California a ‘broken state': Governor hopeful Stephen Cloobeck
Share and Follow


() California enjoys the title of world’s fifth-largest economy, but gubernatorial candidate Stephen Cloobeck concedes the state is not very affordable for many residents.

“I fixed the most broken of businesses in my career, and California is a broken state,” Cloobeck, former chairman and CEO of Diamond Resorts, told “ Now” on Friday.

His ideas to turn things around include revamping and simplifying California’s entertainment tax credit program to “solidify our greatest export.” Cloobeck said California is being eclipsed by some of its competitors, including the state of Georgia.

The 63-year-old, who frequently appeared on the CBS reality TV show “Undercover Boss,” is one of several Democrats expected to run for California governor in 2026. The field may include former Vice President Kamala Harris, who is said to be weighing a run.

The economy of California, with a gross domestic product of more than $3.5 trillion, ranks fifth in the world, behind the United States, China, Germany and Japan. Cloobeck said tariffs hurt consumers with cost add-ons.

“If we’ve got these great worldwide economies, and I believe in free trade, why don’t we sit down with our partners and say, ‘Look, we’ve got a little trade imbalance here. Let’s see if we can find another way of working it out and equalizing it,’” he said.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Chicago mayor says Trump's troop deployment is about power, not safety

Chicago’s Mayor Claims Trump’s Troop Deployment Prioritizes Power Over Safety

CHICAGO (WGN) With the National Guard en route to Chicago, Mayor Brandon…
Trump admin announces fewest border apprehensions since 1970

Trump admin announces fewest border apprehensions since 1970

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! The Trump administration has…
Two years after Hamas’ Oct. 7 massacre, 48 hostages — dead and alive — remain in captivity

Two years after Hamas’ Oct. 7 massacre, 48 hostages — dead and alive — remain in captivity

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Two years after Hamas…
Jackine L. Austin ID'd as driver killed after piece of metal crashes through windshield on Dan Ryan, officials say

Jackine L. Austin Identified as Driver Fatally Struck by Metal Debris Through Windshield on Dan Ryan Expressway, Authorities Confirm

ByABC7 Chicago Digital Team Tuesday, October 7, 2025 11:51AM Illinois State Police…
Ex-FBI Director James Comey due in court for Justice Department case

Former FBI Director James Comey Set to Appear in Court for Justice Department Case

() Former FBI Director James Comey is due in court Wednesday for…
Mom ignites chaos on plane as she refuses to let passengers disembark

Mother Causes Commotion on Plane by Blocking Passengers from Exiting

An entitled passenger triggered chaos on a plane when she blocked the…
Ominous warning for humanity as birds adopt 'unsettling' behavior

“Concerning Signs for Humanity as Birds Display ‘Unusual’ Behavior”

Birds throughout the US have adopted a disturbing habit that could have…
Madrid building collapse leaves four people dead

Four Individuals Killed in Madrid Structure Collapse

Spanish emergency personnel have retrieved the remains of four individuals from the…