The California Governor, Gavin Newsom, is working to prevent various issues from being decided by the state's voters, particularly related to tax increases and penalties for theft and drug crimes. Newsom is currently suing to keep a ballot initiative off the November ballot that aims to make it harder for California to raise taxes. The initiative proposes that voters must approve any new tax hikes and prevent disguising new taxes as fees or fines. Additionally, there is an effort to block another ballot initiative that seeks to increase penalties for theft and drug crimes. Newsom's actions are met with opposition from business groups and taxpayer advocates who are discontent with the state's high taxes, indicating a defensive stance in the face of potential voter backlash.