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Tech Elite Flee California Over Proposed 'Wealth Seizure' Ballot Measure
Billionaires and tech leaders warn the measure could 'literally destroy' companies and the industry in the state
Jan. 27, 2026 at 8:31pm
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A proposed ballot measure in California that would legalize asset seizures targeting billionaires has sparked an exodus of tech leaders from the state. Over 20 billionaires interviewed say they are developing exit plans, with many already purchasing property out of state and opening offices elsewhere. They warn the measure, seen as written by 'communists', could 'literally destroy' companies and the entire tech industry in California.
Why it matters
The tech industry is a major economic driver for California, employing tens of thousands and generating over $1 trillion in value. An exodus of billionaires and tech companies could devastate the state's economy and tax base. The measure also highlights growing political tensions between the industry and the state's progressive policies.
The details
The ballot measure was proposed by California's largest healthcare union to address a budget crisis in the state's Medicaid program. However, the billionaires interviewed believe the true purpose is to 'humiliate them, disrupt their personal lives, and hurt their companies.' They say the measure's language around 'control' could potentially bankrupt private companies. While the measure is marketed as targeting only billionaires, the tech leaders believe wealth taxes will ultimately expand to target all 'wealthy' Californians.
- The ballot measure was proposed in late 2025.
- Many billionaires say they have already left California or are in the process of purchasing property and opening offices out of state.
The players
Waymo
An American autonomous driving company and a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.
Walker Reed Quinn
A 45-year-old San Francisco resident who has a history of vandalism and was out on bail for prior cases related to Waymo vehicles.
Rainbow Grocery Cooperative
A local food natural foods grocery store, organized as an employee-owned co-op and born out of a 1970s grassroots natural food movement calling for access to nutritious and organic food.
Gordon Edgar
A 31-year employee who oversees Rainbow's cheese counter.
What’s next
The proposed ballot measure still needs to go through the signature gathering process and be approved for the ballot. If it makes it to the ballot, a legal battle is expected as tech leaders vow to fight it.
The takeaway
The proposed 'wealth seizure' ballot measure in California has sparked an exodus of tech billionaires and leaders from the state, who warn it could 'literally destroy' the industry. This highlights the growing political tensions between the tech elite and the state's progressive policies, as well as the potential economic fallout if the industry abandons California.
