User:Goldentrash/Calexit

Proposition 73, also known as the Calexit referendum, is a ballot initiative in which, on November 6, 20181, voters will be asked if California should seccede from the United States and become an independent republic. Californian secession has been a major topic in American political discourse since the surprising election of President Donald Trump in 2016. Democratic contender Hillary Clinton was the fifth person in US history to win the popular vote but lose the electoral vote. Pro-independence activists argue that the Electoral College does not adequately represent the wishes of the American voter, especially Californians, who overwhelmingly voted for Clinton. Cultural differences between California and the rest of the US states and conflicts between the California state government and the Trump administration on immigration are also cited as reasons for California to leave the US. "Yes California" has been the primary pro-independence campaign, led by its chairman Louis J. Marinelli. Marinelli previously supported the also-controversial Proposition 8 in 2008 before recanting his position. United California is the largest anti-independence action group, led by Susan R. Miller.

As of now, polls show Californians are split on the issue, with a slight lead given towards the "No" vote. Support for independence is significantly higher in Northern California where several secession campaigns are already based, primarily the State of Jefferson and Cascadia.

If the "Yes" vote wins, it will be the first time since the American Civil War that a state has attempted to leave the Union. The Supreme Court held in Texas v. White (1869) that unilateral secession is illegal, however, pro-independence activists hope that a "Yes" victory will be beneficial in obtaining consent from the United States Congress.

Background
On November 8, 2016, businessman and television personality Donald J. Trump was elected President of the United States, acquiring 302 electoral votes, defeating former Secretary of State and Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. Trump's victory was considered to be a massive upset as most polls put Clinton in a comfortable lead. Trump's controversial stances and the fact he did not win the popular vote, ignited protests across the United States. Californian secession, which had never before been seriously discussed, gained significant amounts of attention in the months following Trump's victory.