The Calexit movement, which seeks to make California an independent nation, is gaining renewed traction following Donald Trump’s re-election and increasing political divisions in the U.S.
Marcus Ruiz Evans, the founder of Calexit, argues that California’s values differ drastically from those of the rest of the country, and that secession is the only viable solution to protect the state’s future.
“Everybody thought I was insane when I proposed this originally, and everybody said it was going to go nowhere,” said Ruiz Evans, a Fresno-based activist leading the campaign.
The idea, which originated in 2007, has gained significant public interest in recent years, especially in response to climate policies, immigration issues, and national political shifts.
Why Do Calexit Supporters Want Independence?
Key Arguments for Secession:
- California’s political and social values are vastly different from the rest of the U.S.
- The state has one of the world’s largest economies, making it capable of sustaining itself.
- Federal policies often conflict with California’s progressive stance on climate change, healthcare, and social justice.
- Concerns over federal disaster relief, especially after Trump’s response to California wildfires.
Ruiz Evans on Trump and National Politics:
“Every four years, Californians live in fear of losing access to clean air, clean water, and safe spaces for marginalized communities.”
Legal and Economic Feasibility of Calexit
Is Secession Even Possible?
- The 1869 Supreme Court ruling in Texas v. White declared that states cannot unilaterally secede.
- However, Justice Salmon P. Chase stated that secession could occur with “consent of the states.”
- Ruiz Evans believes a Republican-controlled government might be willing to vote California out due to ideological differences.
Can California Survive Economically?
- UC Berkeley political scientist Henry Brady believes California could sustain itself financially but warns of potential economic downsides.
- California is the sixth-largest economy in the world, meaning it could theoretically operate as an independent country.
- However, separation from the U.S. could create trade barriers, federal funding losses, and logistical challenges.
Brady’s Take on Economic Consequences:
“California could function on its own, but in reality, it would likely be worse off outside the U.S.”
What Would Happen If Calexit Passed?
Next Steps in the Secession Process:
- If Calexit proponents collect 546,651 signatures by July 22, 2028, the question will appear on the 2028 ballot:
“Should California leave the United States and become a free and independent country?” - If passed, it would not result in immediate secession—instead, it would establish a commission to study the feasibility of independence.
- Actual secession would require approval from Congress and state legislatures or a constitutional amendment.
Ruiz Evans on the Path Forward:
“Putting up walls between America and California would be disastrous for both economies. Cooperation would be essential.”
Opposing Views: Californians React to Calexit
Arguments Against Secession:
- California benefits from federal funding and national security protections.
- The U.S. economy would suffer without California, but California would also face economic instability.
- Many residents feel a national solution is needed, rather than separation.
Erin Gil, Morgan Hill Farmer:
“I can’t envision the U.S. without California. We are better off being a part of the country rather than apart from it.”
Gil on the Importance of Dialogue:
“Even if Calexit doesn’t happen, the conversation is important—it forces us to consider what California’s future should look like.”
