For California, Brighter Days Are Ahead
California is more than just the largest state in the union, it is the world's fifth largest economy and a powerful bellwether for cultural and political trends. When more than 4 million voters went to the ballot box on October 7th with change on their minds, they sent a clear message to the country and the world. Californians voted to turn the state around, and they chose Arnold Schwarzenegger to get the job done. They also rejected the negative politics that have characterized our elections in recent years.
While I did not initially support the effort to recall Governor Davis, it became obvious that the people of California wanted a serious change for our state. I enthusiastically embraced the candidacy of Governor-elect Schwarzenegger and am proud that he earned the support of the voters. I believe his leadership skills, fiscally responsible proposals, and optimistic vision for the future is what got him elected. I believe those same qualities will make him a successful governor.
For too long, the economic engine of California has been stifled by taxes and regulation. Additionally, the state has far outspent its means creating a huge deficit. While it will not be easy, Schwarzenegger has pledged to change that. For starters, he has initiated an audit of the state budget to see where waste and fraud is occurring and savings can be found. He also wants to repeal the tripling of the car tax in order to ensure Californians have more of their own money in their pockets. This will help stimulate economic growth and job creation. He will also be bringing a fresh approach to business in Sacramento, reaching across the aisle and making a good faith effort to working with members of both parties on important issues such as workers compensation, health care, and continued education reform.
As Schwarzenegger said on night of his election, "For the people to win, politics as usual must lose." Given the way politics has been used in Sacramento in recent years, I believe he's right. I look forward to working with the new Governor from Washington and in California to create a brighter future for generations of Californians to come.
