Topic: Ballot Initiatives

A 2002 ballot initiative to repeal the Massachusetts state income tax received 45% of the vote, significantly outperforming pre-election polls. The results revealed a demographic divide between big-government proponents in urban centers like Boston and university towns versus suburban and rural residents who favor smaller government and lower spending.

Carla Howell and Michael Cloud formed the Center for Small Government to pursue bold political proposals. They targeted Massachusetts for an income tax repeal because it is one of roughly 22 states with a viable statewide ballot initiative process, despite the high costs and difficult signature requirements involved.