C
alifornia landlords have scored a significant victory with the passage of Proposition 34, which is expected to pass by a slim majority. This outcome marks a major defeat for AIDS Healthcare Foundation President Michael Weinstein and his efforts to repeal the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act through multiple ballot initiatives. The proposition's success comes after California voters rejected AHF's previous attempt to challenge Costa-Hawkins with Proposition 33.

    Weinstein has conceded the fight, but not without criticizing the influence of billionaires in politics. He stated that the defeats prove "if billionaires spend more than $170 million lying and confusing voters, they are virtually guaranteed to win." The Yes on 34 campaign aimed to prevent AHF from using its prescription drug revenues to fund campaigns, which has been a contentious issue.

    The California Apartment Association (CAA) is relieved by the passage of Prop. 34, as it has helped fight off AHF-backed ballot proposals in previous years. The CAA's CEO, Tom Bannon, stated that the goal of Prop. 34 was to prevent the "blatant misuse of public dollars." AHF has already attempted to challenge the legality of Prop. 34 in a lawsuit, but it was dismissed over the summer.

    Weinstein remains committed to fighting for rent control in California, saying "the battle for justice for renters marches on." However, this latest defeat marks a significant setback for his efforts and may signal a shift in strategy for AHF's involvement in politics.