Walters: State budget deal cooks the books again, masking structural' deficit
Briefly

The article discusses California's 2025-26 budget, which legislators and the governor claim is a response to external economic pressures, notably federal tariffs. However, critics argue that the issues stem from overspending that began after a predicted $100 billion surplus in 2022, leading to increased expenditures. The budget has seen revised shortfalls escalating from $11 billion to $21 billion, despite attempts to cut services. Overall, the budget scenario paints a picture of mismanagement overshadowed by claims of external economic causes.
Legislative leaders present the 2025-26 budget as a heroic response to external financial issues, but critics argue it masks overspending trends.
The budget shortfall is attributed to federal tariff policies, rising program costs, and unexpected disasters, which some view as a convenient excuse.
In truth, California's financial woes stem from a history of overspending, with Newsom's surplus projections leading to unsustainable budget growth.
The revised budget now anticipates a $21 billion deficit, following previously underestimated revenue projections, raising concerns about fiscal responsibility.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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