California's Economic and Social Challenges Intensify Amidst Prop 50 Victory

California is facing escalating economic and social challenges, including the nation's highest poverty rate and largest homeless population, even as voters approved Proposition 50. The measure, which passed with a significant majority, is expected to further consolidate political power, according to social commentator Kostas Moros. Moros, in a recent tweet, sharply criticized the state's governance, attributing these issues to "one-party rule."

Recent data indicates California's poverty rate, as measured by the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM), reached 18.9% in 2023, making it the highest in the nation. This figure, which accounts for the high cost of living, places California statistically tied with Louisiana and Florida for the highest poverty. The state's unemployment rate also hit 5.3% in February 2024, ranking as the highest nationwide at that time.

The state also grapples with the largest homeless population in the U.S., with over 187,000 individuals in 2024, and 45% of the nation's unsheltered homeless residing in California. This persists despite billions in state and local spending. Additionally, California's tax burden is among the highest, ranking fourth nationally with an 11% total tax burden as of March 2025, a figure that includes property, income, and sales taxes.

Other significant issues include California's gas prices, which consistently rank among the highest in the nation, often exceeding those in Hawaii. Housing affordability is another critical concern, with regulatory and tax burdens estimated to contribute substantially to construction costs. The state's literacy rates also remain a point of concern, with some reports indicating low performance despite considerable education spending.

Moros's tweet also highlighted other perceived failures, stating, "Continuing to free violent criminals from prison," and noting that "People leaving for other states for the first time in California's history." These claims underscore a growing sentiment of discontent among some residents regarding the state's direction and policies.