A new ballot measure in California aims to put the possibility of secession on the 2026 ballot, a concept that local activist Marcus Ruiz Evans, who has led the ‘Cal Exit’ movement since 2015, strongly advocates for. This movement responds to widespread dissatisfaction with the U.S. federal government. According to Evans, California could function like a nation, comparing it to Canada, which has a strong economy and a significant degree of autonomy. He believes Californians should engage in a ‘democratic conversation’ regarding independence, citing that a staggering 56% of voters support discussing the possibility of secession.
The initiative’s focus is to gather enough signatures to qualify for the upcoming statewide ballot, setting a target of 570,000 valid signatures to be submitted by July 2025. The urgency of this movement has been heightened by political tensions, particularly during former President Donald Trump’s tenure and potential return to office in 2024. The demands for a ballot measure are not just driven by local ideologies but also reflect the sentiments of a segment of Californians who feel disenfranchised by federal policies.
Trump recently commented on the situation, expressing that he ‘never thought I would see California go to this extreme,’ indicating the rising political divides within the country. Proponents of the measure believe that the secession could lead to better governance and alignment with Californian values, separate from the perceived failures of federal jurisdiction. The movement emphasizes the distinct lifestyle and economic strength of California, which many argue could thrive independently.
The discourse around the proposal has sparked debates among political analysts and citizens alike, with responses varying from enthusiastic support to outright skepticism. As the timeline toward the 2026 ballot approaches, the ‘Cal Exit’ movement is poised to continue drawing attention.
