The saying has been quipped for generations that people in the United States generally speak “with their wallets”. Indeed, there may be no more powerful a method of public expression in the modern sense in America’s hyper-consumerist, capitalist society than the action of deciding not to financially support certain corporations, causes, or institutions. In the sad reality of modern American life, political polarization has gripped the nation and affected nearly every aspect of ordinary life; business in every industry, organizations and professional sports teams, leagues, and celebrities at large all have entered the political discourse. As the cultural and fiscal decline of America continues, people are also speaking increasingly with their “feet”; that is, individuals are moving to states that appear to be less politically radical, more conservative, and economically more affordable and less expensive. In the state of California, a mass exodus from the far-left state continues. Boasting some of the most restrictive business and regulatory policies, highest taxes, and most radical leftist educational curriculums in the country the state has become a failing cesspool of progressivism. Many working class families can no longer afford to live in the state, and despite the beautiful weather have fled in droves. In 2023 alone, it is estimated that some 75,000 people have already fled the Golden State. This is now the fourth consecutive year that the state has lost population; the trend has been ongoing since the year 2019.
People all across America are struggling financially. Things have become extremely expensive, and inflation has crushed the average consumer. 60% of the country is estimated to be surviving on a paycheck to paycheck basis. Additionally, housing costs have spiraled out of control, and average income families often can no longer afford the cost of owning a home. A recent report by Bank of America claimed soaring housing costs are likely to continue to be the norm until at least the year 2026.