2026 has become Californias crucial election year

It looks like 2026 will be a watershed year in California politics.There is an open seat for governor, which has drawn a large field of candidates.In a twist of fate, the fact that there are so many big-name Democrats in the running means that it is possible two Republicans could squeak into the general election.That means voters have viable alternatives — not just on Nov.3, but in the June 2 primary.Other offices are also wide open, including insurance commissioner and school superintendent. These races feature interesting candidates — and colorful characters.There will also be several controversial ballot initiatives.Two are particularly important.One is the so-called “billionaire tax,” which is really a seizure of wealth that will try to force the state’s wealthiest residents to part with 5% of what they own.Many of California’s billionaires have already moved away, taking their wealth with them — as well as the ordinary income taxes they pay, and on which the state relies.The billionaire tax has already been a fiscal disaster.

It may also be unconstitutional, under the Takings Claus of the Fifth Amendment.Regardless, the billionaire tax appears to be gaining popularity.When it first was proposed, some polls suggested it had low support.But a new poll by UC Berkeley’s Institute of Government Studies (IGS) suggests that a majority of voters support it, and that it leads by a nearly 20-point margin.The other major ballot initiative is on Voter ID.Polls suggest that voters from both parties, and every racial and ethnic background, support the idea of showing ID at the polls, in theory.But Democratic Party leaders have long opposed it, claiming — falsely — that voter ID suppresses minority voters.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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