California’s Calexit Initiative Clears Signature Gathering Milestone

California's independence movement, known as 'Calexit', is gaining momentum as advocates have received official approval to gather signatures for a ballot initiative that could allow residents to vote on secession from the United States in 2028. The initiative requires at least 546,651 signatures by July 22, 2025, and aims to pose the question: 'Should California leave the United States and become a free and independent country?' Proponents, led by Marcus Ruiz Evans, argue that the initiative reflects growing discontent with federal governance and seeks to empower Californians to determine their own destiny. If successful, the initiative would create a commission to assess California's viability as an independent nation, but it does not intend to change the state's current government structure immediately. The movement has historical roots dating back to 2016 but is viewed as more strategically viable now due to shifting political sentiments. Financial challenges loom, with estimates suggesting the process could cost upwards of $10 million.