Topic > Compare and Contrast California and Texas - 806

When it comes to discussing California and Texas, the two largest and most populous states in the country, there are many common factors that they share between them, however there are many more differences . Likewise, Texas and California both have sunny climates, diverse populations, long coastlines, and are well known for their oil resources. However, the contrast is in the governance of the two states. Likewise, Texas is run by “makers” and California is run by “takers.” When it comes to culture, Texas and California are opposites. Texas is a state with a mix of traditionalist-individualist culture. It is a state based on low taxes and poor provision of social services. Economic interests dominate policies and the main focus is the economy, rather than social interests. In California the dominant culture is moralistic. California is known for its significant number of unions and people believe in promoting the public good. Taxes are much higher due to dominant democratic views and everyone is expected to contribute their share to ensure the country's success. One of the most glaring problems in California lies in deficits that are caused by no other explanation than irresponsible spending. . California is all about taxes, and they will raise them as much as they can and on whom they can. According to Chuck DeVore in “Texas vs. California,” Governor Brown is a proponent of higher taxes, costing $6.9 billion a year, tax increase plans were devised by state government employee unions, those of whom have no problem with spend tens of millions of dollars during elections to ensure they stay in power. From these facts it is justifiable... middle of paper... Texas and California are opposites in almost every sense. Texas' state debt is much higher than California's. California went from being the state with the most immigrants to the state with the most people fleeing. Now Texas has taken the title of the country with the largest number of immigrants, mainly due to the economic boom. California has the most powerful public employee unions in the nation, yet union membership in Texas is insignificant. California has oil and gas reserves, but knows little about how to use its resources. In contrast, Texas is very successful in developing its own oil and gas reserves. California has banned fracking, while Texas encourages it. In conclusion, then, although both states have similar resource advantages, each has taken a completely different direction, and the different effects on their respective economies show.