John Chiang spoke to the Fresno Rotary in a noontime address in his official capacity as the state’s treasurer. But, he made sure to put over his accomplishments as if someone who is running for higher office. Which he is. For governor in 2018.
Chiang spoke to the weekly Rotary gathering at the Cornerstone Conference Center downtown. The half-hour address covered the state’s finances during his political career. Like with the national economy, the state’s tanked during the recession of 2009. Junk bond status made borrowing more expensive.
Things fortunately have improved for the state’s finances, but not so much for the middle class. “What we are witnessing today is a slow deterioration, and it’s a slow deterioration, of the middle class. It is because our wage increases, up until recently, have not gone up as quickly as the cost of living. When you add the California factor, it makes it much more difficult, because we are a high cost state.”
He also discussed income distribution among Californians. “We have extraordinary income and wealth inequality in the state. I’m not trying to turn that in political terms. If we want California to be prosperous for the future, we have to make sure that we rebuild the opportunities for all Californians. Especially those who are middle and lower income.”
Chiang also talked about the proposed wall on the Mexican border without using the term wall or mentioning President Donald Trump. “Mexico is California’s largest trading partner. To put up any roadblocks in regards to the efficient flows of commerce, is going to have a huge impact on state revenues and the economy and the labor force of the state of California. So it is critical that you continue to advocate and work with your representatives in Washington, D.C. so that we can have strong positive immigration policies that benefit all of California.”
He also avoided Trump’s name when discussing his recent meeting with Chinese leadership. Chiang mentioned that Chinese tourist spend up to $8,000 when they visit America.
Other topics covered by Chiang included collecting taxes, modernizing technology in the treasurer’s office and highlighting the billions of dollars’ worth of audits performed while he was state controller (2007-15).
Curiosity drives David Taub.
The award-winning journalist might be shy, but feels mighty with a recorder in his hand. He doesn't see it his job to "hold public officials accountable," but does see it to provide readers (and voters) the information needed to make intelligent choices.
Taub has been honored with several writing awards from the California News Publishers Association. He's just happy to have his stories read.
Joining GV Wire in 2016, Taub covers politics, government and elections, mainly in the Fresno/Clovis area. He also writes columns about local eateries (Appetite for Fresno), pro wrestling (Off the Bottom Rope), and media (Media Man).
Prior to joining the online news source, Taub worked as a radio producer for KMJ and PowerTalk 96.7 in Fresno. He also worked as an assignment editor for KCOY-TV in Santa Maria, California, and KSEE-TV in Fresno. He has also worked behind the scenes for several sports broadcasts, including the NCAA basketball tournament, and the Super Bowl.
When not spending time with his family, Taub loves to officially score Fresno Grizzlies games.
Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Taub is a die-hard Giants and 49ers fan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with dual degrees in communications and political science. Go Blue!
You can contact David at 559-492-4037 or at Send an Email
