Polls Show That Maybe Calexit Ain't a Bad Idea

 A recent poll indicates a surprising attitude among California voters regarding state funding and long-standing projects. Despite a history of failures, Californians appear to support continuing financial backing for initiatives that have not shown progress. This summary outlines the key findings related to Governor Gavin Newsom's policies, specifically about the high-speed rail project and healthcare for undocumented immigrants.

1. Support for High-Speed Rail:

• A poll shows that over 60% of Californians want to keep funding the high-speed rail project, despite its lack of progress over 17 years.

• The project has not laid any usable tracks, and federal funding has been significantly reduced, yet voters remain supportive.

• A partisan divide is evident: 21% of Democrats want to stop funding, compared to 62% of Republicans. However, most voters doubt its completion in their lifetime.

2. Healthcare for Undocumented Immigrants:

• The poll also reveals that 29% of voters support subsidized healthcare for undocumented immigrants, which is an increase from earlier support levels.

• California has broadened Medi-Cal coverage significantly during Newsom’s administration, but this has contributed to budget overruns, pushing the state deeper into debt.

• Despite a looming budget crisis, 13% of poll respondents favor rolling back Medi-Cal benefits for undocumented individuals, but this shows a slight decline from a previous number.

3. Economic Implications:

• The support for deepening financial commitments in light of the state’s fiscal difficulties raises concerns about the sustainability of such policies.

• The lack of accountability from voters regarding government spending and project outcomes suggests a troubling trend in California's political landscape.

• The expectation that other states will bail out California due to its financial mismanagement indicates a possible shift towards "Calexit," although a literal exit from the union is unlikely.

The findings from the poll indicate that many Californians continue to choose funding for high-risk projects and expansive healthcare policies over fiscal prudence, even amidst evident budget challenges. The ongoing support for such initiatives, despite historical failures, suggests a disconnect between voter sentiment and pragmatic governance. The consequences of these choices may lead to significant economic strain for the state and could bring about demands for support from less fiscally indulgent states in the future. The situation reflects a broader conversation about governance and responsibility in managing state resources. 

https://hotair.com/ed-morrissey/2025/08/22/polls-show-that-maybe-calexit-aint-a-bad-idea-n3806053