Write a paper analyzing a California Proposition that
appeared on the state ballot from 2000 to 2016. This assignment should give you a deeper
understanding of direct democracy in California and the political forces behind its use.Required Components
o Most important: Your paper should follow a chronological narrative, starting from the beginning
of the issue to post-election aftermath. Good flow is essential to a good paper.
o Description: Provide a brief but specific summary of how the proposition would have altered
existing law or the state constitution.
o Background: Describe the political background that prompted the ballot proposition to be
qualified and placed on the ballot.
o Supporters/Opponents: Identify who were the major supporters and opponents of the proposition
and describe their respective positions. Dont just list groups and people from the ballot statement.
This is not a pro/con paper about the issue, so spend more time on the people than the arguments.
o Campaign: Discuss the election strategy and resulting campaign for both sides. This could include
campaign contributions, polling, newspaper editorials, etc.
o Results: Present the electoral results, including regional, demographic, and/or other forms of
electoral analysis. Also, provide some analytical insight into why the proposition passed or failed.
Since this is a political science course, this is an essential component of the paper.
o Broader Analysis: What were the political consequences of the propositions failure or passage?
How did the proposition alter the political and fiscal climate in California?
How to Choose a Good Proposition
o Stay away from bonds and other legislative-approved propositions that have limited opposition.
o The more controversial and well-known the ballot measure, the more material you will find.
o Proposition 8 in 2008 is too much to tackle in your paper. Select another ballot measure.
o Focus on the proposition, and dont get distracted by the broader issue behind the proposition.
o Remember, your proposition must have appeared on the ballot from 2000 to 2016.
o Brilliant comment from a student in 2021: Don’t write the essay that you have the most interest
in. Write the one that is easiest to get an A on, these maybe one in the same but not always.
