Description: What will California look like by the middle of the twenty-first century? Change is occurring in the state at a breathtaking pace. The explosive population growth of the past twenty years is expected to continue, fueled largely by immigration. By mid-century, Latinos will become the state's dominant ethnic group. As the ethnic balance of power shifts, so will the regional balance of power -- away from the urban coastal areas and toward the rapidly growing regions of the Central Valley, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. The state will face many extraordinary challenges. Yet today most Californians believe that their elected officials are unable to develop effective public policies.

Mark Baldassare examines the powerful undercurrents -- economic, demographic, and political -- shaping California at this critical juncture in its history. He focuses on three trends that are profoundly affecting the social and political landscape of the state: political distrust, racial and ethnic change, and regional diversity. These trends will make it increasingly difficult to achieve consensus on major public policy issues involving California's future. Baldassare discusses the complexities of this situation and offers a series of substantive recommendations for how California can come to terms with the unprecedented challenges it faces.

California in the New Millennium also contains a wealth of statistical information on how the state's residents view the economy, population growth, and governance, and voices their opinions and concerns about key issues such as education, welfare, and immigration. With its accessibly written analysis and up-to-date statistical information, California in the NewMillennium is essential reading for everyone concerned about the future of California and the future of the nation in the new millennium.

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