What was the primary motivation behind Hiram Johnson's push for direct democracy reforms like the initiative, referendum, and recall in early 20th-century California?

A plan to make the process of passing laws much faster and more efficient for politicians.

A desire to increase the power of the federal government over state politics.

The widespread control of the state government by the powerful Southern Pacific Railroad.

A belief that voters were not educated enough to make important political decisions.

The reforms introduced by Hiram Johnson in California were a direct response to the excessive political power held by which entity?

A coalition of East Coast bankers

Foreign governments seeking trade advantages

Powerful agricultural labor unions

To expand the railroad network throughout the state

To reduce the political influence of the Southern Pacific Railroad

To lower state taxes for large corporations and businesses

To secure federal funding for new irrigation projects