Slowly, but surely, there is change in public policy and politics. Look at the passage or defeat of ballot measures in 2024. More tax increases and bonds were defeated. Prop. 36 was passed with 70% of the vote—to increase punishment for crimes. We are looking at the passage of Voter ID in 2026.
“Californians are growing more suspicious of Sacramento’s spending binge. A whopping 55% now opt for lower taxes and fewer state services, a turnabout from pre-2023 trends toward increased taxation. This stance, supported by 86% of Republicans and 62% of independents, stems from dissatisfaction with the state’s $11.9 billion budget shortfall, described as a “big problem” by 43%. Disinclination to borrow $7.1 billion from the Rainy Day Fund (56% find it a bad idea) is a demand for responsible budgets, forcing leaders to be more accountable with funds.
Distrust in Government Waste
Faith in government is eroding at an alarming rate. A staggering 90% believe the federal government wastes tax dollars, and 84% say it operates for a privileged few special interests. In California, support for Governor Gavin Newsom hovers at tepid 44%, while the legislature registers 41%. Backing for shrinking the federal government (57%), especially Republicans (91%), signals a plea for efficiency. Voters want leaders who cut waste, not those who perpetuate bloated government.”
Now, those numbers need to be translated into electoral victories. Can we do that?
California’s Silent Fiscal Conservative Revolution
New Statewide Voter Survey Reports Growing Demand for Fiscal Restraint and Limited Government
Jon Fleischman, Flashreport, subtract, 6/14/25 https://www.sodoesitmatter.com/p/californias-silent-fiscal-conservative?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=4841705&post_id=165801194&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=dx6bs&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email
The Public Policy Institute of California’s (PPIC) June 2025 Statewide Survey, conducted from May 22 to 29, documents a state suffering under economic uncertainty and growing distrust of the government. Surveying 1,591 adults and 1,080 likely voters, the survey is a growing call for fiscal restraint and limited government—ideals that strongly resonate with those seeking wise leadership in times of hardship.
A Call for Fiscal Discipline
Californians are growing more suspicious of Sacramento’s spending binge. A whopping 55% now opt for lower taxes and fewer state services, a turnabout from pre-2023 trends toward increased taxation. This stance, supported by 86% of Republicans and 62% of independents, stems from dissatisfaction with the state’s $11.9 billion budget shortfall, described as a “big problem” by 43%. Disinclination to borrow $7.1 billion from the Rainy Day Fund (56% find it a bad idea) is a demand for responsible budgets, forcing leaders to be more accountable with funds.
Distrust in Government Waste
Faith in government is eroding at an alarming rate. A staggering 90% believe the federal government wastes tax dollars, and 84% say it operates for a privileged few special interests. In California, support for Governor Gavin Newsom hovers at tepid 44%, while the legislature registers 41%. Backing for shrinking the federal government (57%), especially Republicans (91%), signals a plea for efficiency. Voters want leaders who cut waste, not those who perpetuate bloated government.
Economic Uncertainty Gives Rise to Change
Economic pessimism casts a long shadow, with 75% anticipating difficult financial times to come for California—this is the highest level recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic. Half wrestle with inflation, and 41% identify housing as a burden, especially renters (63%) and low-income workers. As 60% say the state is on the wrong track, opposition to Medi-Cal expansion for illegal aliens (58%) signals a movement toward supporting priority core services.
A Cautionary Note
Not everything comports with a conservative movement. Liberal social stances are supported by majorities: 72% legal abortion, 73% same-sex marriage, and of course, in this blue state, there are low levels of support for President Trump (29%) and lukewarm support for his tariff policy (27–36%) indicate that conservatives will need to focus on economic and fiscal matters to gain traction.
So, Does It Matter? A Way Forward for Republicans
Finally, both parties receive a warning: 58% of respondents have an unfavorable opinion of Democrats, and 71% of Republicans, with 74% yearning for a third major party. However, this survey illuminates a way forward for the GOP to make itself more attractive. By embracing fiscal discipline—seen in the 55% who yearn for lower taxes and the 57% who support a smaller federal government—Republicans can address voter discontent with waste and deficits. Emphasizing responsibility and economic aid, such as easing housing and price pressures, offers a chance to appeal to a willing state for reasonable leadership, paving the way toward greater popularity.
