Activist claims California needs to split to save rural voices from blue state neglect

In California, Paul Preston has been advocating for the establishment of a separate state that would detach rural counties from urban areas dominated by left-leaning politics. His movement, known as the New California State, responds to the perceived neglect of rural citizens by a legislature controlled by the Democratic Party. Preston describes the current political climate as a 'tyranny' due to the overwhelming power that Democrats hold, which includes control of the state legislature and the governor's office. He argues that the needs of rural residents are consistently disregarded in favor of policies favoring urban centers such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. Preston's proposal includes a new map that would encompass nearly all of California's 58 counties while excluding specific urban regions in Los Angeles County, parts of Sacramento County, and parts of the San Francisco Bay Area. He acknowledges that the proposed map is not final and may require adjustments before any official separation could take place. Preston has expressed optimism regarding congressional support for his initiative, noting that they have been received positively, even by some Democrats. The movement is fueled by various grievances, including rising crime rates attributed to liberal policies and the escalating cost of living that has prompted many residents to leave the state. Recent reports indicate that the homeless population in major cities has increased to approximately 180,000, despite significant governmental spending aimed at addressing this issue. James Gallagher, the Republican leader in the California State Assembly, has publicly stated that he finds merit in Preston's proposal and believes that the idea of two separate states warrants consideration. Gallagher's comments reflect a sentiment among some California residents that their needs are vastly different depending on their geographical location. In light of these developments, Preston has remained hopeful, despite acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead, including the complexities of secession. His activism highlights ongoing frustrations among rural Californians who feel unrepresented in a system that they believe prioritizes urban interests over their own. As discussions surrounding the proposal gain attention, the feasibility of creating a new state remains a contentious topic, indicative of broader political divides in California society. The future of the New California State movement has yet to be determined, but it has sparked conversations about representation, governance, and the viability of state boundaries in an evolving political landscape.