How California’s elites ruled the states into ruin

New York Post - Mar 15th, 2025
Open on New York Post

California's controversial housing policy, the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act (COPA), has sparked debate over property rights and elitism in progressive politics. The policy, which has not yet been passed, aims to give nonprofit housing organizations the first right to purchase rental properties, thereby restricting homeowners' ability to sell on the open market. Critics argue that this approach, championed by left-leaning elites, undermines homeowners' rights and exacerbates the housing crisis by enabling nonprofits with substantial budgets to overshadow individual buyers.

The broader context of this story highlights a growing disconnect between California's ruling class and its working citizens. The state's policies on housing, environmentalism, and economic regulation are seen as a reflection of elitist ideals that prioritize abstract notions of compassion and sustainability over practical solutions to everyday challenges faced by working families. Steve Hilton's book, "Califailure: Reversing the Ruin of America’s Worst-Run State," critiques these policies as emblematic of a government out of touch with the needs of its citizens, potentially leading to further socioeconomic disparities and disenchantment among California's middle and lower classes.

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RATING

4.4
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article presents a critical view of California's governance, focusing on issues like COVID-19 policies and environmental regulations. It is timely and addresses significant public interest topics, contributing to ongoing debates. However, the article lacks balance and transparency, relying heavily on a singular perspective without engaging with opposing viewpoints. The language is clear but occasionally hyperbolic, which can affect neutrality and comprehension. While the article has the potential to engage and provoke discussion, its impact is limited by its partisan stance and lack of diverse sources. Overall, it serves as a piece of opinion journalism rather than a comprehensive analysis of the issues discussed.

RATING DETAILS

5
Accuracy

The story makes several claims that require verification, such as California's COVID-19 response keeping public schools closed while private ones remained open. This claim is partially accurate as there were disparities in reopening policies, but the article lacks nuance in explaining the complexities involved in these decisions. Additionally, the description of the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act (COPA) is somewhat accurate, as it does propose giving nonprofits the first right to purchase properties, but the article exaggerates its impact by suggesting it would 'force' homeowners to sell, which is misleading. The claim about extreme environmentalism throttling productive activities is based on a subjective viewpoint, reflecting a criticism rather than a verifiable fact. Thus, while some claims are grounded in reality, they are often presented without sufficient evidence or context, leading to potential inaccuracies.

3
Balance

The article exhibits a clear bias against progressive policies and California's political leadership. It predominantly presents a negative view of the state's governance, describing it as 'folly and failure' without offering counterarguments or perspectives from proponents of these policies. The language used, such as 'cruel and heartless' and 'elitist,' reflects a strong partisan stance, which skews the narrative. Important perspectives, such as those of policymakers or experts who support these policies, are omitted, resulting in a one-sided portrayal that lacks balance.

6
Clarity

The language used in the article is clear and direct, making it easy to understand the author's perspective. However, the tone is highly critical and often hyperbolic, which can detract from the clarity of the argument by introducing emotional bias. The structure is logical, with a clear progression of ideas, but the lack of neutral language and reliance on loaded terms can affect comprehension and skew the reader's perception.

4
Source quality

The article is based on an excerpt from a book by Steve Hilton, a known conservative commentator and Fox News contributor. This affiliation suggests a potential bias in the source material. The article does not cite additional sources or provide evidence to substantiate its claims, relying heavily on the author's opinions and interpretations. This lack of diverse and authoritative sources undermines the reliability of the information presented.

4
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in several areas. It does not clearly disclose the methodology or evidence supporting its claims, nor does it acknowledge any potential conflicts of interest given the author's political affiliations. The basis for many of the assertions made is not explained, leaving readers without a clear understanding of how conclusions were drawn. This lack of transparency diminishes the article's credibility and makes it difficult for readers to assess the impartiality of the information.

Sources

  1. https://abc7news.com/california-schools-reopening-cdc-school-guidelines-newsom-safe-for-all/10333902/
  2. http://acecomments.mu.nu/?post=394929%3Futm_source%3Dakdart
  3. https://www.lcwlegal.com/news/governor-announces-restrictions-on-the-reopening-of-k-12-schools-for-in-person-instruction-and-issues-new-state-guidance/
  4. https://acecomments.mu.nu/?post=390325%3Futm_source%3Dpolitipage
  5. https://www.edweek.org/policy-politics/california-covid-19-closures-infringed-private-school-parents-rights-federal-court-rules/2021/07