In June 2011, a random sample of 412 Californians came together in the city of Torrance for California's first-ever Deliberative Poll. MacNeil-Lehrer Productions' BY THE PEOPLE: "What's Next California?" documents this unprecedented event bringing Californians into the conversation about whether California's governance can be improved, and if so, how.
Deliberative Poll Affirms Californians’ Desire For Change
Read the complete article and learn the results of California's first-ever Deliberative Poll.
Hosted by Judy Woodruff, the documentary follows a microcosm of the state working together to better understand and share their views on a range of issues including legislative representation, fiscal and tax policy, whether local governments should have more autonomy and control over public services, and possible ways the initiative process could be modified to address the changing economic environment.
BY THE PEOPLE: "What's Next California?" will also present an unusual opportunity for policy makers and advocates to observe a deep discussion among a diverse group of Californians.
While data are still preliminary and full results are still forthcoming, initial analysis found strong demand for greater transparency and accountability, a clear lack of trust in the current system and a strong desire for solutions. Initial results also showed an unwillingness to abdicate control to the Legislature, but a recognition that the Legislature needs tools to solve problems.
"What's Next California?" in on Twitter - follow @NextCAorg.
