A ballot just lately discovered what I discovered after writing a brief op-ed final month asking for some goodwill from individuals leaving California: A lot of America has polluted our state, and plenty of Republicans actually do not like us In line with the ballot, practically half of Republicans assume California is “not likely American,” which is a a lot nicer method of expressing the profane sentiments that many individuals included of their emails discussing my publish.
In response to The Occasions’ article this week in regards to the ballot, many readers dismissed the criticism as politically motivated, whereas others eagerly rose to California’s protection. I suppose we have gotten so used to listening to the parting insults from opportunistic politicians and departing neighbors (in any case, we have misplaced about 800,000 residents since 2020) that our response is able to go.
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To the editor: Oh, California. You remind me of the lovable cheerleader who usually asks, “Is my hair okay?” or, “Are you certain my ass appears to be like good in these shorts?”
It is February and I am strolling within the solar with a light-weight sweater on. The mountains seem as I head downtown to see a play.
Positive, many Republicans say California is “not a great place to go to,” however they have been right here. They actually wish to be Californians as a result of we’re cool and we all know what is going on to be cool.
And my home simply appreciated one other thousand this month.
California, you’re lovely!
Cheryl Clark, Lengthy Seashore
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To the editor: In line with a ballot by the Canadian agency Leger, half of all American adults say California is in decline, and 48% of Republicans say it is “not likely American.”
What’s new? The Republicans are down on our state, however that’s largely as a result of they’re out of step with the societal norms of Californians. I am certain they’d have a distinct opinion if the Republicans had been in some way in political energy in Sacramento.
Given California’s dimension, I am not shocked we have now issues. To not beat a useless horse, however California’s financial system is the most important in the USA and the most important subnational financial system on the earth.
We’re totally different each by way of our financial system and the composition of our residents. So why is anybody shocked that all the pieces is not hunky dory?
Martin Parker, Thousand Oaks
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To the editor: For what function was your article on the vote revealed?
The information present that California just isn’t in decline. We now have the most important financial system of any state and one of many largest on the earth. Within the third quarter of 2023, California’s financial system grew at an annual price of 4.8%
The state works on its issues, be it water conservation, international warming or homelessness. We’re usually on the facet of spaciousness. We all know the advantages of recent residents, whether or not they come from one other state or nation. I would prefer to see how the remainder of the US would do with out us.
I’m upset that The Occasions has revealed this text.
Isabel Rigney, Upland
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To the editor: Does anybody truly assume that Republicans not answerable for any a part of state authorities don’t have anything to do with the opinion of Republican respondents?
I’ve lived in California for 65 years. I’ve traveled extensively throughout the USA and internationally and have owned properties in North Carolina, Washington State, Hollywood, Lengthy Seashore and Orange County.
There isn’t any higher place to dwell than California. The range of our inhabitants brings the world to our doorstep. Basically, we’re all wonderful. There’s magnificence past perception. There’s leisure, jobs and excessive salaries for these with expertise.
Sure, housing is pricey. However once you purchase, maintain and finally promote, you acquire sufficient fairness to fund your retirement. Academics and public servants have extraordinary pension and well being advantages.
The California Structure provides ladies the appropriate to resolve what to do with their our bodies. I acquired a great training and have practiced legislation for greater than 35 years. Among the best locations for girls to reach life is California.
Carol Churchill, Los Alamitos
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To the editor: Might I ask if any such research has additionally been completed for different states?
When you requested the identical questions on Florida, would the numbers be fully flipped? Would Democrats specific the identical sentiments about Florida that Republicans expressed about California?
I believe.
California is an excellent state that’s forward-thinking and considers the well being and well-being of its residents in its insurance policies and legal guidelines. I’m completely satisfied to dwell on this state.
Stephen Mirkin, North Hollywood
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To the editor: I used to be taking part in golf the opposite day with somebody who had left Idaho. He had adopted his kids, who additionally left Idaho.
He could not imagine we had been taking part in golf on a fantastic, sunny day in February. He mentioned the transfer was among the finest issues he had ever completed.
Those that bash California neglect that it is likely one of the largest financial drivers on the earth. The disgruntled who go away California will all the time be disgruntled wherever they go.
California is gorgeous, vibrant, wholesome and stuffed with alternative.
Hector Hernandez, San Clemente