Political columnist Dan Walters addressed a packed audience at Santa Barbara’s Lobero Theatre on Thursday night, offering a sweeping review of California’s political history, current challenges, and future outlook.
Key Issues Shaping California
Walters identified six persistent problems that have plagued the state for the past 15 years: a housing shortage, a power shortage, inadequate water storage, a looming gasoline shortage, poor K‑12 reading and math scores, and homelessness. He argued that these issues trace back to decisions made during his own tenure covering California politics since 1975.
Historical Context and Missed Infrastructure
According to Walters, the period from the mid‑1970s through the late‑1980s marked a turning point when “post‑World War II California” gave way to a new era. He noted that the baby boom that began in 1946 faded, leading policymakers to believe population growth would stall and to halt construction of highways, schools, dams, and canals.
Contrary to that belief, California’s population grew by six million people—a 24 % increase—between 1980 and 1990. Walters said the state “regret[s]” not restarting infrastructure projects, a lapse he linked to today’s crowded highways, power shortages, and water scarcity.
Walters likewise highlighted a net loss of about 200,000 residents over the past decade, noting that many of those leaving are working‑class adults without college degrees, which strains local labor markets in trades and services.
Why the Issues Matter
He warned that without decisive action on education, transportation, water, and electricity, California “cannot survive in the long run” and its promise may remain unfulfilled. Walters emphasized the need for civic leadership that can hold elected officials accountable, even to the point of removing them from office if they fail to act.
Looking ahead, Walters suggested that continued inaction could deepen California’s challenges, while heightened civic pressure might compel legislators to prioritize infrastructure and social services. He also remarked that Governor Gavin Newsom’s national profile—evidenced by discussions of his potential 2028 presidential run—remains detached from state‑level policy debates, likening the race to a “beauty contest” where substantive issues receive little attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who organized and funded Dan Walters’ talk?
The event was hosted by Spotlight Santa Barbara and sponsored by Noozhawk, the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, American Riviera Bank, Nicholson & Schwartz CPAs, and Pence Vineyards.
What six major issues did Walters say have persisted for 15 years?
Walters listed a housing shortage, a power shortage, inadequate water storage, a looming gasoline shortage, poor K‑12 reading and math scores, and homelessness.
Which historical era did Walters describe as pivotal for California’s development?
He pointed to the period between the mid‑1970s and the end of the 1980s, describing it as the transition from “post‑World War II California” to a new version of the state.
How do you think California’s leaders and citizens can address the infrastructure gaps highlighted by Walters?
