While conspiracy theorists are busy spinning tall tales that make good radio copy, Proposition 1A is actually pretty simple. Prop 1A allows voters to either place a spending limit in the state constitution by voting yes or to reduce the tax increase from four years to two years through a no vote.  This was my first opportunity to vote on a real spending cap, and I voted for it then just as I would today.

There are no taxes in Prop 1A.  I opposed the tax increase, argued against the tax increase, and voted against the tax increase, which was a bill separate from Prop 1A.  But without putting Prop 1A on the May ballot, voters would be stuck with four years of higher taxes and no limit on state spending.  That's the worst of both worlds.

I'm not a part of Assembly Leadership so I did not negotiate the deal.  But not including a spending cap would be irresponsible and leave the door open for the Democrat majority to push through more tax increases in the future.

In the Assembly, both Democrat and Republican leaders voted in support of a budget that included increased income, sales, and vehicle taxes.  Republicans who supported the tax increases made their choices as individuals.  While I disagree with their decisions, I will defend their right to act as both a representative and a leader of their Assembly districts.  Constituents can judge their performance in the normal election cycle.

Democrats have controlled the State Legislature for the past 14 years.  I wish there had been more effort in past years to combat the reckless spending and program expansions during that time.  In the meantime, I'll be working to oppose higher taxes, create spending caps, and cut wasteful spending.