Even in California, which has been arguably ravaged by the Proposition 13 tax-revolt initiative, nearly three quarters of the voters still felt such ballot measures were a good thing. Despite the damage they do, or the insanity with which some are conceived, or the hidden agendas many represent, people who have access to the initiative and referendum process don't want to give it up. Many of them, liberal or conservative, are angry. He makes a passionate case for initiatives. They are, he says, a way to get elected officials to deal with issues that they otherwise lack the courage to address or the will to undertake.
Term limits is one example, spending lids another.
Our own public disclosure commission, which daylights campaign contributions, was established by ballot measure. Initiatives are a way to police the pols. And to let them know the will of the people. Look at I-695, which at the moment has been overturned by a judge. Even an impending initiative can get action, Eyman says.