California’s “Progressive Fiscal Values”
In endorsing Proposition 15 that would raise property taxes on commercial property, Governor Gavin Newsom used an unusual turn of phrase when he said the measure was “consistent with California’s progressive fiscal values.” Exactly what are California’s “progressive fiscal values?” Well, let’s see using statistics compiled by the Tax Foundation. The top income tax rate […]
The California Supreme Court Makes Local Democracy Even More Dysfunctional
The California Supreme Court just made local democracy in California even more dysfunctional. And that could end up being a very good thing. You may have read about the case I’m talking about. The court declined to hear an appeal of a lower court decision that allowed a simple majority of voters, rather two thirds, […]
State auditor blasts UC for admitting unqualified students based on wealthy connections
A stinging report issued by California’s state auditor today slams the University of California for a culture of privileging wealth and access over merit in its admissions process, galvanizing concern that talented low-income students and students of color are displaced by less qualified but better connected students. The audit report found that four UC campuses […]
You Too Can Attend a Global Forum on Direct Democracy on Tuesday
For 12 years, I’ve been putting on Global Forums on Modern Direct Democracy, to look at initiative and referendum around the world, and how California stacks up. The forum has spun off a very handy global database on direct democracy and the International League of Democracy Cities. But to attend one of these events, you […]