U.s. Taxpayers Revolt Wins Support At Polls (Press, 10 November 1978)

On 10 November 1978, reports from the United States indicated that taxpayers appeared to be the winners in a series of election-day referendums, while gamblers faced significant losses. Various states addressed issues such as discrimination against homosexuals and smoking regulations during the elections. In California, a measure intended to restrict smoking in public places was defeated, leading to a victory for smokers. Conversely, a proposal to allow casino gambling along Miami Beach in Florida was overwhelmingly rejected, disappointing the gambling community. Tax limitation measures were on the ballot in 16 states, reflecting the influence of California's recently passed Proposition 13 tax-cut proposal. As votes continued to be counted, it seemed that most of these tax limitation measures would succeed. Homosexual rights experienced a mixed outcome. In California, a measure that called for the dismissal of openly homosexual teachers faced a heavy defeat, celebrated by homosexuals and their allies at a Los Angeles hotel. In Washington State, voters declined to repeal a law that ensured equal rights for homosexuals. However, in Dade County, Florida—the political stronghold of anti-homosexual activist Anita Bryant—a proposal to prevent discrimination against homosexuals in jobs and housing did not pass. Voters in South Dakota rejected a referendum that sought to introduce stringent anti-obscenity laws, including prison sentences for selling pornographic materials. Additionally, Mississippi voters decided against a proposal to overturn a law that prevents individuals convicted of duelling from voting or holding public office. In Oregon, there was strong support for restoring the death penalty for certain crimes, with voters approving this measure by a two-to-one ratio. Similarly, Californians approved the expansion of the list of crimes punishable by death with a three-to-one margin. A noteworthy outcome from Oregon was the approval of a plan allowing denture makers to fit false teeth, which garnered support from 78 per cent of voters despite significant campaigning by the American Dental Association. Overall, the midterm elections revealed trends that could influence the future political landscape. Although the Democratic Party maintained control of Congress, it lost some ground by losing three Senate seats and about a dozen House seats, while also giving up five governorships. Despite these losses, the overall results were seen as signalling stability in the political balance as both parties began to prepare for the upcoming Presidential and Congressional contests in 1980.

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