From what I’ve seen, the right’s version of a CA split involves one or at times even multiple “states” in the rural areas (Central Valley, etc) and yes, you’d expect those to go Republican, but a simpler split of North/South or based on major metro regions (San Diego, LA, San Francisco) with maybe one hat tip to a rural area would be a net win for the left. (albeit at the expense of the economies of scale and integration we get as a single entity). Last time this conversation came around, we got to hear about the absurdities of splitting the San Diego/LA region (neighbors on the two sides of a street on county boundaries would be in different states, yeah that would be functional… )
So personally, I’m not a fan of splitting, but if done strategically to address the current rural dominance I would probably say “maybe” but I think a more sensible approach to address the underlying problem would be to educate a few more states on how much the current madness is hurting them personally, then have them sign on to the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (queue John Lennon singing “you may say I’m a dreamer…”):
Yup, absolutely. Central California wouldn’t exist in its current form without the massive influx of H2O and handing control of that over to a different state, centered on those “librul hippies” in San Francisco, would be the kiss of death for them.
I believe Justice Kagan made exactly the correct response. She has no vote in the Senate, and I’m sure she has her own opinions of Kavanaugh, but best if she keeps them to herself for now.
This whole thing has been depressing. If the Republicans cared one bit about this country, they would acknowledge the fire they started the moment they denied Merrick Garland a hearing or even meeting with him. It’s clear they intend to let it all burn down and will do nothing to heal the country. They must be wiped out electorally and never permitted to get a foothold on government ever again.
True of the courts in general. Courts have no enforcement arm. They can’t send troops in to make you do what they say. They can hold you in contempt, of course and impose sanctions, but those are both very awkward tools. How do you enforce the sanctions?
The effectiveness of court judgments and decisions as a whole relies on the confidence of the community.
Moreover, if there’s no confidence, then why go to the courts to settle your disputes? This whole debacle is an invitation to increased chaos.
Oh sweet, I’m glad to hear it. It’s one time I’m happy to be wrong. And yes, they need a major shot of publicity if none (or very few) of US has heard of them.
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