By Roran Ausman and Emma Rodriguez
The federal election results are alarming and tragic. Clearly, the climate was not a top issue for most voters, and climate action on the national level may stall or even go backwards.
“Will we succeed in turning back the Trump tide and continuing to make progress on climate? I don’t know. But we definitely won’t if we don’t try.” Said Masada Disenhouse, our executive director, at our recent climate justice vigil.
SanDiego350’s work is far from over. We will ramp up efforts to lobby, educate, outreach, and organize as we fight for our future.
Locally, results are coming in mixed for the state and local ballot measures that SanDiego350 took positions on. We have results for 4 and are waiting on further results for 3 close races. Results are from the San Diego County Registrar of Voters.
To begin with, Measure G, the County of San Diego Measure for a half-cent sales tax to fund San Diego’s transit and transportation priorities, has not been called. As of Wednesday, November 12, the yes vote is at 48.79% (it needs a simple majority, 50%+1, to pass).
We worked hard across several years in support of this critical infrastructure initiative. Our region desperately needs the benefits of Measure G – leveraging federal dollars to build out transit and bike lanes, and reducing fares for youth, seniors and people with disabilities. And we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
“As a 17 year old, I can’t vote on the issues that matter most to me. I see Measure G and the coalition we’ve built as the first step toward public transit accessibility and reduced air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.” Says Elena Grilli of La Jolla High, “Working on this campaign was empowering. It’s shown me that youth, adults, and organizations working together can make a positive difference right here at home, and I look forward to continuing the movement!”
In good news, we are thrilled at the passing of Props 3 and 4, which will, respectively, enshrine same-sex marriage rights in the California Constitution and issue $10 billion in bonds to fund environmental projects.
Prop 3 is a major social justice victory, especially given the overwhelming show of support by California voters in the face of the national election.
Prop 4, the “Climate Bond”, will be especially important in light of Federal election news in funding water and clean energy projects. We will continue to lobby to make sure state funds are prioritized for frontline communities and the most urgently needed projects.
The failure of Props 5 and 6 to pass is disappointing, representing a setback for social and climate justice. However, we will continue to advocate for responsible funding from existing sources and join efforts to find additional funding for affordable housing and infrastructure improvements.
Prop 32, which would raise the California minimum wage from $15 to $18, is still too close to call. We are hopeful that with additional reporting, this will pass and help release pressure on the millions of Californians who struggle to make ends meet.
Measure E, a 1-cent sales tax increase for the City of San Diego to fund the city’s general fund, has not been called. Regardless of the outcome, we will continue to exert pressure on local officials to ensure that spending is directed toward climate action and equity programs.
We are grateful for each of you who worked to advance climate and social justice during this election cycle. Our efforts on Measure G included over 100 volunteers who called, canvassed, and turned out the vote. The results show us how far we have come and how far we must go to educate voters on economic and social justice and the urgency of the climate crisis.