Is Stockton California a Liberal City?
Stockton, California is a mid-sized city in the heart of California’s Central Valley. It is the 13th largest city in the state and the fifth largest in the San Joaquin Valley. It has a population of around 310,000 people and is known for its agricultural production and for being a center for distribution and logistics. But is Stockton a liberal city?
History of Stockton
Stockton was founded in 1849 and quickly grew into an important trading and transportation center for the region. It was the terminus of the first transcontinental railway in the United States, and it was a major port for trade with the Pacific Rim. Stockton has a rich history of immigration, with people from all over the world coming to work in its bustling economy.
Political Landscape of Stockton
Stockton has long been considered a Democratic stronghold. The city is a part of San Joaquin County, which has consistently voted for Democratic presidential candidates since 2000. In 2016, Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton won San Joaquin County with 57.7% of the vote, compared to Republican candidate Donald Trump’s 37.7%.
At the state level, Stockton is represented by two Democratic state senators and three Democratic state assembly members. Stockton is also represented by a Democratic member of Congress, Jerry McNerney.
Liberal Policies in Stockton
Stockton has adopted a number of liberal policies in recent years. In 2014, the city passed a minimum wage ordinance that requires employers to pay employees a minimum of $12 per hour, with an annual increase tied to the Consumer Price Index. In 2018, the city passed a “Ban the Box” ordinance, which prevents employers from asking about criminal history on job applications. Stockton has also adopted a “sanctuary city” policy, which prevents local law enforcement from inquiring about immigration status.
Conclusion
Stockton, California is a mid-sized city in the heart of California’s Central Valley. It is a Democratic stronghold, and has adopted a number of liberal policies in recent years. While Stockton is not as liberal as some of California’s larger cities, it is still considered a liberal city.