California’s Leadership Crisis Amid Housing Challenges

California stands as America’s most populous and inventive state. Yet, it grapples with significant challenges, chiefly a severe housing shortage. Expectations for dynamic leaders to address these issues may not be fulfilled soon.

Recently, voters faced a lackluster array of candidates in the governorship race. As votes are still tallied, it appears the November choice might be between these three: Xavier Becerra, former Health and Human Services secretary; Steve Hilton, ex-Fox News host backed by former President Trump; and Tom Steyer, a billionaire striving for public office.

The question arises: why don’t Californians have better candidates? The electorate influences the options they receive. Californians sometimes acknowledge the need for state change yet resist implementing significant alterations. Many seem indifferent to the prolonged vote-counting process.

The silver lining is the consensus among these candidates that California needs more housing. They aim to facilitate construction by lowering costs and cutting regulatory hurdles. Conservatives, moderates, and progressives alike understand this necessity.

Governor Gavin Newsom, while agreeing with this consensus, struggles to revitalize construction in California. It’s not merely a question of his competence. The root issue lies with voters who support local policies that hinder development, despite advocating for housing at the state level.

Since Newsom took office, California’s population declined, contrasting with a 4 percent national population growth. If this trend continues, the 2030 census might result in California losing four congressional districts as residents move elsewhere seeking affordable living.