California’s Problems Worsened in 2023

Commentary California’s political defects continued to damage the state in 2023. On the budget, Gov. Gavin Newsom began the year projecting a budget gap of $22.5 billion for fiscal year 2023–24, which began on July 1. The budget passed by the Legislature grew the deficit to $31.5 billion. And in December, the Legislative Analyst projected an even larger deficit of $68 billion for fiscal 2024–25, which begins next July 1. Despite warnings on all fronts, the Legislature and governor kept spending and spending. Now, as 2024 approaches, they’re going to have to deal with a stagnant economy unable to generate the revenue needed for their spending sprees. Mr. Newsom himself was distracted most of the year with speculation President Biden might drop out of the race. That would provide an opening for him to enter the Democratic primaries or, more likely, be appointed by the Democratic National Committee as its nominee. Mr. Newsom’s debate with Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, an announced candidate for his party’s nomination, tickled the hearts of some Democrats....