Calif. gov. decries polarized political attacks

He wants a special election in June so voters can decide whether to extend increases in the sales, income and vehicle taxes for five years, but Republican legislative leaders immediately said they would oppose any effort to place the question on the ballot.

Assemblyman Sandre Swanson, D-Oakland, a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus, said Brown struck the right tone, speaking honestly about the challenges facing the state and the nation. He noted that the last time Brown was governor, he signed legislation making King's birthday a holiday in California.

"I have to say that that national debate has become more confrontational; there's no question in my mind about that. And it has also become too campaign-oriented," Swanson said. "One of the things I like about him is he speaks candidly and truthfully about the way he feels, and I find that truly refreshing."