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Essay / Compare and Contrast California and Texas - 806
When it comes to discussions about California and Texas, the two largest and most populous states in the country, there are many common factors that they share, but there are many more differences. Similarly, Texas and California both have sunny climates, diverse populations, a long coastline, and are well known for their oil resources. However, the contrast lies in the governance of the two states. Likewise, Texas is run by “makers” and California by “takers.” When it comes to culture, Texas and California are opposites. Texas is a state with a mix of traditionalist and individualist cultures. It is a state based on low taxes and few social services. Business interests dominate policies and the main focus is economics rather than social interests. In California, the dominant culture is moralistic. California is known for its large number of unions and its people believe in promoting the public good. Taxes are much higher due to prevailing democratic views, and everyone is expected to contribute to the success of the country. One of the most apparent problems in California are deficits that are caused by no explanation other than irresponsible spending. . In California, it's all about taxes, and they will raise taxes as much as they can and on whomever they can. According to Chuck DeVore in “Texas vs. California,” Governor Brown supports raising taxes, which would cost $6.9 billion per year. Tax hike plans are being drawn up by government and employee unions, who have no problem spending tens of millions of dollars during elections to ensure they stay in power. Based on these facts, it makes sense... middle of paper ... Texas and California are opposites in almost every way. Texas' state debt is much higher than California's. California went from being the state with the most immigration to the state where the most people were fleeing. Today, Texas has become the country with the highest immigration, mainly due to the economic boom. California has the strongest public employee unions in the country, but the number of unions in Texas is insignificant. California has oil and gas reserves, but knows little about how to use their resources. In contrast, Texas is very successful in developing its oil and gas reserves. California prohibits fracking, while Texas encourages it. In conclusion, although both states have similar resource advantages, each has taken a completely different direction and the different effects on their economies show.