On the eve of Election Day, many Los Angeles voters interviewed by the California Post expressed support for both a proposed billionaire tax and voter identification requirements, indicating a crossover in political leanings often associated with opposing parties. These two measures, Proposition 40 (a one-time 5% tax on the net worth of California billionaires) and Proposition 39 (requiring government-issued identification for in-person voting or specific ID number for mail-in ballots), are among the more divisive on the state's ballot.
Artist Sandy Weiner stated her support for the billionaire tax, asserting, "Let them have it. They deserve to be taxed." She believes billionaires "are not paying their fair share" and that the revenue should fund public services like healthcare and education. When asked about potential billionaire exodus from the state, Weiner responded dismissively, "I don’t give a crap. Let them leave."
Weiner also views voter ID requirements as "common sense," noting, "I always show ID anyway. What’s the problem?"
Nikki Paige, a creative director, echoed the sentiment for a higher tax on billionaires, suggesting the percentage should increase with the billionaire's wealth. She believes voter ID would enhance election security, but added, "there also needs to be easy access to acquiring an ID."
Patricia Greenberg, a wellness educator, also supports both propositions. She feels individuals with significant wealth have a "responsibility, both morally and civilly, to give back to the community," with funds directed toward social services, particularly healthcare. Greenberg dismissed concerns about billionaires relocating, stating, "I think most people aren’t just going to pick up and leave over a bill."
Regarding voting, Greenberg said she is "in favor of" voter ID, emphasizing its role in ensuring transparency. "I think that’s a valid request to make sure people are on the up and up when they’re voting, absolutely," she said.
Supporters of the billionaire tax estimate it could generate tens of billions of dollars, primarily for healthcare, to counteract potential federal cuts to Medi-Cal. Critics, however, warn of businesses and wealthy individuals leaving the state, which could diminish California's tax base.
Proponents of voter ID legislation argue it would help prevent fraud and bolster confidence in election integrity. Opponents counter that voter fraud is already rare and that such requirements could disenfranchise eligible voters.