One election. 40 million residents. A $4 trillion economy. That’s what’s at stake in California.
The Big Story
Early results show Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton leading. Under California’s election system, the top two vote-getters move to the November general election, where California’s voters will choose the state’s next governor.
California is home to nearly 40 million people, the largest state economy in America, and about 1 in 5 immigrants living in the United States.
The Two Spins
From the Left
- California should continue using government programs to address housing, healthcare, and homelessness.
- Focus on building more affordable housing, expanding healthcare access, and funding programs to reduce homelessness.
From the Right
- California should focus on whether government has become too costly and ineffective at solving major problems.
- Focus on lowering costs, increasing accountability, and reducing regulations that make daily life more expensive.
What This Means for Us
California is the most populous state. Its economy is worth about $4 trillion a year, which accounts for $1 out of every $7 generated in the U.S. economy.
Because so many companies operate there, decisions made in California affect the products we buy, the prices we pay, and the jobs companies create.
How They Make Money
Walmart
- Walmart employs more than 300,000 people in California, making it the state’s largest private employer.
- About 90% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Walmart, giving the company enormous reach when labor, healthcare, or workplace laws change.
Takeaway
A company with 300,000 California employees pays close attention to who wins the governor’s office.
The Number That Stuck With Me
22%
California is home to about 22% of all immigrants in the United States.