In a remarkable development that is reverberating through both state and national political arenas, California has officially embarked on the initial steps toward potentially establishing itself as an independent nation. A ballot initiative proposing that the Golden State secede from the United States and create a sovereign country has been authorized to collect signatures, with the ultimate aim of appearing on the November 2028 ballot. If successful, it will pose a straightforward yet monumental question to California voters: “Should California leave the United States and become a free and independent country?”

This initiative, unveiled on January 23, 2025, by California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley N. Weber, signifies the commencement of a legal process that could lead to the unimaginable: the disintegration of the United States. The initiative has successfully navigated its initial obstacle, with the Attorney General preparing the legal title and summary for inclusion on the petitions. With this phase completed, petition circulators are now authorized to collect signatures throughout the state to place the matter on the ballot.

Should the proposition reach the 2028 ballot, it would require California voters to determine whether they wish for their state to remain part of the United States or to separate and establish its own independent nation. For the initiative to succeed, a majority of California voters must engage, with at least 55% voting “yes” to secede. Although this vote would not instantly alter California’s status or its relationship with the federal government, it would represent a significant “vote of no confidence” in the United States, reflecting the people’s desire to pursue independence.

Supporters of the initiative contend that California, given its substantial population and flourishing economy, possesses the resources and independence necessary to function as a sovereign nation. The proposal encompasses the establishment of a commission tasked with evaluating California’s feasibility as an independent entity, which would investigate various aspects ranging from financial issues to international diplomacy. Nevertheless, the financial implications of the initiative are significant. The state has projected that the preliminary costs associated with the election, in addition to the funding required for the commission on national sovereignty, will exceed $10 million, with an extra $2 million each year needed to sustain the commission.

The advocate behind this ambitious proposal, Marcus Evans, now confronts the task of gathering 546,651 signatures from registered voters—5% of the total votes cast in the 2022 gubernatorial election—to qualify the initiative for the ballot. He has until July 22, 2025, to collect these signatures and present them to the county election authorities.

Although the initiative is still in its early stages, it has already ignited vigorous discussions across the political landscape. For some, the idea of California withdrawing from the Union is an exhilarating possibility—an opportunity for the state to seize control of its future without interference from Washington, D.C. Conversely, others view it as an imprudent and perilous fantasy that threatens the cohesion and strength of the United States.

California, characterized by its liberal politics and progressive policies, has frequently found itself at odds with the federal government. From disputes over immigration policies to environmental regulations, the state’s leaders have often clashed with Washington. However, a complete separation from the Union presents an entirely different scenario.

As California advances with this ambitious initiative, it is yet to be determined if this secession attempt will acquire the necessary momentum to reach the ballot. However, with substantial financial and political support, this movement is bound to keep generating discussion as it approaches a critical moment in 2028. Regardless of whether California opts to separate or stay within the United States, one fact is undeniable: this discourse will persist in capturing headlines for many years ahead.