadley, Young Kim, Eric Linder, and Marc Steinorth. Give Jordan Cunningham a chance and promote Ling Ling Chang and Scott Wilk to the State Senate. These are all pragmatic thinkers who want the best for California and are willing to work with others to make it happen.
Second, California Republicans need to realize that their flirtation with super-minority status has more to do with their actions (and inactions) than that of the Democrats. Yes, California Democrats have unlimited resources thanks to their union allies, but Republicans have failed, repeatedly, to adapt to the new California and make a compelling case to Californians for why they have better ideas.
In a two-party system, both parties must be as broad and big as possible. That’s math. That’s reality. Politics is just like any other market. If voters aren’t buying what you are selling, either you adjust or you go out of business. And state policy is far too consequential for one major party to not exist. Don’t forfeit an entire new generation of Californians because you refuse to admit the state isn’t the California of Reagan or Wilson anymore. Examples are out there proving that Republicans in blue states can achieve legislative and statewide victories: New Mexico, Wisconsin, Washington, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, and Oregon.