California Republicans are starting to show their hand on
Proposition 32, the ballot measure that's branded as political reform but actually sharply limits union political spending while leaving giant openings for corporate spending. But as much as Republicans want voters in general to believe the political reform claims, they're so excited that they can't quite avoid giving away
the real plan:
California Republican Party Chair Tom Del Beccarro, who was elected partially on a platform of getting the CRP's fiscal house in order stated this explicitly:
"This November, Prop 32 could well pass, bring {sic} reforms to our system, including barring direct contributions from corporations and unions and paycheck protection. When that passes, California will have a more level playing field, Republicans will have a new day and be rather competitive statewide." (Newsmax)
That's pretty blunt: Proposition 32 is about reviving the California Republican Party. Yes, it bars direct contributions from corporations, which sounds like balance—but it
exempts Super PACs, which would still be allowed. Unions, meanwhile, would face newly erected barriers to raising money from their members for political spending. Spending that favors Democrats is cut, while spending that favors Republicans goes right on growing. And California Republicans know that's their big chance to dig themselves out of the giant electoral hole they're in.