California Governor Jerry Brown remains optimistic about his negotiations with the Republicans regarding the $9.3 billion tax referendum, which is one of the main points of his budget proposal. The Democrats in the Legislature has already slashed $12.5 billion from the budget.
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Governor Brown wants to hold a special election so that higher taxes and fees can be approved. Four Republican votes are required so that the ballot will push through. At present the Republicans remain solid with their stand not to sign anything with regards to the tax extension vote.
The Democrat governor won on a promise that he could balance the budget as the state faces $26.6 billion budget deficit through June 2012. The unions are the second largest source of funds during Governor Brown’s 2010 campaign. They gave $5 million, which is 12 percent of the total campaign contributions.
Governor Brown held private meetings with several lawmakers from both parties. This is his way of persuading Democrats and at least four Republicans to vote for his tax plan. Moreover, five Republican Senators met with Governor Brown and have an impression that they would back the move for referendum if the governor would impose limits on public pensions, curb on spending and amend environmental regulations.
