It’s hard to know how to read these initiatives – the arguments for and against can both be convincing, and there’s lots of money spent on ads from organizations with generic names like ‘Concerned Citizens of California.’ So: besides presenting for both sides, each participant is asked to follow the money.  Sometimes an initiative seems fair on the surface, until you find out it’s supported by one crackpot billionaire in Wichita and opposed by ten thousand honest California citizens.

Here are two simple ways to follow the money on the propositions.

• See the top 5 contributors for each Prop here: http://www.calvoter.org/voter/elections/2010/general/props/index.html
• Those top 5 can be listed by organization or committee, so sometimes it’s useful to see the individuals who contributed to the organizations.  For instance, I found that one of the contributors in support of Prop 21 is a venture capitalist and General Manager at Zynga, the company that makes Farmville.  (weird!)  You can drill down to individual contributions here: http://cal-access.ss.ca.gov/Campaign/Measures/
• Pro tip: downloading the Excel version is easier to read than the online display.

Go forth, read up, and educate your vote!

A good Proposition Party is full of vigorous debate, but remember: it’s Not About the Candidates.

While California has some important races going on, a Prop Party should be focused on the actual propositions on the ballot.  You’ve got enough to discuss without getting into political parties or the demise of gubernatorial power.

It’s easy to get sidetracked, but remember: you’re here at a Proposition Party because you want to learn more about our ballot initiatives.

You’ve only got a few weeks to register to vote!  Remember, if you want to vote on the California Propositions, you must be registered by October 18!

• Register to vote online here
• Pick up a mail-in form at your local library or post office