And a few decades ago, the state built incredible large-scale public works to capture, store and deliver fresh water to the citizens as well as numerous power plants and transmission lines to assure a reliable supply of electricity. All that is gone now — just a malaise that we cannot get anything permitted or burned. Nobody proposes any new public works.
How was it that a state with low taxes was able to finance all these grand public works that led to a wonderful life? How is it now with sky-high taxes there is no money to be had anywhere to build anything?
It was a state run by business friendly, Republican promulgated regulations; and, at its core, was free market and Constitutionally sound. Then, Democrats (socialist/communist factotums to the CTA, SEIU, and Mafia) took over to transform California into a workers' paradise. Remember, from each according to his ability, to each according to his need? The ability for the majority of Californians to to extend a clutching hand, and their needs are extensive. In the barrios of LA and the lush spas of San Francisco, the voters all pull the donkeys tail on election day.
Did California do that? Or are you thinking of the giant federal projects dating back to the 1930s?