California has officially approved a new initiative, "Calexit," that seeks to begin the process of gathering signatures for a referendum on the state's potential secession from the United States.
This move, spearheaded by political activist Marcus Evans, is inspired by the UK's "Brexit" referendum and aims to put the question to voters: "Should California become an independent nation?"
Evans, who has previously attempted to rally support for the initiative, believes that now is the right time for "Calexit," citing a more favorable political climate than when he first launched the movement in 2016.
The proposal would require participation from more than 50% of registered voters in the state, with 55% voting in favor by July 22 of this year.
If successful, the initiative will lead to the formation of a 20-member commission tasked with exploring the possibility of California's independence and publishing a report by 2028.
While the initiative will not directly result in California's secession, it would mark the beginning of a "vote of no confidence" in the United States.
The proposal also includes provisions to remove the American flag from government buildings in California, symbolizing the state's potential move toward sovereignty.
The cost of the project is estimated at $10 million, with an additional $2 million annually required to run the commission.