California Voters Reject Key Progressive Ballot Measures

Despite electing Democrats, Californians voted down initiatives on rent control, minimum wage, and prison labor reform.

• California voters approved Proposition 36, increasing penalties for theft and drug crimes, reflecting concerns over crime and public safety.
• Proposition 33, which aimed to expand rent control, was rejected by 62% of voters, marking the third defeat for similar measures in recent years.
• Proposition 6, intended to ban forced prison labor, failed to gain majority support, with voters prioritizing crime concerns over prison reform.
• Proposition 32, which proposed raising the state minimum wage to $18, was too close to call but faced significant opposition.
• Voters approved measures for funding climate projects, school facilities, and reaffirming same-sex marriage rights, highlighting selective progressive support.

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