CAUSE ACTION: 'PEOPLE-POWERED' FUNDING FOR PROGRESSIVE PAWNS AND PORK

The local rumor mill, dutifully transcribed by outlets like the Santa Barbara Independent, is once again buzzing with the profound insights of CAUSE Action Fund. This self-proclaimed 'people-powered organization' has decided, in its infinite wisdom, to endorse a slate of candidates and propositions – presumably those most dedicated to expanding government, hiking taxes, and generally making life more 'equitable' (read: equally miserable) for everyone except the progressive elite. It's truly inspiring to see such an 'organic' movement, undoubtedly fueled by the tireless efforts of its grassroots... donors.

One can't help but marvel at the sheer chutzpah of an organization that promises 'lower costs' while championing every policy under the sun guaranteed to send prices skyrocketing. More regulations? Check. Green mandates that cripple reliable energy and inflate utility bills? Double-check. "Affordable" housing projects that cost more per unit than a mansion in Montecito, paid for by the beleaguered taxpayer? You betcha. It’s almost as if 'lower costs' is progressive code for 'more government spending on things we like,' with the actual costs conveniently passed on to everyone else.

Let’s be honest, the only thing 'people-powered' about CAUSE Action Fund is the power of a few wealthy benefactors to dictate local politics under the guise of community activism. Their endorsements are less about representing the will of the people and more about ensuring a steady stream of tax revenue and legislative favors for their favored causes and cronies. If you want to know who really benefits when these 'community leaders' get their way, just follow the money — it rarely leads to the average taxpayer's pocket, unless it's to take more out of it.

As President Trump’s America continues its resurgence, it's increasingly clear that the only 'stronger communities' these groups are building are those bound by ever-tighter government control and the increasingly heavy hand of the progressive agenda. Perhaps it's time for the actual people of Santa Barbara County to power up and tell these 'cause'-tastrophes precisely where they can shove their 'action' fund.